Chinese President Xi Jinping has warned that the country is entering a time where risks and challenges are increasing along with strategic opportunities, while uncertainty and unpredictable factors are increasing rapidly in the world. The statement came at a time when the Chinese Communist Party approved the framework of its next five-year development plan (2026–2030).
New development plan made under the direct supervision of Xi Jinping
According to the report of ‘South China Morning Post (SCMP)’, this new plan has been completely prepared under the leadership of Xi Jinping. He personally led the drafting team and supervised all revisions and discussions. This plan was approved in the Fourth Plenary Session of the Communist Party held in Beijing. Xi told senior officials that China should use this “important window of opportunity” to enhance its strength, improve weak links and gain an edge in international competition.
Focus on technology, space and economy
It was decided in this meeting that China will now emphasize on technological innovation, space development, population improvement and economic restructuring. Minister of Science and Technology Yin Hengjun said the country has significantly increased technological investment, and artificial intelligence (AI) will be the main engine of development in the coming years. Along with AI and computing power, the government also called for stronger regulation and ethical standards.
For the first time space sector in top priority
This time, for the first time, China has declared the space sector as ‘top priority’. There are plans for major investment in areas like nuclear fusion, advanced manufacturing and quantum technology. Zheng Shanjie, head of the National Development and Reform Commission, said that the new plan is expected to provide China with new market opportunities worth about 10 trillion yuan.
Population and social reforms also on the agenda
In the new plan, China has reiterated the point of creating a ‘birth-friendly society’. The government will work on improving child care, education and services for the elderly. Along with this, there will also be a provision to gradually increase the retirement age. China is still the second largest economy in the world, but it faces many serious challenges.
After the return of Donald Trump to America, tariffs and technical restrictions have increased the pressure on China’s export capacity. Although China has tried to divert trade to Southeast Asia, the problem of overproduction in industries such as electric vehicles and solar panels remains.
Be prepared for stormy times – Xi Jinping
In a statement issued after the plenum, China said it would have to be prepared to face ‘strong winds, rough waves and dangerous storms’. This warning has come at a time when Xi Jinping is going to meet US President Donald Trump at the APEC conference, where rare earth export and semiconductor restrictions will be discussed. In this meeting, Xi Jinping’s hold on power in the party was further strengthened. He made major changes in the military leadership. Several top generals were removed, including former vice president He Weidong. General Zhang Shengmin, who heads the army’s anti-corruption body, was promoted in his place.
Emphasis on self-reliance and stable development
Analysts say that in the new five-year plan, emphasis has been laid on technological self-reliance, political stability and economic reforms. Xi Jinping is now trying to strike a difficult balance. Dealing with the economic slowdown, restoring people’s confidence and maintaining China’s strength globally.

