Sitting down with the president before Chinese New Year

At Li's home, Xi checked on the family's bedroom and kitchen.

"Do you feel cold at night?" Xi asked when touching the quilt on the bed.

Opening the fridge, Xi saw meat and vegetables. There was a hot meal in the wok.

"You have the assurance of both food and clothing," Xi said, nodding at Li.

The president went on to ask about the healthcare of Li's aging parents and education for the kids.

Li said both his parents were in good shape. With medical insurance, the family only had to pay less than one-tenth of the medical bills incurred in the past two years for the older generation.

Li's daughter, Li Lianhuan, jumped into the conversation, telling the president that she was receiving preferential loans and scholarships to cover her college expenses.

"You have only a year from graduation. What do you want to do for a career?" Xi asked.

"I am preparing to sit the graduate school examinations. With a graduate degree, I would like to be a civil servant," she answered.

"That's a great idea. You can certainly make it if you have a strong will," Xi responded.

"I want to study at the officers' college of the People's Armed Police," Li's little brother bared his ambition to the president.

"Great! Build a strong physique and join the armed police or the military! I wish you success," Xi said.

Xi then joined the family to make rice cakes, a traditional Wa means of ringing in the new year, and wished the family fortune and happiness.