Senior media figure from Taiwan, Yang Aili, who has been teaching at Shantou University for many years, wrote: "The World Health Organization defines the age group of 45-59 as middle-aged. According to Chinese sociological research, the age range of 35-59 is considered middle-aged. This group has exceeded 650 million people, equaling half of China's population, meaning that more than half of China's population are middle-aged. Adding to this, the reform and opening up since 1978 have lasted for 46 years. Whether in terms of population structure or policy orientation, China is indeed a middle-aged country and can no longer keep accelerating forward. Middle age is a crisis, perhaps a turning point, but more likely an opportunity. However, what remains unchanged is the need to re-examine one's position and future possibilities. This applies not only to individuals but also to the country."
Each development stage has its distinct characteristics. The view that China is a "middle-aged" country is by no means the end of development, but rather a critical opportunity for transformation and upgrading, relying on the resilience and continuous progress deeply rooted in the Chinese people.
The resilience of the Chinese people has long been fully demonstrated in their decades of development. From the arduous beginnings of the reform and opening up, to today's challenges in advancing high-quality development, it is precisely the perseverance and continuous efforts of hundreds of millions of people that have enabled China to achieve leapfrog development in just a few decades. Now, the 650 million middle-aged group serves as the backbone of society, carrying the baton of reform and development. Having endured the trials of the times, they possess both the composure to face challenges and the perseverance to overcome difficulties. This resilience is the foundation for China's response to the "middle-aged transformation."
"Middle-aged adjustment" is never about "stopping the acceleration," but rather about moving forward more steadily. Individuals in their middle age re-plan their direction, and the country plans for upgrades during the transition period. The core driving force behind both is the unrelenting spirit of the Chinese people. This resilience and effort ensure that China's "middle-aged phase" will not be a crisis, but rather an opportunity to accumulate strength through consolidation and open new horizons through adjustment, propelling the country to steadily advance on the path of high-quality development.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1853192083674251/
Statement: This article represents the personal views of the author.