148-562: Xi Jinping (born 15 June 1953) is a Chinese politician who has been the general secretary of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC), and thus the paramount leader of China, since 2012. Xi has been serving as the 7th and current president of China since 2013. As a member of the fifth generation of Chinese leadership , Xi is the first CCP general secretary born after
296-530: A National Security Commission (that he heads himself) shortly after he came to power. After the Tiananmen Square massacre in 1989, with Hong Kong residents concerned over their civil liberties, the Societies Ordinance was reviewed; it was amended in 1992, relaxing some of the restrictions against being able to register some societies, but this was repealed after the handover in 1997. According to
444-449: A worker-peasant-soldier student , Xi rose through the ranks politically in China's coastal provinces. Xi was governor of Fujian from 1999 to 2002, before becoming governor and party secretary of neighboring Zhejiang from 2002 to 2007. Following the dismissal of the party secretary of Shanghai, Chen Liangyu , Xi was transferred to replace him for a brief period in 2007. He subsequently joined
592-658: A "modern socialist city" by 2050. General secretary of the Chinese Communist Party The general secretary of the Central Committee of the Chinese Communist Party ( Chinese : 中国共产党中央委员会总书记 ; pinyin : Zhōngguó Gòngchǎndǎng Zhōngyāng Wěiyuánhuì Zǒngshūjì ) is the leader of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), the sole ruling party of the People's Republic of China (PRC). Since 1989,
740-406: A big gap for Xi as a teenager. He once recalled that he had to overcome "five hurdles" ( flea , food, life, labor and thought hurdle), and the experience led him to feel affinity with the rural poor. After a few months, unable to stand rural life, he ran away to Beijing. He was arrested during a crackdown on deserters from the countryside and sent to a work camp to dig ditches, but he later returned to
888-557: A briefing session chaired by He Zai, the secretary-general of the Central Organization Department , Xi Jinping's strategic vision and comprehensive understanding of Zhengding County's development were highlighted. He Zai, along with Wei Jianxing , deputy head of the CCP Central Organization Department, communicated these findings to Hu Yaobang , describing Xi as a leader with a strategic outlook and
1036-427: A disregard for the territory if it can be used for benefit in their trade war and warning that "Hong Kong may be martyred in the process". On 9 June 2020, The Guardian 's China specialists Tania Branigan and Lily Kuo published a report titled "How Hong Kong caught fire: the story of a radical uprising". In it, they wrote that "the nature of [Chinese government involvement] is as alarming as its content: it sets
1184-572: A factory in Luoyang , Henan. In May 1966, the Cultural Revolution cut short Xi's secondary education when all secondary classes were halted for students to criticise and fight their teachers. Student militants ransacked the Xi family home and one of Xi's sisters, Xi Heping, "was persecuted to death." Later, his mother was forced to publicly denounce his father, as he was paraded before a crowd as an enemy of
1332-450: A fleet of limousines, and did not restrict traffic on the parts of the highway he travelled. Xi was elected president on 14 March 2013, in a confirmation vote by the 12th National People's Congress in Beijing. He received 2,952 for, one vote against, and three abstentions. He replaced Hu Jintao, who retired after serving two terms. On 17 March, Xi and his new ministers arranged a meeting with
1480-409: A generational leadership transition at the subsequent party congress. The powers and roles of the general secretary are vaguely defined, with no term limits or written rules for selecting a successor. However, as China is a one-party state , the general secretary holds ultimate power and authority over state and government, and is usually considered the " paramount leader " of China. According to
1628-593: A government institution", Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying said Hong Kong would enact a security law targeting pro-independence movement in Hong Kong. In 2018 Wang Zhimin , director of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in Hong Kong , urged the Hong Kong government to enact national security legislation as he said "Hong Kong is the only place in the world without a national security legislation – it's
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#17328414535631776-536: A higher standard, more comfortable living conditions, and a more beautiful environment." Xi also vowed to tackle corruption at the highest levels, alluding that it would threaten the CCP's survival; he was reticent about far-reaching economic reforms. In December 2012, Xi visited Guangdong in his first trip outside Beijing since taking the Party leadership. The overarching theme of the trip was to call for further economic reform and
1924-511: A key goal. In 2021, Xi declared a "complete victory" over extreme poverty, saying nearly 100 million have been lifted out of poverty under his tenure, though experts said China's poverty threshold was lower than that of the World Bank . In 2020, premier Li Keqiang, citing the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) said that China still had 600 million people living with less than 1000 yuan ($ 140)
2072-428: A letter to the center government addressing the excessive requisitions that burdened local farmers. Their efforts successfully convinced the center government to reduce the annual requisition amount by 14 million kilograms. In 1983, Zhengding adjusted its agricultural structure, leading to a significant increase in farmers' incomes from 148 yuan to over 400 yuan in 1984, thoroughly solving the county's economic issues. As
2220-492: A major weakness in the nation's overall security, and it has a direct impact on residents". When I reported in 1997 on the Hong Kong celebrations bidding farewell to British rule, there was one question on all lips. It was: how long would Beijing's 50-year pledge of "one nation, two systems" survive? The guesses were five years, perhaps 10. China would surely milk the cash cow for all it was worth, but any sign of trouble and Beijing would instantly wipe this "imperialist pimple" off
2368-442: A month, although The Economist said the methodology NBS used was flawed. When Xi took office in 2012, 51% of people in China were living on less than $ 6.9 per day, in 2020 this had fallen 25%. China's economy has grown under Xi, doubling from $ 8.5 trillion in 2012 to $ 17.8 trillion in 2021, while China's nominal GDP per capita surpassed the world average in 2021, though growth has slowed from 8% in 2012 to 6% in 2019. Xi has stressed
2516-606: A name in the national media and drew the attention of China's top leaders. Between 2004 and 2007, Li Qiang acted as Xi's chief of staff through his position as secretary-general of the Zhejiang Party Committee , where they developed close mutual ties. Following the dismissal of Shanghai Party secretary Chen Liangyu in September 2006 due to a social security fund scandal , Xi was transferred to Shanghai in March 2007, where he
2664-404: A nationwide anti-corruption campaign. These included former and current regional officials, leading figures of state-owned enterprises and central government organs, and generals. Within the first two years of the campaign alone, over 200,000 officials received warnings, fines, and demotions. The campaign has led to the downfall of prominent incumbent and retired CCP officials, including members of
2812-501: A negative impact. The One Country Two Systems Research Institute , a pro-Beijing think tank, conducted a telephone sampling survey in May 2020 and interviewed 963 adult citizens in Hong Kong. The institution reported that to the question "Do you think Hong Kong is responsible for safeguarding the country's security?", 74% of those who answered "Responsible", 16.6% of "No responsibility", and 9.5% of "Don't know/difficult to tell". On 1 June,
2960-416: A new form of productive forces derived from continuous sci-tech breakthroughs and innovation that drive strategic emerging and future industries in a more intelligent information era . Xi has been involved in the development of Xiong'an , a new area announced in 2017, planned to become a major metropolis near Beijing; the relocation aspect is estimated to last until 2035 while it is planned to developed into
