As we enter 2025, the People’s Republic of China, led by President Xi Jinping, has renewed its commitment to advancing socialism with Chinese characteristics and deepening solidarity with the Global South. From a Nepalese communist perspective, these developments highlight the transformative potential of a socialist governance model to deliver tangible improvements for the working class and marginalized communities.
China’s Extraordinary Progress in 2024
President Xi’s New Year address from Beijing reflected on 2024 as a year of extraordinary achievements in the pursuit of Chinese modernization. His message was grounded in the principles of serving the people and advancing a collective vision of prosperity and peace. Notably, China allocated 70% of its government expenditure toward improving the well-being of its people. This included significant investments in housing, healthcare, education, and elder care—priorities that resonate deeply with Nepalese communist values.
Some key highlights include:
- Renovation of over 50,000 old urban residential communities.
- A trade-in program for consumer goods benefiting millions of citizens.
- Mortgage interest rate reductions assisting 50 million households, encompassing 150 million individuals.
- A focus on elder care, with 300 million yuan allocated for meal assistance and the installation of 358,000 in-home care beds.
Per capita disposable income rose by 5.2%, a testament to the government’s ability to uplift the economic conditions of its people amid global challenges. Xi’s emphasis on ensuring a happy life for the people underscores the essence of socialism: prioritizing human needs over profit-driven exploitation.
Global Leadership and Solidarity with the South
Xi reaffirmed China’s role as a responsible major country, actively promoting global governance reforms and fostering deeper ties with the Global South. Through high-level exchanges and win-win cooperation, China expanded its trade partnerships to over 150 countries and regions while advancing initiatives to bolster South-South cooperation.
Key initiatives in 2024 include:
- Eight measures to support Global South collaboration, focusing on youth exchanges, digital economy, agricultural cooperation, and green development.
- Strengthening ties with Arab, Latin American, Caribbean, and Pacific island nations through frameworks in innovation, finance, and energy.
- Deepening the China-Africa partnership, with a 10-action plan for modernization over the next three years, establishing a shared future for the new era.
China’s dedication to peace-building also stood out, as evidenced by its efforts to address conflicts in Gaza, Ukraine, and other regions. The “Friends for Peace” group, launched with Global South nations, and the adoption of the first UN Security Council ceasefire resolution in Gaza reflect China’s unwavering commitment to dialogue and peaceful resolution of disputes.
Sino-Russian Solidarity: A Pillar of Anti-Imperialism
China’s celebration of 75 years of diplomatic relations with Russia further highlights the strength of socialist-oriented alliances. Presidents Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin have deepened their comprehensive strategic partnership through three high-level meetings in 2024, emphasizing mutual trust, economic cooperation, and global justice.
The completion of the China-Russia east-route natural gas pipeline and the launch of the Years of Culture initiative underscore their shared commitment to challenging Western hegemony. Together, China and Russia have emerged as leaders in fostering Global South unity through platforms like BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO).
Lessons for Nepal’s Socialist Movement
China’s achievements in domestic governance and international diplomacy provide valuable lessons for Nepal’s communist movement. The prioritization of people’s welfare, the pursuit of modernization rooted in local contexts, and the commitment to anti-imperialist solidarity are principles that align with Nepal’s socialist aspirations.
As Nepal continues its path toward inclusive development, learning from China’s focus on grassroots welfare programs, strategic international alliances, and collective modernization efforts can serve as a guiding framework. The emphasis on collaboration within the Global South also inspires Nepal to actively contribute to a more equitable global order.
As comrades across the world celebrate these milestones, the success of socialist governance in China and its unwavering solidarity with oppressed nations reaffirm our belief in the power of Marxist principles to reshape the world. Together, we march forward toward a shared future of peace, justice, and prosperity for all.