BEIJING -- Chinese President Xi Jinping has extended greetings to the elderly on the eve of the country's Seniors' Day, which falls on Friday this year.

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, expressed the hope that the elderly are well provided for, enjoy their lives, and continue their pursuits.

Xi made the remarks in a letter to representatives of the seniors who participate in a national voluntary initiative.

In his letter, Xi acknowledged that members of the initiative, named "Silver Age Action," have actively participated in volunteer activities in recent years, applying their knowledge and skills, and what they are good at to serve the public.

This embodies the spirit of the Chinese elderly in the new era, Xi said.

Noting that the seniors are a valuable asset to both the Party and the country, Xi urged Party committees and governments at all levels to prioritize work related to the elderly.

China's population aged 60 and above approached 300 million by the end of 2023. Projections suggest it will exceed 400 million by 2035 and reach 500 million by 2050.

Xi urged efforts to focus on addressing the pressing concerns of the seniors, improve relevant policies and measures, foster a sound social environment, ensure their well-being and rights are protected, and enable them to contribute effectively to society.

The initiative was launched in 2003 with the goal of leveraging the expertise and knowledge of senior professionals across different domains to assist in the development of underdeveloped areas.