3108-460: A party that was faced with pervasive corruption. Xi believed corruption at the higher levels of the CCP put the party and country at risk of collapse. Wang adds that Xi has a belief that only the CCP is capable of governing China, and that its collapse would be disastrous for the Chinese people. Xi and the new generational leaders reacted by launching the anti-corruption campaign to eliminate corruption at
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#17328414535633256-558: A political analyst in Hong Kong-Mainland Chinese relations, explains that the move is a dramatic change in Chinese policy, and a risky one that could lead to Beijing "losing access to foreign capital and technology through Hong Kong". The American diplomat of Asian affairs Daniel R. Russel wrote in The Diplomat on 3 June 2020 that China was "fully aware of both the local and the international reaction it could expect" when
3404-516: A precedent of Beijing forcing unpopular legislation on Hong Kong", in open defiance of the handover terms. They also look at the approach of the law, explaining that Beijing has given "material security in place of political freedoms" to its people in Mainland China, and plans to do the same in Hong Kong because it sees all issues as purely economical and protests only escalating because of "troublemakers and hostile foreign powers". In terms of how it
3552-420: A pro-Beijing group claimed it had gathered more than 2.9 million signatures supporting the legislation, through a website and street booths. Around the same time, the heads of the governing council of Hong Kong's eight publicly funded universities jointly backed Beijing's plan to impose a national security law on the city, specifically "the introduction of legislation which prohibits criminal acts that threaten
3700-473: A seminar to instruct them to avoid writing about politics, the CCP, or making statements contradicting official narratives. Many bloggers stopped writing about controversial topics, and Weibo went into decline, with much of its readership shifting to WeChat users speaking to limited social circles. In 2017, telecommunications carriers were instructed to block individuals' use of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) by February 2018. Political observers have called Xi
3848-421: A strengthened military. Xi visited the statue of Deng Xiaoping and his trip was described as following in the footsteps of Deng's own southern trip in 1992 , which provided the impetus for further economic reforms in China after conservative party leaders stalled many of Deng's reforms in the aftermath of the 1989 Tiananmen Square protests and massacre . On his trip, Xi consistently alluded to his signature slogan,
3996-700: A strong alliance ideology between workers and peasants. In 1985, Xi participated in a study tour on corn processing and traveled to Iowa , US, to study agricultural production and corn processing technology. During his visit to the U.S., the CCP Central Organization Department decided to transfer him to Xiamen as a member of the Standing Committee of the CCP Xiamen Municipal Committee and as vice mayor. Arriving in Xiamen as vice-mayor in June 1985, Xi drafted
4144-421: A third of Hong Kongers said they supported the law, with 27% strongly supporting it and 7% somewhat supporting it. Reuters conducted another poll after the law was implemented in late August. Which showed that 60% of the respondents opposed the law and a little bit over 31% supported the law. The Hong Kong Research Association interviewed 1,097 adult citizens by telephone on 2–5 July. 66% of the respondents support
4292-696: A third term in March 2023. Xi Jinping was born on 15 June 1953 in Beijing , the third child of Xi Zhongxun and his second wife Qi Xin . After the founding of the PRC in 1949, Xi's father held a series of posts, including the chief of the Publicity Department of the Chinese Communist Party , vice-premier , and vice chairperson of the National People's Congress . Xi had two older sisters, Qiaoqiao , born in 1949 and An'an ( 安安 ; Ān'ān ), born in 1952. Xi's father
4440-502: A top provincial office for the first time in his career. In 2002, he was elected a full member of the 16th Central Committee , marking his ascension to the national stage. While in Zhejiang, Xi presided over reported growth rates averaging 14% per year. During this period, Zhejiang increasingly transitioned away from heavy industry. His career in Zhejiang was marked by a tough and straightforward stance against corrupt officials. This earned him
4588-777: A tour of Latin America, visiting Mexico, Jamaica, Colombia, Venezuela, Brazil, and Malta, after which he returned to China. On 11 February 2009, while visiting Mexico, Xi spoke in front of a group of overseas Chinese and explained China's contributions during the international financial crisis, saying that it was "the greatest contribution towards the whole of human race, made by China, to prevent its 1.3 billion people from hunger." He went on to remark: "There are some bored foreigners, with full stomachs, who have nothing better to do than point fingers at us. First, China doesn't export revolution; second, China doesn't export hunger and poverty; third, China doesn't come and cause you headaches. What more
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4736-474: A weapon against legitimate criticism of the government". The bill failed as it was strongly opposed by Beijing, leaving a gap in national security legislation. A "scaled-down" version of the Crimes Ordinance amendment was pushed through. It gave a more limited definition of "sedition" and increased territorial defences; it was signed by Hong Kong Governor Chris Patten days before the 1997 handover, but
4884-492: Is also sometimes called the "pilot at the helm" ( 领航掌舵 ). On 25 December 2019, the Politburo officially named Xi as "People's Leader" ( 人民领袖 ; rénmín lǐngxiù ), a title only Mao had held previously. Xi was initially seen as a market reformist, and a central committee under him announced "market forces" would begin to play a "decisive" role in allocating resources. This meant that the state would gradually reduce its involvement in
5032-453: Is being executed, the pair assert that in 2020, "Beijing has abandoned any pretence of winning hearts and minds", instead using force to prevent democracy politicians and activists from having platforms, which Branigan and Kuo say is a plan to use fear to suppress Hong Kong, as "persuasion" has not worked. The Chinese government's legal basis for involvement comes from the Chinese constitution declaring Hong Kong part of China, and Article 18 of
5180-470: Is there to be said?" The story was reported on some local television stations. The news led to a flood of discussions on Chinese Internet forums and it was reported that the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs was caught off-guard by Xi's remarks, as the actual video was shot by some accompanying Hong Kong reporters and broadcast on Hong Kong TV, which then turned up on various Internet video websites. In
5328-571: The CCP constitution and the re-election of Xi as general secretary of the CCP and chairman of the CMC for a third term, with the overall result of the Congress being further strengthening of Xi's power. Xi's re-election made him the first party leader since Mao Zedong to be chosen for a third term, though Deng Xiaoping ruled the country informally for a longer period. The new Politburo Standing Committee elected just after
5476-590: The Constitution of the Chinese Communist Party , the general secretary serves as an ex officio member of the Politburo Standing Committee. According to regulations of the CCP, the general secretary is responsible for convening the meetings of the Politburo and the Politburo Standing Committee. The general secretary additionally presides over the work of the Secretariat. The general secretary also sets
5624-630: The European Union , Xi visited Belgium, Germany, Bulgaria, Hungary and Romania from 7 to 21 October 2009. He visited Japan, South Korea, Cambodia, and Myanmar on his Asian trip from 14 to 22 December 2009. He later visited the United States, Ireland and Turkey in February 2012. This visit included meeting with then U.S. president Barack Obama at the White House and vice president Joe Biden (with Biden as
