国内英语新闻:Xi stresses ethnic unity in development

HOHHOT, Jan. 29 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping stressed ethnic unity for the economic and social development in minority areas, while extending New Year greetings to people of all ethnic groups.

Xi made the remarks during a tour of north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, calling people of all ethnic groups to unite to defend the country's northern border.

Xi gave affirmation to the economic and social development through ethnic unity in the region after hearing its government report.

He also encouraged Party cadres to cultivate fine work styles and continue the mass line campaign in order to further deepen reform.

In his tour, Xi visited forestry stations, prairies, enterprises and communities.

Xi urged local cadres to accelerate the reconstruction of a shanty town in order to allow the people living there move to new houses as soon as possible, when he visited Guo Yongcai, 74, who lives in poverty.

In his visit to communities, Xi said that the Communist Party of China (CPC) cadres should work hardest.