'People-centered'

Xiong'an has taken concrete measures to turn people-centered governance philosophy into reality, said Zhang Jing, deputy director of the Xiong'an public service bureau, while emphasizing that the planning and building of Xiong'an embodies Xi's idea that "bringing benefit to the people is the fundamental principle of governance".

Key initiatives, Zhang added, include ensuring smooth access to healthcare and pensions, improving employment opportunities and public services, and strengthening support for vulnerable groups, so that both relocated individuals and new residents can live a better life in Xiong'an.

These measures are what make the vision of a city for the people a tangible part of daily life, he said.

The people-centered approach has given form and substance to the vision Xi articulated during his third inspection to Xiong'an in May 2023 — that the development of the new area should bring the people a profound sense of fulfillment and happiness.

It was also during the visit that Xi pointed out that the focus of Xiong'an's development has shifted to high-quality construction, high-level management and high-quality development to relieve Beijing of functions non-essential to its role as the capital.

Xi made the remarks after he experienced this transformation firsthand. Six years ago, he first traveled to Xiong'an by road — a drive of over 100 km from Beijing. In 2023, he arrived there via a high-speed train in less than one hour.

Xi recalled that during his first visit to Xiong'an in 2017, he had looked at the planning map while standing on a ridge in the fields. "Within only six years, Xiong'an has started from scratch and developed from a blueprint to reality. A high-level modern city is sprouting up, which is undoubtedly a miracle."