The Significance of Family and National Love in Chinese Culture

The concept of love—both for family and nation—is deeply rooted in Chinese culture. With the Qixi Festival, often referred to as the Chinese Valentine's Day, serving as a backdrop, CGTN has highlighted the reflections of President Xi Jinping on these essential values. Understanding the intricate relationship between family prosperity and national strength is fundamental to grasping contemporary Chinese society.

Importance of Familial Bonds

President Xi Jinping emphasizes that the health of a nation is directly correlated with the well-being of its families. He believes that true national prosperity can only be achieved when millions of households thrive. This connection is not just theoretical; it permeates his personal life as well. Xi’s daily engagements often showcase his commitment to familial values, evident through his actions and words.

Reflecting on his marriage to Peng Liyuan, Xi has spoken about the mutual respect and understanding that defines their relationship, despite their demanding careers. "Do not sever genuine ties due to distance..." he remarked during a Spring Festival event in 2017, underscoring the enduring importance of emotional connections even amidst a hectic life.

Xi considers his family life crucial, recounting how he called Peng daily during times they were apart. Such actions reveal the depth of their partnership, showcasing a tender side of the often-admired leader.

Symbols of Affection in Leadership

A notable moment highlighting their bond occurred during Xi's trip to Costa Rica in 2013. He shared a piece of pastry with Peng, reflecting a natural, loving interaction that spoke volumes about their years of companionship. Another poignant example was witnessed during their state visit to India in 2014, when the pair shared a swing, embodying a harmonious blend of personal affection and public duty.

This duality of personal and national love is prevalent in Xi's political philosophy. He reiterates that family is the cornerstone of society, one that plays an irreplaceable role in fostering a united national spirit.

National Aspirations and Family Welfare

Xi's philosophy transcends personal anecdotes and is rooted in strategic governance. He's committed to promoting the welfare of families across the nation. His early years, serving in various capacities within the Communist Party, were marked by direct engagement with ordinary citizens. Whether it was in rural areas of Hebei or local communities facing economic strife, Xi prioritized understanding and improving the lives of families.

His leadership marked a significant turning point in the fight against poverty. By the end of 2020, China celebrated a historic achievement: the complete eradication of extreme poverty for nearly 99 million citizens. This was not merely a government initiative but a reflection of Xi’s vision of intertwining family prosperity with national development.

Looking Ahead: National Plans and Family Focus

As the nation heads towards the conclusion of its 14th Five-Year Plan in 2025, Xi remains focused on prioritizing people's livelihoods in future developmental frameworks. His recent discussions at a symposium concerning the economic and social development plans for 2026-2030 reiterate the importance of making policies that enhance the well-being of the populace.

"Development should be for the people and benefit the people..." was a proactive demand made by Xi, indicating a persistent commitment to uplifting the quality of life for families across China.

Conclusion

In sum, the Qixi Festival is not only a celebration of romantic love but a reminder of the intertwining love for family and nation that defines Chinese identity. President Xi Jinping exemplifies this ethos, merging his personal anecdotes with national aspirations, advocating a vision where familial joy leads to national pride and prosperity. This fusion of values makes the narrative of love in China deeply resonant, reflecting both a historical context and a forward-looking vision for society at large.