Beijing, April 4, 2025 – The Europe Today: Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for nationwide efforts to enhance afforestation and contribute to the development of a greener and more beautiful China.
Xi, who also serves as General Secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and Chairman of the Central Military Commission, made these remarks while participating in a voluntary tree-planting activity in Beijing on Thursday.
Accompanied by other top Party and state leaders, including Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang, Li Xi, and Han Zheng, Xi Jinping arrived at the tree planting site on the bank of a river in Fengtai District. The leaders joined officials and local residents in planting saplings of various tree species.
Before beginning the activity, Xi waved to the crowd, exchanging greetings with participants. He then picked up a shovel and personally planted trees alongside volunteers.
During the event, Xi interacted with children present at the site, asking about their studies, daily life, and participation in labor and sports. He emphasized that a good life stems from hard work and encouraged young people to develop a love for labor and nature by actively engaging in afforestation and other public welfare initiatives.
Speaking with officials and local residents, Xi noted that China’s forest coverage rate has surpassed 25 percent, and the country accounts for approximately a quarter of the world’s newly afforested areas.
“The ecological environment is continuously improving, and people can feel these positive changes in a direct and tangible way,” he stated.
However, he also acknowledged that China still faces challenges, with total forest and grassland resources remaining insufficient. He urged continued efforts to address these issues, aiming for steady progress each year.
Xi emphasized the need for scientific forest management and the enhancement of ecological quality in grasslands. He also called for the development of industries related to forestry and grasslands to maximize the benefits of afforestation for the people.
“Afforestation should deliver more benefits to the people,” he stressed.
Highlighting the importance of voluntary tree planting, Xi reaffirmed that it is a long-term national initiative that must be passed down through generations to ensure environmental sustainability and prosperity.
