The traditional Chinese new year is only one day away, and Chinese President Xi Jinping and other leaders on Tuesday extended Lunar New Year greetings to Chinese people at home and abroad.

Chinese President Xi Jinping delivers a speech at a Spring Festival gathering at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China, Feb. 17, 2015. (Xinhua/Yao Dawei)

In a speech to a gathering at the Great Hall of the People on Tuesday morning, Xi expressed appreciation of accomplishments during the past year, including reform efforts, economic development and improvement in the rule of law. He said the Chinese are proud of their country and are proud of the great people. He pledged to create more wealth, benefits and glory for the nation in the upcoming year, adding that the work ethic in the Party and the government will continue to improve. He called on the entire country to keep a sober mind, avoid empty talk, make practical efforts and overcome all challenges.

With the upcoming Spring Festival being an important time for family reunions in China, the president also stressed family bonds and family education.

China's top leaders Xi Jinping, Li Keqiang, Zhang Dejiang, Yu Zhengsheng, Liu Yunshan, Wang Qishan and Zhang Gaoli attend a Spring Festival gathering at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China, Feb. 17, 2015. (Xinhua/Yao Dawei)