5772-538: The Hong Kong Human Rights Monitor (HRM), China amended the ordinance in 1997 "as part of a package of China's effort to emasculate the Hong Kong Bill of Rights". The 1997 amendments include the proviso that should the relevant officials "reasonably believe" that prohibiting a society "is necessary in the interests of national security or public safety, public order ( ordre public ) or the protection of
5920-543: The National People's Congress (NPC) instead. On 15 April, the head of the liaison office in Hong Kong, Luo Huining , called for the rapid passing of a national security law for the city. On 18 June 2020, the Chinese government introduced a draft to the NPC, aiming for the session to take three days. This is a much more rapid process than bills in the NPC, which go through three different rounds of approval. On 22 May 2020,
6068-480: The National People's Congress decision on Hong Kong national security legislation . The law was passed on 30 June 2020 by the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress as a means of resolving the anti-extradition bill protests instigated by a Hong Kong local bill proposed in 2019 to enable extradition to other territories including the mainland, and came into force the same day. Among others,
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6216-636: The Nelson Mandela class of persons. A person with enormous emotional stability who does not allow his personal misfortunes or sufferings affect his judgment. In other words, he is impressive." Former U.S. Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson described Xi as "the kind of guy who knows how to get things over the goal line." Australian prime minister Kevin Rudd said that Xi "has sufficient reformist, party and military background to be very much his own man." In February 2009, in his capacity as vice-president, Xi embarked on
6364-765: The Politburo Standing Committee (PSC) of the CCP the same year and was the first-ranking secretary of the Central Secretariat in October 2007. In 2008, he was designated as Hu Jintao 's presumed successor as paramount leader. Towards this end, Xi was appointed vice president of the PRC and vice chairman of the CMC . He officially received the title of leadership core from the CCP in 2016. While overseeing China's domestic policy, Xi has introduced far-ranging measures to enforce party discipline and strengthen internal unity. His anti-corruption campaign led to
6512-574: The Sanfang Qixiang in Fuzhou, advanced urban renewal initiatives, and effectively addressed the issue of poverty alleviation on Pingtan Island . In 1995, Xi Jinping was elevated to deputy secretary of the Fujian Provincial Committee of the Chinese Communist Party and served as Governor of Fujian from 1999 to 2002, during which he presented the notion of " Megalopolises " and advocated for
6660-538: The Shanghai Free-Trade Zone in 2013, which was seen as part of the economic reforms. However, by 2017, Xi's promise of economic reforms was said to have stalled by experts. In 2015, the Chinese stock market bubble popped , which led Xi to use state forces to fix it. From 2012 to 2022, the share of the market value of private sector firms in China's top listed companies increased from 10% to over 40%. He has overseen
6808-568: The Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPCSC) is the highest authority on interpreting the Basic Law, and so could "say that the new security law cannot be restrained by the Bill of Rights" if they want. National security legislation in Mainland China is controversial outside the country. First implemented in 1993, China's national security law became more restrictive under Chinese Communist Party general secretary Xi Jinping , who set up
6956-570: The Wang Lijun incident , which opened the door for Xi to come to power without challengers. Xi is considered one of the most successful members of the Princelings, a quasi-clique of politicians who are descendants of early Chinese Communist revolutionaries. Former prime minister of Singapore, Lee Kuan Yew , when asked about Xi, said he felt he was "a thoughtful man who has gone through many trials and tribulations." Lee also commented: "I would put him in
7104-419: The chief executive of Hong Kong , CY Leung , confirming his support for Leung. Within hours of his election, Xi discussed cyber security and North Korea with U.S. President Barack Obama over the phone. Obama announced the visits of treasury and state secretaries Jack Lew and John F. Kerry to China the following week. "To speak the truth" means to focus on the nature of things, to speak frankly, and follow
7252-518: The establishment of the People's Republic of China (PRC). The son of Chinese communist veteran Xi Zhongxun , Xi was exiled to rural Yanchuan County as a teenager following his father's purge during the Cultural Revolution . He lived in a yaodong in the village of Liangjiahe, Shaanxi province , where he joined the CCP after several failed attempts and worked as the local party secretary . After studying chemical engineering at Tsinghua University as
7400-497: The leadership core of the CCP, he had been referred to as Xi Dada ( 习大大 , Uncle or Papa Xi), though this stopped in April 2016. The village of Liangjiahe, where Xi was sent to work, is decorated with propaganda and murals extolling the formative years of his life. The CCP's Politburo named Xi Jinping lingxiu ( 领袖 ), a reverent term for "leader" and a title previously only given to Mao Zedong and his immediate successor Hua Guofeng . He
7548-481: The monarchy . In turn, it sought proposals to change the articles on treasonable offences. This bill would have amended the Crimes Ordinance, changing sedition legislation that had existed since 1971 and was described by Hong Kong as "archaic". Specifically, the bill proposed legalising dissent of the government, with the council declaring that the existing ordinance "[was] contrary to the development of democracy [as it] criminalises speech or writing and may be used as
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#17328414535637696-431: The party and national constitutions . As the central figure of the fifth generation of leadership of the PRC, Xi has centralized institutional power by taking on multiple positions, including new CCP committees on national security, economic and social reforms, military restructuring and modernization, and the internet. In October 2022, Xi secured a third term as CCP General Secretary, and was re-elected state president for
7844-496: The supreme commander of the People's Liberation Army . The CCP general secretary is nominally elected by a plenary meeting of the Central Committee of the Chinese Communist Party from among the members of the Politburo Standing Committee . In practice, the de facto method of selecting the general secretary has varied over time. The two most recent general secretaries, Hu Jintao and Xi Jinping , were first elevated to
7992-459: The yellow economy removed pro-democracy posters, Lennon Walls , and pro-democracy social media posts. Already after the passage of the NPCSC decision on 22 May, Hong Kong citizens began looking for ways to emigrate and leave Hong Kong, feeling that the law would fundamentally damage their rights of expression and freedom. Ten times the usual number of web searches about emigration were recorded after
8140-419: The "Chinese Dream." "This dream can be said to be the dream of a strong nation. And for the military, it is a dream of a strong military," Xi told sailors. Xi's trip was significant in that he departed from the established convention of Chinese leaders' travel routines in multiple ways. Rather than dining out, Xi and his entourage ate regular hotel buffet. He travelled in a large van with his colleagues rather than
8288-629: The "governing coalition" by resigning from the Executive Council in protest. Knowing that the bill would not be passed without the Liberal Party, the government finally decided to postpone it, before it was shelved indefinitely. Pro-Beijing Hong Kong politicians have spoken about the proposed law since independence movements grew in Hong Kong. When China announced that "[Beijing] will absolutely neither permit anyone advocating secession in Hong Kong nor allow any pro-independence activists to enter
