Chinese president Xi Jinping emphasized the need for continuous reforms and for the stricter adherence to the rule of law in 2015. He made this remark in a speech on Dec. 31, 2014, saying that reforms and rule of law are "a bird's two wings."
On a live telecast, the president communicated to both domestic and overseas audiences his visions for the new year and the lessons the country learned for the past year.
The president claimed that 2014 was an "unforgettable year" where numerous reforms were pressed and carried out, to the advantage of the country's citizens. However, the president cautioned against stopping these reforms, asking the country to steadfastly change for the better.
Xi also warned against corrupt officials, for they will be dealt with severely.
"In a socialist country under the CPC leadership, once identified, every corrupt official will be dealt with severely," Xi warned.
"In 2014, we pressed ahead with reform, cracked many hard nuts and introduced important reforms close to the interests of our citizens," said the president.
"We adapted to the new normal of economic growth, actively promoted economic and social development, and improved the quality of people's life," he added.
The president further said that continuous reforms are needed for the country to develop in a well-rounded manner and for poverty to be alleviated. The country's goal for 2015 is to improve lives of the needy, in both rural and urban, as well as make their hearts are full of warmth.
During his speech, Xi also wished all Chinese citizens in Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan, as well as overseas Chinese well. He also lauded the at least 400,000 people who left their homes and resettled somewhere else in order to make the South-to-North water diversion project happen.
The president also said that the cooperation of the country with the rest of the world in 2014, such as the APEC meeting and foreign visits, made the world know China better.