Biography of Xi Jinping: President of China – 2025

Full Name: Xi Jinping (习近平)
Born: June 15, 1953
Birthplace: Beijing, China
Parents: Xi Zhongxun (father), Qi Xin (mother)
Spouse: Peng Liyuan (married in 1987)
Children: Xi Mingze
Education: Tsinghua University (Chemical Engineering, Marxist Theory & Ideological Education)
Occupation: Politician
Political Party: Communist Party of China (CPC)

Early Life and Education

Xi Jinping was born on June 15, 1953, in Beijing, China, into a political family. His father, Xi Zhongxun, was a revolutionary leader and one of the founders of the Chinese Communist Party (CPC). However, during Mao Zedong’s Cultural Revolution (1966–1976), his father was purged, and Xi Jinping was sent to rural Shaanxi province for “re-education” through hard labor.

Despite facing hardships, he adapted to rural life and later joined the Communist Party in 1974. Xi later studied Chemical Engineering at Tsinghua University and later earned a degree in Marxist Theory and Ideological Education.

Political Career and Rise to Power

Xi Jinping’s political career began in the 1980s when he worked in local government roles in Fujian and Zhejiang provinces. His efficiency in governance and loyalty to the Communist Party helped him rise quickly through the ranks.

Key Positions Held:

• Governor of Fujian (1999–2002) – Focused on economic development and anti-corruption.
• Party Secretary of Zhejiang (2002–2007) – Promoted business-friendly policies.
• Shanghai Party Secretary (2007) – Held a short but influential tenure in China’s financial hub.
• Vice President of China (2008–2013) – Served under Hu Jintao, gaining national prominence.

In 2012, Xi Jinping was chosen as General Secretary of the Communist Party, making him China’s top leader. In 2013, he became President of China, succeeding Hu Jintao.

Presidency (2013–Present)

Xi Jinping has led China with a focus on economic reform, military expansion, political centralization, and global influence.

Key Policies and Actions

1. Economic Reforms and Growth

• Introduced the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) to expand China’s global trade influence.
• Strengthened state-owned enterprises while controlling private businesses.
• Handled economic challenges like the U.S.-China trade war and COVID-19 pandemic.

1. Political Control and Authoritarianism

• Launched a massive anti-corruption campaign, punishing thousands of officials.
• Eliminated presidential term limits in 2018, allowing him to stay in power indefinitely.
• Suppressed opposition, including censorship of the internet and social media.

1. Foreign Policy and Military Expansion

• Strengthened China’s military through the People’s Liberation Army (PLA).
• Asserted territorial claims in the South China Sea and over Taiwan.
• Increased China’s global influence through economic investments and diplomacy.

1. Human Rights Controversies

• Crackdown on Hong Kong protests (2019-2020) and imposition of National Security Law.
• Allegations of human rights abuses against Uyghur Muslims in Xinjiang.
• Strict control over Tibet and religious minorities.

Legacy and Future

Xi Jinping is considered China’s most powerful leader since Mao Zedong. Under his leadership, China has grown into a global superpower, but with increasing international criticism for human rights violations and authoritarian rule.

In 2022, Xi secured a historic third term as President, breaking decades-long traditions. His leadership will continue to shape China’s future, with a strong focus on economic dominance, military power, and global influence.