Xi salutes workers, urges unions to be innovative

CHINA: President Xi Jinping paid tribute to outstanding workers and called on the country's trade unions to be innovative and adjust to social changes.

Xi made the speech at a meeting with recipients of the “Model Workers” title at the headquarters of the All-China Federation of Trade Unions, just ahead of International Workers’ Day, which falls on May 1.

He said he expects the working class to set an example in realizing the country's collective dream of national revival.

“Happiness does not fall out of the blue and the dream will not come true by itself,” he said. “We need to be down-to-earth and work hard.”

The working class is a reliable and firm foundation for the Communist Party of China (CPC), as well as a primary force in building a moderately prosperous society, according to the president.

China should lean on the working class in its efforts to develop socialism with Chinese characteristics, he added.

Xi said he hopes all workers will fulfill their responsibilities to the country and combine their personal desires with the national dream.

He also called on society and the public to respect workers and their work.

“We should uphold the idea that working hard is the most honorable, noblest, greatest and most beautiful virtue,” he said.

Xi pledged to protect the rights and interests of workers and ensure social justice so that all workers can live a dignified life.

Senior CPC and government officials should learn from model workers, the president said.

Xi called on the country's trade unions to meet both the expectations of workers and the requirements of the times.

“Trade unions should listen to workers and protect their legitimate rights and interests, including those of transient laborers from villages. The unions should make substantial efforts to resolve their difficulties in order to promote a harmonious social labor relationship,” said Xi.

“The CPC has pinned high hopes on trade unions and workers have great expectations for them,” said Xi.

Xi described the unions’ role as a bridge between the CPC and workers.

“The trade unions are an important social pillar for the regime of a socialist country,” he said. “The road for the development of trade unions with Chinese characteristics is an important component of China's socialist path,” Xi said.

-XINHUA