8436-491: The 2019–2020 protests and passage of the law, a 2003 attempt by the Hong Kong Legislative Council to satisfy Article 23 failed after mass demonstrations . Both the 2003 attempt at and the 2020 passage of legislation occurred during outbreaks of a novel coronavirus ( SARS and COVID-19 , respectively), which affected the actions of both protesters and authorities. Article 23 was implemented in March 2024 with
8584-743: The CCP Congress was filled almost completely with people close to Xi, with four out of the seven members of the previous PSC stepping down. Xi was further re-elected as the PRC president and chairman of the PRC Central Military Commission on 10 March 2023 during the opening of the 14th National People's Congress , while Xi ally Li Qiang succeeded Li Keqiang as the Premier. Xi has had a cult of personality constructed around himself since entering office with books, cartoons, pop songs and dance routines honouring his rule. Following Xi's ascension to
8732-464: The CCP general secretary has been the paramount leader of the PRC. According to the CCP constitution , the general secretary is elected during a plenary session of the Central Committee . The general secretary serves as an ex officio member of the Politburo Standing Committee (PSC), China's de facto top decision-making body. The general secretary is also the head of the Secretariat , and sets
8880-408: The CCP. His administration pursued a debt-deleveraging campaign, seeking to slow and cut the unsustainable amount of debt China has accrued during its growth. Xi's administration has promoted " Made in China 2025 " plan that aims to make China self-reliant in key technologies, although publicly China de-emphasised this plan due to the outbreak of a China–United States trade war . Since the outbreak of
9028-517: The CMC—which have no term limits. However, Xi did not say whether he intended to be party general secretary, CMC chairman and state president, for three or more terms. In its sixth plenary session in November 2021, CCP adopted a historical resolution , a kind of document that evaluated the party's history. This was the third of its kind after ones adopted by Mao Zedong and Deng Xiaoping. In comparison with
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#17328414535639176-470: The CYLC, saying that [these cadres] can't talk about science, literature and art, work or life [with young people]. All they can do is just repeat the same old bureaucratic, stereotypical talk." In 2018, the National People's Congress (NPC) passed constitutional amendments including removal of term limits for the president and vice president, the creation of a National Supervisory Commission , as well as enhancing
9324-437: The Chinese government has wanted to implement a national security law in Hong Kong under their terms for years, and are using the 2019 protests as an excuse, saying that "China has always found it difficult to accept the kind of freedom and restraint to power that Hong Kong has under a separate system". Man-Kei Tam, the Hong Kong director of Amnesty International , described the Chinese legislation as " Orwellian ". In light of
9472-580: The Hong Kong Basic Law allowing for Chinese laws to be valid in Hong Kong if they are included in Annex III. Deutsche Welle expects that the NPCSC national security law will stand as a Chinese national law that applies to Hong Kong, as it will be added to Annex III; Dang Yuan wrote for Deutsche Welle that "Beijing wants to maintain the appearance of Hong Kong's autonomy and continues to insist that Hong Kong pass its 'own' corresponding law" in alignment with
9620-641: The Municipal Committee Secretary. In 1997, he was named an alternate member of the 15th CCP Central Committee . In 1999, he was promoted to the office of Vice Governor of Fujian, and became governor a year later. Xi proposed the concept of the Golden Triangle at Min River ( Chinese : 闽江口金三角经济圈 ) and oversaw the construction of the Fuzhou 3820 Project Master Plan, which outlines Fuzhou City's growth strategy for 3, 8, and 20 years. He concentrated on
9768-474: The NPC approved a decision to authorise the NPCSC to enact a national security law for Hong Kong if Hong Kong did not "legislate national security law according to the Basic Law as soon as possible". The decision authorises the NPCSC to enact laws for "a sound legal system" in the territory. An NPCSC deputy claims that the Article 23 legislative provisions still have to be passed by August 2021. Brian Fong ,
9916-459: The NPC passed its decision about the legislation. Russel explained that the reaction in 2003, the 2019 protests, and some US sanctions favouring Hong Kong over Mainland China set the baseline for response to the decision. He also noted that China's reputation was already low internationally because of the COVID-19 pandemic (noting that, "ironically", it was in the same position as in 2003 with SARS and
10064-483: The NPCSC legislation. Deutsche Welle wrote that China chose mid-2020 as the time to intervene with a restrictive law because of the likelihood of a democratic majority winning in the Hong Kong elections in September, meaning another Hong Kong attempt at a national security law would be unlikely. A large number of Hong Kong residents opposed the Chinese government proposals. The prospect of any national security law has always been unpopular, but protesters in 2020 said that
10212-402: The National People's Congress Standing Committee's enactment of the "Hong Kong National Security Law" and its implementation in Hong Kong in Annex III of the Basic Law, while 31% do not support it; the survey also shows that 47% of the respondents believe The "Hong Kong National Security Law" has a positive impact on Hong Kong's prospects, 32% of the respondents have no impact, and 17% think it has
10360-533: The PSC. Xi's anti-corruption campaign is seen by critics, such as The Economist , as a political tool to remove potential opponents and consolidate power. Xi's establishment of a new anti-corruption agency, the National Supervision Commission, ranked higher than the supreme court, has been described by Amnesty International as a "systemic threat to human rights" that "places tens of millions of people at
10508-497: The People's Republic of China on Safeguarding National Security in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region is a national law of China on Hong Kong national security passed in 2020. It is implemented in Hong Kong in accordance with Hong Kong Basic Law Article 18, which allows for China's national laws to be valid in Hong Kong if they are included in Annex III. It was formulated under the authorization of
10656-539: The Region's security and to prevent political bodies outside the Region from "conducting political activities in the Region" or otherwise interfering with Hong Kong's independent security: The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region shall enact laws on its own to prohibit any act of treason, secession, sedition, subversion against the Central People's Government, or theft of state secrets, to prohibit foreign political organisations or bodies from conducting political activities in
10804-486: The Region, and to prohibit political organisations or bodies of the Region from establishing ties with foreign political organisations or bodies. A national security law would relate to three ordinances that make up Hong Kong's penal law, the Official Secrets Ordinance, Crimes Ordinance and Societies Ordinance . The Societies Ordinance in particular covers elements of security, as it was intended to prevent
10952-703: The State Council and the General Office of the CPC Central Military Commission, where he served as one of three secretaries to Geng Biao , a member of the CPC Central Committee's Political Bureau and Minister of Defense. On March 25, 1982, Xi was appointed deputy party secretary of Zhengding County in Hubei. Together with Lü Yulan ( 吕玉兰 ), the other deputy party secretary of Zhengding, Xi wrote
11100-553: The United Kingdom and the United States. The controversial law has also garnered particular attention to its Article 38, which states that the law is applicable also to those who are not permanent residents of Hong Kong, and to those who do not reside there; the provision has been interpreted by some as saying that it is applicable to every individual in the world. Article 23 of Hong Kong's Basic Law states that Hong Kong Special Administrative Region will "enact laws on its own" for
