BEIJING: Chinese President Xi Jinping has said women have a crucial role in a society and must start a new trend of family, as the nation grapples with an elderly population and record decline in the birth rate, Chinese media reported on Monday.
Xi in comments added the role of women had been part of a discussion with the new leadership team of the All China Women’s Federation, which works under the Communist Party.
He was of the view that doing a good job in women’s work is not only linked d to women’s own development, but also related to family and social harmony, national development and progress.
Necessary to actively nurture new culture of marriage
Xi went on to say it is necessary to actively nurture a new culture of marriage and childbearing and strengthen proper guidance on young people’s opinion on marriage, childbirth and family.
High childcare costs, career hindrance, gender discrimination and not wanting to get married are the factors discouraged many young Chinese women from having children.
READ ALSO: Saudi FM Discusses Gaza Situation with Egypt, Jordan and Morocco Counterparts
The number of births is closely linked to marriage rates because official policies make it difficult for single women to have children.
China’s National Bureau of Statistics in January reported the first population drop in six decades and while country’s population is fast ageing.
In the last two years, authorities across China have initiated measures to increase the country’s birth rate including financial incentives and growing childcare facilities.
