Motivated by Chinese President Xi Jinping's recent visit, many Xiong'an residents have vowed to continue contributing their bit to the high-quality development of the Xiong'an New Area in north China's Hebei Province into an innovation hub and a model of high-quality growth.
Xi made an inspection tour to Xiong'an on Monday when he visited a relocated enterprise and a local school, emphasizing development priorities and public wellbeing.
Located about a 90-minute drive from Beijing, the Xiong'an New Area is being developed as what China describes as a "city of the future". It serves as a key hub for relocating non-capital functions away from the Chinese capital.
During his visit, Xi toured China Huaneng Group, a major State-owned enterprise that has relocated its headquarters to the area.
At the company's operations and emergency command center, Xi was briefed on its relocation progress, industrial layout, and innovation initiatives. He said the move to Xiong'an should serve as an opportunity for the company to further contribute to building a modern energy system.
Xi also met with representatives of relocated employees, and asked them about their work and daily lives. He encouraged them to take root in Xiong'an and contribute to its long-term development.
"We moved to Xiong'an less than six months ago, so it was truly exciting to have President Xi visit us. As a frontline technician, I will do my best to contribute to building a stronger energy system for the country," said Zhu Fuqiang, a worker in the operation and emergency command center.
"We feel a strong sense of responsibility. During the 15th Five-Year Plan period, we will focus on optimizing our operations and advancing green, low-carbon development. We will train and attract more skilled professionals to grow with Xiong'an and support China's energy transition," said Li Lailong, head of the planning and new energy business department.
Xi also visited the Xiong'an campus of the prestigious Beijing No. 4 High School. Since opening in 2023, the branch has enrolled nearly 400 students, helping newcomers to settle down and raise family through providing high-quality education.
During his visit, Xi entered a classroom and spoke with students, learning about their studies and daily lives.
He called for the school's proven teaching experience to be introduced to Xiong'an, while ensuring students' all-round development and healthy growth.
Xi also came to the school cafeteria, inspecting food safety and nutrition, and emphasizing the importance of student wellbeing.
Before departing, he encouraged the students to stay motivated and grow alongside the development of the Xiong'an New Area.
"Keep up the good work, grow up strong and healthy, and become an outstanding generation," he said to the students.
"He told us to cherish what we have, keep striving, and grow together with Xiong'an. To me, that means making the most of today, working hard, and helping shape the future," Wu Jiaru, a 7th grader, recalled. "My father has been working in Xiong'an for eight years, and he always tells me that this is a place we need to help build. This visit really inspired me, and I'll keep working toward my strengths," said Zhao Yuchong, another student.
"He showed great concern for students who have moved here with their families and how they are adapting to life and studying in Xiong'an. With strong support from our main campus in Beijing, we are committed to building a high-quality school here. So far, feedback from parents has been overwhelmingly positive," said Huang Chun, principal of the Xiong'an branch of Beijing No. 4 High School.
Speaking at a symposium, Xi stressed the importance of advancing both high-quality development and effective governance in Xiong'an.
He called for stronger public services, improved living conditions, and the exploration of smart city management.
Xi also highlighted the need to develop modern industries, boost innovation and foster a world-class business environment.
Residents vow to further develop Xiong'an New Area after Xi's visit