11248-422: The agenda of Central Committee, Politburo and PSC meetings. Since the 1990s, the holder of the post has been, except for transitional periods, the president of China , making the holder the head of state, and the chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC), the supreme commander of the People's Liberation Army (PLA). As the leader of the world's largest economy by GDP purchasing power parity (PPP) ,
11396-605: The authorities determine to be in violation thereof. The law established an office outside of Hong Kong jurisdiction to administer enforcement of the law. Article 23 of the Hong Kong Basic Law , which came into force with the British handover of Hong Kong in 1997, required that a national security law with some of these provisions be enacted by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region . Before
11544-457: The central role of the CCP. Xi was reappointed as president, now without term limits, while Li Keqiang was reappointed premier. According to the Financial Times , Xi expressed his views of constitutional amendment at meetings with Chinese officials and foreign dignitaries. Xi explained the decision in terms of needing to align two more powerful posts—general secretary of the CCP and chairman of
11692-453: The city's professional body representing its barristers, issued a statement saying that it was "gravely concerned with both the contents of the [national security law] and the manner of its introduction." The statement noted that the law was enacted in a way that prevented the city's lawyers, judges, police and residents from understanding its contents in any way prior to its coming into force. The Hong Kong politician Margaret Ng believes that
11840-509: The city, especially pro-democracy activists . Since coming to power, Xi's tenure has witnessed a significant increase in censorship and mass surveillance , a deterioration in human rights (e.g. the internment of Uyghurs in Xinjiang ), the rise of a cult of personality around his leadership, and the removal of term limits for the presidency in 2018. Xi's political ideas and principles, known as Xi Jinping Thought , have been incorporated into
11988-521: The community expressed a desire to keep him there. However, after Liangjiahe Village advocated for his return, Xi went back in July that same year. Liang Yuming ( 梁玉明 ) and Liang Youhua ( 梁有华 ), the village branch secretaries, supported his application to the Chinese Communist Party. Yet, due to his father, Xi Zhongxun, still facing political persecution, the application was initially blocked by higher authorities. Despite submitting ten applications, it wasn't until
12136-499: The concept of internet sovereignty . The censorship of Misplaced Pages has been stringent; in April 2019, all versions of Misplaced Pages were blocked. Likewise, the situation for users of Weibo has been described as a change from fearing one's account would be deleted, to fear of arrest. A law enacted in 2013 authorized a three-year prison term for bloggers who shared more than 500 times any content considered "defamatory." The State Internet Information Department summoned influential bloggers to
12284-537: The country for more than two terms was Mao Zedong , who served as Chairman of the CCP Central Committee from 1943 until his death in 1976. The post was established by the 12th Central Committee in 1982, replacing the post of Chairman of the Chinese Communist Party. Since its revival in 1982, the post of general secretary has been the highest office in the CCP, though it did not become the most powerful post until Deng Xiaoping 's retirement in 1990. Since
12432-426: The creation of criminal secret societies and triads . In 1949, with the influx of migrants from China, it was reintroduced and amended to specifically mention "foreign political organisations". The Crimes Ordinance covers the handling of dissent within the region. In place since 1971, and never amended, the ordinance sets a legal standard allowing people to be imprisoned simply for handling material deemed to be against
12580-471: The decision was announced. Following the British announcement that it would open a route to British citizenship for Hong Kongers born under British rule, a spike in interest in properties in the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada occurred. Reuters held a poll of local opinion towards the law, in June before it was implemented. The result showed that a majority of Hong Kongers opposed the law, with 49% strongly opposing it and 7% somewhat opposing it. About
12728-605: The development of Changle International Airport , the Min River Water Transfer Project , the Fuzhou Telecommunication Hub , and Fuzhou Port , among others. He concentrated on attracting Taiwanese and foreign investment, establishing Southwest TPV Electronics and Southeast Automobile in Fuzhou, and fostering Fuyao Glass , Newland Digital Technology and other manufacturing firms. Furthermore, he rehabilitated local cultural landmarks, including as
12876-655: The development of the first strategic plan for the city, the Xiamen Economic and Social Development Strategy for 1985–2000. From August, Along with helping to prepare Xiamen Airlines , the Xiamen Economic Information Center, and the Xiamen Special Administrative Region Road Project, etc, he oversaw the resolution for Yundang Lake 's comprehensive treatments. He married Peng Liyuan then in Xiamen. He started serving as
13024-409: The distribution of capital, and restructure state-owned enterprises (SOEs) to allow further competition, potentially by attracting foreign and private sector players in industries previously highly regulated. This policy aimed to address the bloated state sector that had unduly profited from re-structuring by purchasing assets at below-market prices, assets no longer being used productively. Xi launched
13172-519: The downfall of prominent incumbent and retired CCP officials, including former PSC member Zhou Yongkang . For the sake of promoting " common prosperity ", Xi has enacted a series of policies designed to increase equality, overseen targeted poverty alleviation programs, and directed a broad crackdown in 2021 against the tech and tutoring sectors. Furthermore, he has expanded support for state-owned enterprises (SOEs), advanced military-civil fusion , and attempted to reform China's property sector. Following
13320-551: The enactment of the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance . The United Kingdom and 26 other countries condemned the national security law; the United Kingdom called it a breach of the 1984 Sino-British Joint Declaration , which provided autonomy for Hong Kong to be retained for 50 years. The imposition of the national security law move prompted measures to put forward relaxed immigration laws for Hong Kong migrants by countries such as Australia, Canada,
13468-505: The existence of the state". Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen expressed her disappointment with the controversial law and announced that a special office for coordinating humanitarian assistance to the Hong Kong people would officially open on the first of July in response to the law's passage. The Democratic Progressive Party warned that this was the end of the " one country, two systems " policy for Hong Kong and that Taiwanese people travelling to Hong Kong should take care. The head of
13616-626: The filming base of Dream of the Red Mansions in Zhengding and secured 3.5 million yuan to build Rongguo Mansion, which significantly boosted the county's tourism industry, generating 17.61 million yuan in revenue that year. Additionally, Xi invited prominent figures such as Hua Luogeng , Yu Guangyuan , Pan Chengxiao to visit Zhengding, which eventually led to the development of the county's "semi-urban" strategy, leveraging its proximity to Shijiazhuang for diverse business growth. In September 1984, during
13764-423: The formation of "centrally-dispatched inspection teams". These were cross-jurisdictional squads whose task was to gain understanding of the operations of provincial and local party organizations, and enforce party discipline mandated by Beijing. Work teams had the effect of identifying and initiating investigations of high-ranking officials. Over one hundred provincial-ministerial level officials were implicated during
13912-537: The fuel shortages in his village, he traveled to Mianyang to learn about biogas digesters. Upon returning, he successfully implemented the technology in Liangjiahe, marking a breakthrough in Shaanxi Province that soon spread throughout the region. Additionally, he led efforts to drill wells for water supply, establish iron industry cooperatives, reclaim land, plant flue-cured tobacco, and set up sales outlets to address
