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China’s Xi calls for qualitative improvement, measurable growth in economy

By Thomson Reuters Oct 22, 2026 | 1:13 AM

BEIJING, Oct 22 (Reuters) – Chinese President Xi Jinping urged effective qualitative improvement and reasonable ​quantitative growth in ‌the economy in a speech on Thursday, Xinhua reported.

“We must resolutely promote high-quality development and continuously meet ‌the ​people’s ever-growing needs ⁠for a better ⁠life,” Xi said about promoting comprehensive social progress while maintaining stability.

He also emphasised upholding ​the Communist Party of China’s “absolute leadership” over the armed ⁠forces and advancing ⁠the “political building of the ​military”, the state news agency reported.

The ​leader mentioned reform in the ‌military, and strengthening through science and technology, as well as with talent and lawful ⁠governance.

The speech was part of commemorations for the 90th anniversary of the ⁠Long ‌March, a series ⁠of retreats by the ​Red ‌Army, led by Mao ​Zedong, to ⁠evade the pursuing Nationalist forces of Chiang Kai-shek in 1934 and 1935.

(Reporting by Liz Lee and Beijing newsroom; Editing by ​Christopher Cushing)