Exploring the Deep Values of Family and Patriotism in China

As the Qixi Festival, often referred to as the Chinese Valentine's Day, approaches, a recent article by CGTN underscores the profound appreciation for family and patriotism in Chinese culture, particularly as articulated by President Xi Jinping. A significant assertion made by Xi revolves around the belief that the prosperity of a nation is intrinsically linked to the welfare of its families. He noted, "Only when millions of households enjoy prosperity can the nation truly thrive."

The Family at the Core

Within the personal life of Xi Jinping, the warmth and devotion to family are evident. Photographs of him alongside his wife, Peng Liyuan, adorn his office shelves, reflecting a softer side of the leader. Despite their busy schedules that often keep them apart, their relationship is characterized by a profound mutual understanding and deep care. Xi has expressed that maintaining genuine connections in the face of life's hustle is crucial, echoing during a Spring Festival speech that one should not overlook genuine feelings amid a crowded lifestyle.

Xi has openly lauded his own family as a source of happiness, stating, "I have a very happy family. My wife and I both have our careers, but we work together to build our family." It illustrates a partnership that transcends their professional obligations, fostering a nurturing home environment.

In interviews, he recounted moments like daily phone calls with Peng Liyuan while he was stationed in Zhejiang, revealing his commitment to stay emotionally connected despite physical distance. An incident in Costa Rica highlighted this connection when he instinctively broke a piece of food to share with her, showcasing years of shared experience and companionship.

Love for Family and Nation

Xi Jinping's messaging consistently intertwines the notions of familial love and patriotism. He has articulated that family is the fundamental building block of society and that the affections for both family and nation should be aligned. During his tenure as a local official and now as the paramount leader, Xi has prioritized strategies that aim to improve the living conditions for families across China.

From his early days as a village official, Xi mingled with local farmers, gaining firsthand insights into their lives and struggles. His relentless efforts continued as he undertook inspections focused on poverty alleviation and development—issues close to his heart. Under his leadership, China successfully eradicated extreme poverty by the end of 2020, lifting nearly 99 million people out of dire economic conditions, a milestone highlighted in the white paper on poverty reduction.

Looking ahead to the concluding stages of the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021–2025), Xi reiterated the importance of prioritizing people's living conditions in the country's future endeavors. In a recent symposium discussing the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030), he emphasized the necessity of securing and enhancing life conditions for citizens, underscoring the critical link between developing the nation and ensuring the welfare of its families.

Conclusion

As the Qixi Festival unfolds and love is celebrated, Xi Jinping's emphasis on family values resonates deeply within the fabric of Chinese society. The intertwining of familial affection and a sense of duty toward the nation frames a narrative that not only speaks to the heart but also molds the guiding principles for a thriving society. With family at its core, the Chinese vision for the future remains firmly rooted in the belief that a prosperous nation is founded on happy households.