14060-497: The government deems as strategic. His administration made it easier for banks to issue mortgages , increased foreign participation in the bond market, and increased the national currency renminbi's global role, helping it to join IMF's basket of special drawing right . In 2018, he promised to continue reforms but warned nobody "can dictate to the Chinese people." Xi has made eradicating extreme poverty through targeted poverty alleviation
14208-409: The government, without need for evidence. The Hong Kong Bill of Rights ensures freedom of speech , but Hong Kong barrister Wilson Leung has said that China may find a way to override this in legislation they introduce. Leung cites the fact a law imposed by China would be considered national law – while the Hong Kong Bill of Rights is "local" and so would be deemed subordinate by Beijing – and that
14356-453: The head of a region after being appointed just as the secretary of Ningde in September 1988. and Ningde's economy was far worse at that time than that of Fuzhou and Xiamen. Xi organized his work log and experience during his Ningde period into his book Getting out of Poverty , and handled the local poverty eradicating efforts and local CCP building projects. The CCP Fujian Provincial Committee decided in May 1990 to assign Xi to Fuzhou City as
14504-799: The helm of a top-level CCP committee dubbed the 6521 Project , which was charged with ensuring social stability during a series of politically sensitive anniversaries in 2009. Xi's position as the apparent successor to become the paramount leader was threatened with the rapid rise of Bo Xilai , the party secretary of Chongqing at the time. Bo was expected to join the PSC at the 18th Party Congress , with most expecting that he would try to eventually maneuver himself into replacing Xi. Bo's policies in Chongqing inspired imitations throughout China and received praise from Xi himself during Xi's visit to Chongqing in 2010. Records of praises from Xi were later erased after he became paramount leader. Bo's downfall would come with
14652-405: The higher levels of the government. Since Xi became general secretary, censorship has stepped up. Chairing the 2018 China Cyberspace Governance Conference, Xi committed to "fiercely crack down on criminal offenses including hacking, telecom fraud, and violation of citizens' privacy." During a visit to Chinese state media, Xi stated that " party and government-owned media must hold the family name of
14800-501: The importance of "high-quality growth" rather than "inflated growth." He has stated China has abandoned a growth-at-all-costs strategy which Xi refers to as "GDP heroism." Instead, Xi said other social issues such as environmental protection are important. Xi has circulated a policy called " dual circulation ," meaning reorienting the economy towards domestic consumption while remaining open to foreign trade and investment. Xi has prioritised boosting productivity . Xi has attempted to reform
14948-610: The independence of the People's Republic of China", there was no explanation of what constituted a threat to this, nor how it should be implemented. In December 1996, the Hong Kong Legislative Council (as part of the British colonial government ) introduced the Crimes (Amendment)(No.2) Bill 1996. The catalyst for introduction was the forthcoming handover, with the initial amendments being mostly technical and removing reference to
15096-461: The instability to failing to exert critical influence over local affairs. The South China Morning Post reported that the Chinese central government believed that the political climate in Hong Kong, due to the protests, precludes the passage of national security legislation under Article 23, while Chief Executive Carrie Lam added that the protests made the law more necessary than before, and so China resorted to enactment of security measures through
15244-656: The inter-island growth strategy of Fuzhou and Xiamen, which motivated local officials to swiftly overcome the repercussions of the Yuanhua smuggling case ( Chinese : 远华走私案 ) and adopt a new development strategy. Xi also oversaw the development of "Digital Fujian", including the province's complaint hotline into the "12345 Citizen Service Platform," so enhancing organizational efficiency. In 2002, Xi left Fujian and took up leading political positions in neighbouring Zhejiang. He eventually took over as provincial Party Committee secretary after several months as acting governor, occupying
15392-510: The legislation), especially in the US where "public attitudes toward the other nation have taken a sharp turn for the worse" because of the pandemic that originated in China. However, he added that Beijing had at the time an "increased level of resolve [and] tolerance for negative consequences"; he wrote that forceful economic action from the US may prompt the Chinese government to retaliate with military action in Hong Kong, suggesting that both nations have
15540-465: The light of Article 23 of the Basic Law. The international response to this 'national security law' was to invoke the Siracusa Principles, which say that national security "cannot be invoked as a reason for imposing limitations to prevent merely local or relatively isolated threats to law and order", only against outside threats. International jurists declared that including 'national security' in
15688-419: The line of the central leadership. Xi was appointed to the nine-man PSC at the 17th Party Congress in October 2007. He was ranked above Li Keqiang , an indication that he was going to succeed Hu Jintao as China's next leader . In addition, Xi also held the first secretary of the CCP's Central Secretariat . This assessment was further supported at the 11th National People's Congress in March 2008, when Xi
15836-451: The map. No one dreamed China's patience would last 23 years. Simon Jenkins In 2019, the Hong Kong government introduced an extradition law amendment bill proposing to allow extradition to countries and territories that have no formal extradition agreements with Hong Kong, including Taiwan and Mainland China, in certain circumstances. The bill sparked continuing protests, and was later withdrawn. The Chinese authorities attributed
15984-568: The mercy of a secretive and virtually unaccountable system that is above the law." Xi has overseen significant reforms of the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI), CCP's highest internal control institution. He and CCDI Secretary Wang Qishan further institutionalized CCDI's independence from the day-to-day operations of the CCP, improving its ability to function as a bona fide control body. According to The Wall Street Journal , anti-corruption punishment to officials at or above
16132-401: The mid-1990s, starting with Jiang Zemin , the general secretary has traditionally also held the post of president of China . While the presidency is a ceremonial post, it is customary for the general secretary to assume the presidency to confirm his status as head of state . It has additionally been held together with the post of chairman of the Central Military Commission , making the holder
16280-400: The most powerful Chinese leader since Mao Zedong, especially since the ending of presidential two-term limits in 2018. Xi has departed from the collective leadership practices of post-Mao predecessors. He has centralised his power and created working groups with himself at the head to subvert government bureaucracy, making himself become the unmistakable central figure of the administration. In
16428-516: The national security law established four particular crimes of secession , subversion , terrorism , and collusion with foreign organisations; any open speech, verbal promotion or intention of Hong Kong's secession from China is considered a crime as well. The implementation of the law entitles authorities to surveil , detain , and search persons suspected under its provisions and to require publishers, hosting services , and internet service providers to block, remove, or restrict content which
16576-563: The new commune secretary, Bai Guangxing ( 白光兴 ), recognized Xi's capabilities that his application was forwarded to the CCP Yanchuan County Committee and approved in early 1974. Around that time, as Liangjiahe village underwent leadership changes, Xi was recommended to become the Party branch chairman of the Liangjiahe Brigade. After taking office, Xi noted that Mianyang , Sichuan was using biogas technology and, given
