one's own country's citizens; fellow countrymen; compatriots
Refers to the people of one's own nation, often in contrast to foreigners or in contexts of national identity.
The government should prioritize the safety of its own citizens.
I feel relieved when I meet fellow countrymen abroad.
Compound of 自 (self, own) + 国民 (citizens, people of a nation). The reading is the standard on'yomi combination.