China Unveils Strategic Blueprint for 15th Five-Year Plan, Marking “Critical Stage” Toward Modernization

China has released a comprehensive strategic report outlining its development priorities for the upcoming 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026–2030), describing it as a “critical stage” in the nation’s journey toward basically realizing Chinese modernization by 2035, according to Xinhua.

The report, titled “The Critical Stage toward Basically Realizing Chinese Modernization – Strategic Blueprint for China’s Economic and Social Development in the 15th Five-Year Plan Period,” was compiled by the Central Institute of Party History and Literature and the Xinhua News Agency. It lays out the framework for China’s next phase of growth, building on the progress achieved during the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021–2025).

According to Xinhua, the blueprint identifies several top-level objectives, including:

Advancing high-quality development across all sectors.

Strengthening scientific and technological self-reliance.

Achieving breakthroughs in comprehensive reform.

Promoting cultural and ethical advancement.

Improving people’s livelihoods and well-being.

Accelerating the “Beautiful China” initiative for ecological progress.

Enhancing national security and defense capabilities.

The report emphasizes that the upcoming five years will serve as a decisive period to consolidate China’s transformation into a modern socialist country. It sets out six guiding principles: upholding the Communist Party’s leadership, putting people first, pursuing high-quality development, deepening reform, balancing the roles of the market and the government, and ensuring both development and security.

Xinhua said the blueprint underscores the importance of innovation, reform, and green development as key drivers of modernization. It also reaffirms China’s intention to deepen engagement in global governance while safeguarding its national interests.

Analysts cited by Xinhua view the plan as a roadmap for maintaining strategic stability amid a complex international environment marked by economic uncertainties and technological competition. The blueprint, they said, reflects Beijing’s long-term commitment to reform and sustainable growth.

As China prepares to implement the 15th Five-Year Plan beginning in 2026, the document positions the country to enter a new phase of modernization that integrates economic progress with social harmony, cultural vitality, and environmental stewardship — priorities that will define China’s path toward its 2035 modernization goals.