16724-493: The new proposals "strikes at the heart of Hong Kong's civic political identity, its success as an international hub. But most of all it strikes at people's sense of belonging". Some Hong Kong opponents of the law hope it will cause other countries to revoke their special treatment toward Hong Kong, which will in turn damage China's economy, using the Cantonese slang term lam chau to describe this. The Hong Kong Bar Association ,
16872-498: The official host); and stops in California and Iowa . In Iowa, he met with the family that previously hosted him during his 1985 tour as a Hebei provincial official. A few months before his ascendancy to the party leadership, Xi disappeared from official media coverage and cancelled meeting with foreign officials for several weeks beginning on 1 September 2012, causing rumors. He then reappeared on 15 September. On 15 November 2012, Xi
17020-522: The onset of COVID-19 pandemic in mainland China , he initially presided over a zero-COVID policy from January 2020 to December 2022 before ultimately shifting towards a mitigation strategy . Xi has pursued a more aggressive foreign policy, particularly with regard to China's relations with the U.S. , the nine-dash line in the South China Sea , and the Sino-Indian border dispute . Additionally, for
17168-535: The opinion of at least one political scientist, Xi "has surrounded himself with cadres he met while stationed on the coast, Fujian and Shanghai and in Zhejiang." Observers have said that Xi has seriously diluted the influence of the once-dominant " Tuanpai ," also called the Youth League Faction, which were CCP officials who rose through the Communist Youth League (CYLC). He criticized the cadres of
17316-415: The ordinance dealing with local societies was unwarranted and inappropriate because "it is difficult to suggest that a society or a demonstration in Hong Kong will threaten the existence of China", and any local threat can be handled with normal public order laws. Despite this, the 'national security' ground was introduced. While "national security" was defined as "safeguarding of the territorial integrity and
17464-412: The other five members were new. In a marked departure from the common practice of Chinese leaders, Xi's first speech as general secretary was plainly worded and did not include any political slogans or mention his predecessors. Xi mentioned the aspirations of the average person, remarking, "Our people ... expect better education, more stable jobs, better income, more reliable social security, medical care of
17612-420: The other historical resolutions, Xi's one did not herald a major change in how the CCP evaluated its history. To accompany the historical resolution, the CCP promoted the terms Two Establishes and Two Safeguards , calling the CCP to unite around and protect Xi's core status within the party. The 20th National Congress of the Chinese Communist Party , held between 16 and 22 October 2022, has overseen amendments in
17760-424: The party " ( 党和政府主办的媒体必须姓党 ) and that the state media "must embody the party's will, safeguard the party's authority." His administration has overseen more Internet restrictions imposed, and is described as being "stricter across the board" on speech than previous administrations. Xi has taken a strong stand to control internet usage inside China, including Google and Facebook , advocating Internet censorship under
17908-620: The passing of the national security law on 30 June, prominent democracy activists Joshua Wong , Nathan Law , Agnes Chow , and Jeffrey Ngo announced that they would be leaving Demosistō , which had been involved in lobbying in the US for the passing of the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act and the suspension of the city's special trade status. Shortly afterward, Demosistō was disbanded and all operations were ceased. Two other pro-independent groups announced that they had ended their operations in Hong Kong, fearing that they would be
18056-515: The position of first Secretary of the Secretariat in the same process used to determine the membership and roles of the CCP Politburo Standing Committee. Under this informal process, the first secretary would be chosen during deliberations by incumbent Politburo members and retired Politburo Standing Committee members in the lead up to a Party Congress . The first secretary would later succeed the retiring general secretary as part of
18204-417: The property sector to combat the steep increase in prices and cut the economy's dependence on it. In the 19th CCP National Congress, Xi declared "Houses are built to be inhabited, not for speculation." In 2020, Xi's government formulated the " three red lines " policy that aimed to deleverage the heavily indebted property sector. Xi has supported a property tax , for which he has faced resistance from members of
18352-583: The relaxation of restrictions on foreign direct investment (FDI) and increased cross-border holdings of stocks and bonds. Xi has increased state control over the economy, voicing support for SOEs, while also supporting the private sector. CCP control of SOEs has increased, while limited steps towards market liberalization, such as increasing mixed ownership of SOEs were undertaken. Under Xi, "government guidance funds," public-private investment funds set up by or for government bodies, have raised more than $ 900 billion for early funding to companies that work in sectors
18500-647: The revolution. His father was later imprisoned in 1968 when Xi was aged 15. In 1968, Xi submitted an application to the Bayi School's Reform Committee and insisted on leaving Beijing for countryside. On January 13, 1969, they left Beijing and arrived in Liangjiahe Village, Yan'an , Shaanxi, alongside the Mao Zedong's Down to the Countryside Movement . The rural areas of Yan'an were very backward, which created
18648-459: The rights and freedoms of others", it can be banned without evidence. HRM said that: The use of the term "national security" is particularly objectionable because the concept has frequently been used in China to criminalise the peaceful exercise of the rights of expression and to persecute those with legitimate demands like democracy and human rights. Its inclusion raises fears of extension of such Mainland Chinese practices to Hong Kong especially in
18796-558: The sake of advancing Chinese economic interests abroad, Xi has sought to expand China's influence in Africa and Eurasia by championing the Belt and Road Initiative . Despite meeting with Taiwanese president Ma Ying-jeou in 2015, Xi presided over a deterioration in relations between Beijing and Taipei under Ma's successor, Tsai Ing-wen . In 2020, Xi oversaw the passage of a national security law in Hong Kong which clamped down on political opposition in
18944-473: The second largest economy by GDP nominal , the largest military in the world by personnel, a recognized nuclear weapons state , UN Security Council permanent member , and a potential superpower , the general secretary is considered to be one of the world's most powerful political figures. The incumbent general secretary is Xi Jinping , who took office on 15 November 2012 and was re-elected twice on 25 October 2017 and 23 October 2022. The last person to rule
19092-692: The secretary of the CCP Zhengding County Committee in July 1983, Xi initiated several development projects, including the development of "Nine Articles of Zhengding talents", the construction of Changshan Park, the restoration of the Longxing Temple , the formation of a tourism company, and the establishment of the Rongguo Mansion and Zhengding Table Tennis Base. He also persuaded the China Teleplay Production Center to set
19240-593: The targets of the new law. Nathan Law fled the country shortly afterwards. Adrian Brown from Al Jazeera observed the passing of the law created a chilling effect in the city. According to him, when his team began interviewing ordinary people about their opinions on the passing of the law, many of them declined to comment, a phenomenon which he perceived to be "unusual". Though the law was not retroactive, many Hong Kong people deleted pro-democracy social media posts and accounts, and asked journalists to destroy evidence of previous conversations. Businesses participating in
