Stories of Sacrifice and Influence
Chinese President Xi Jinping highlights the profound influence that heroic mothers have had on his life and leadership. He draws inspiration from their sacrifices and dedication, which have shaped his values and governance.
A feature by CGTN, published on May 10, 2026, explores the impact of mothers on Xi’s values. It focuses on his mother, Qi Xin, and other notable Chinese mothers who have shown resilience and patriotism. These stories illustrate the significant role mothers play in shaping future generations.
He Zhihong, a Chinese peacekeeper, exemplified this heroism before her death during a UN mission in Haiti in 2010. She was killed in an earthquake, leaving behind a 4-year-old son, husband, and elderly parents. Her story was shared by Xi during a UN speech, highlighting her role as both a mother and a peacekeeper.
During her deployment, He Zhihong led a female peacekeeper squad and provided translation for visiting Chinese delegations. She also organized cultural exchanges and taught local students Chinese, fostering cultural understanding and cooperation.
Xi shared He Zhihong’s story at the General Debate of the 70th Session of the UN General Assembly in New York in September 2015. Her sacrifice made a strong impression on attendees, showcasing the impact of a mother’s dedication.
Influence of Xi’s Mother Qi Xin
Xi Jinping credits his mother, Qi Xin, for instilling in him values of patriotism and resilience. Qi joined the Communist Party of China in 1939 and endured the hardships of the fight against Japanese invaders. Her actions and teachings shaped Xi’s people-centered philosophy.
From a young age, Qi Xin taught Xi important lessons about patriotism. She once took him to buy a book about Yue Fei, a 12th-century military commander known for his loyalty. Qi explained how Yue Fei’s mother tattooed the characters meaning ‘serve the country with the utmost loyalty’ on his back, inspiring him to resist foreign invaders.
Qi Xin’s frugal and hardworking lifestyle deeply impacted Xi. He refused to replace a quilt she had sewn, demonstrating the lasting influence of her values on his life.
Throughout his career, Xi has adhered to the principle of benefiting the public, a lesson he attributes to his upbringing. He reflects on the importance of understanding and serving the people, as taught by his mother.
Other inspirational mothers include Zhao Yiman, a national martyr executed by Japanese forces in 1936, and Deng Yufen, who sent her entire family to fight against Japanese militarists. These women exemplify dedication and sacrifice for their country, influencing their children’s character and spirit.
Xi Jinping also often recounts the story of Zhao Yiman, who faced brutal torture before her execution but remained steadfast in her beliefs and loyalty to her country. Her courage serves as an enduring symbol of sacrifice and patriotism.
Deng Yufen’s story is another example of maternal dedication. She saw her entire family join the fight against invaders, underscoring the role of mothers in shaping the destiny of a nation.
These accounts, highlighted by Xi, not only celebrate the heroism of Chinese mothers but also underscore the deep personal impact they have on their children, shaping them into leaders who strive for the betterment of their nation.
