Children are the future of the country and the hope of the Chinese nation. The growth and well-being of children always weigh heavily on the mind of President Xi Jinping.

Sending greetings to children across China on June 1, International Children's Day, since 2013, Xi has called himself a friend to youths.

Despite a very tight schedule, he has managed to find time to talk to children, visit schools, participate in children-focused events and respond to letters from the children.

Some of the moments the president shared with them offer insight into his high hopes for youngsters – pursuing all-round development and growing into talent for society.

The Chinese leader also took time to join activities with children inside and outside the classroom.

For years, Xi has joined the annual tree-planting events in Beijing, telling the children to cultivate an appreciation of work, environmental protection and thriftiness.

Noting "when the young people are strong, the country will be strong," Xi put emphasis on children's well-rounded development and expressed care about their health and growth in particular.

Highlighting the importance of children's sound moral grounding, intellectual ability, physical vigor, aesthetic sensibility and work skills, he urged Chinese children in the new era to have high aspirations and dreams, enjoy studying and working, be grateful and friendly, and have the courage to innovate and strive.