19388-821: The topics of Central Committee, Politburo and Politburo Standing Committee meetings. Since October 2017, the first plenary session of the 19th CCP Central Committee , all Politburo members make an annual written presentation to the CCP General Secretary. The position is reportedly paid a basic annual salary of ¥136,620 or around US$ 19,200 per year. 2020 Hong Kong national security law High Court District Court Magistrates' Court Special courts and tribunals: Chief Executive Elections Legislative elections District council elections Consular missions in Hong Kong Hong Kong–China relations Hong Kong–Taiwan relations The Law of
19536-543: The trade war in 2018, Xi has revived calls for "self-reliance," especially on technology. Domestic spending on R&D has significantly increased, surpassing the European Union (EU) and reaching a record $ 564 billion in 2020. The Chinese government has supported technology companies like Huawei through grants, tax breaks, credit facilities and other assistance, enabling their rise but leading to US countermeasures. In 2023, Xi put forward new productive forces , this refers to
19684-536: The train, citing a loosely enforced party regulation that stipulated that special trains can only be reserved for "national leaders." While in Shanghai, he worked on preserving unity of the local party organisation. He pledged there would be no 'purges' during his administration, despite the fact many local officials were thought to have been implicated in the Chen Liangyu corruption scandal. On most issues, Xi largely echoed
19832-462: The truth. This is an important embodiment of a leading official's characteristics of truth seeking, embodying justice, devotion to public interests, and uprightness. Moreover, he highlighted that the premise of telling the truth is to listen to the truth. — Xi Jinping during a speech in 2012 Xi vowed to crack down on corruption immediately after he ascended to power. In his inaugural speech as general secretary, Xi mentioned that fighting corruption
19980-538: The vice ministerial level need approval from Xi. The Wall Street Journal said that when he wants to neutralize a political rival, he asks inspectors to prepare pages of evidence. It also said he authorizes investigations on close associates of a high-ranking politician, to replace them with his proteges and puts rivals in less important positions to separate them from their political bases. Reportedly, these tactics have even been used against Wang Qishan, Xi's close friend. According to sinologist Wang Gungwu , Xi inherited
20128-401: The village's production and economic challenges. In 1975, when Yanchuan County was allocated a spot at Tsinghua University , the CCP Yanchuan County Committee recommended Xi Jinping for admission. From 1975 to 1979, Xi studied chemical engineering at Tsinghua University as a worker-peasant-soldier student in Beijing. After graduating in April 1979, Xi was assigned to the General Office of
20276-512: The village, under the persuasion of his aunt Qi Yun and uncle Wei Zhenwu. He worked as the party secretary of Liangjiahe, where he lived in a cave house . He then spent a total of seven years in Yanchuan . In 1973, Yanchuan County assigned Xi Jinping to Zhaojiahe Village in Jiajianping Commune to lead social education efforts. Due to his effective work and strong rapport with the villagers,
20424-502: The wake of the 2008 Sichuan earthquake , Xi visited disaster areas in Shaanxi and Gansu . He made his first foreign trip as vice president to North Korea, Mongolia, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Yemen from 17 to 25 June 2008. After the Olympics, Xi was assigned the post of committee chair for the preparations of the 60th Anniversary Celebrations of the founding of the PRC. He was also reportedly at
20572-492: Was being encouraged to create legislation in line with the Johannesburg Principles, it did not, and the 2003 provisions would have been more restrictive of civil liberties. The changes were: to narrow the definition of "sedition", requiring someone to deliberately commit acts against the government; to add a 'likelihood' clause, requiring a burden of proof; and to add subversion and secession offences. This last addition
20720-494: Was elected as vice president of the PRC. Following his elevation, Xi held a broad range of portfolios. He was put in charge of the comprehensive preparations for the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, as well as being the central government's leading figure in Hong Kong and Macau affairs. In addition, he also became the new president of the Central Party School of the CCP, its cadre-training and ideological education wing. In
20868-422: Was elected to the posts of general secretary of the CCP and chairman of the CMC by the 18th Central Committee of the CCP . This made him, informally, the paramount leader and the first to be born after the founding of the PRC. The following day Xi led the new line-up of the PSC onto the stage in their first public appearance. The PSC was reduced from nine to seven, with only Xi and Li Keqiang retaining their seats;
21016-508: Was experiencing the SARS epidemic . In June, as the city had recovered, the pro-democracy camp mobilised the public to oppose the bill, and on 1 July, the sixth anniversary of the handover, more than a half million Hong Kong residents took to the streets against Chief Executive Tung Chee-hwa and Secretary for Security Regina Ip , who was in charge of the bill. In the evening of 6 July, Liberal Party chairman James Tien decided to withdraw from
21164-526: Was from Fuping County , Shaanxi. Xi went to the Beijing Bayi School , and then the Beijing No. 25 School, in the 1960s. He became friends with Liu He , who attended Beijing No. 101 School in the same district, and who later became China's vice premier and a close advisor to Xi after he became China's paramount leader. In 1963, when he was aged 10, his father was purged from the CCP and sent to work in
21312-407: Was introduced in February 2003, aiming to comply with the requirement under Article 23 that the Hong Kong government should enact national security legislation "on its own". However, the bill was abandoned due to overwhelming opposition, noting the unprecedented number of protesters . The 2003 bill would introduce sedition legislation, as well as offer amendments to the ordinances. While the Region
21460-702: Was one of the toughest challenges for the party. A few months into his term, Xi outlined the Eight-point Regulation , listing rules intended to curb corruption and waste during official party business; it aimed at stricter discipline on the conduct of officials. Xi vowed to root out "tigers and flies," that is, high-ranking officials and ordinary party functionaries. Xi initiated cases against former CMC vice-chairmen Xu Caihou and Guo Boxiong , former PSC member and security chief Zhou Yongkang and former Hu Jintao chief aide Ling Jihua . Along with new disciplinary chief Wang Qishan , Xi's administration spearheaded
21608-483: Was quickly discarded by the Chinese before it could ever come into effect. In September 2002, the Hong Kong government released its "Proposals to Implement Article 23 of the Basic Law" Consultation Document. Consultation lasted until December 2002, being concluded early after protests drew tens of thousands of people against the proposal; concessions were made, but the proposals did not return to public consultation. The National Security (Legislative Provisions) Bill 2003
21756-491: Was the most problematic part of the bill, with the others seen as steps towards protection. The subversion and secession legislation would make it illegal to threaten the presence and stability of the People's Republic of China (PRC) under laws handling treason and war, and also used vague and undefined terms that left the legal threshold for prosecution unclear. Though the bill had been introduced in February 2003, major protest towards it did not happen for several months, as Asia
21904-426: Was the party secretary there for seven months. In Shanghai, Xi avoided controversy and was known for strictly observing party discipline. For example, Shanghai administrators attempted to earn favour with him by arranging a special train to shuttle him between Shanghai and Hangzhou for him to complete handing off his work to his successor as Zhejiang party secretary Zhao Hongzhu . However, Xi reportedly refused to take
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