The system of "pairing aid" to disaster area formed in the Wenchuan earthquake has become a model for emergency response to disasters and helping the poor, playing an increasingly important role. With the approval of the State Council, each year since 2009, May 12 has become National Disaster Prevention and Reduction Day.

 

A "historical drama" featuring all kinds of help and support from across the country has been staged after the Wenchuan Earthquake. Not only have the impressive engineering projects of post-disaster reconstruction and ever-changing developments left unforgettable impressions on people, those numerous unsung heroes who devote themselves to disaster relief and those countless supporters for post-earthquake reconstruction are much loftier. The people in the disaster areas will never forget their selfless contributions.

 

The Wenchuan disaster area has undergone 10 years of arduous reconstruction, and great changes have taken place. Almost every year during Spring Festival, I return to my hometown to have a look. The changes in Wenchuan are so great that it is now unrecognizable. Wenchuan's pace of development has been so fast that it makes people dizzy. In 2017, Wenchuan County's GDP was 5.575 billion yuan (0.875 billion US dollars), 2.6 times higher than in 2008. The per capita disposable income of urban residents reached 29,472 yuan (4626.6 US dollars), 1.7 times higher than in 2008. The per capita disposable income of rural residents reached 12,243 yuan (1921.9 US dollars), which is 3.5 times higher than in 2008.

 

My hometown has changed a lot. The earthquake brought about great destruction, but the destruction brought about great reconstruction, and reconstruction has brought about great development.　　

 

Wenchuan, my hometown, I used to cry for you, but I am also constantly surprised by you. I look forward to seeing you continue to demonstrate the unyielding spirit of mankind and an infinitely beautiful future!