Xi Jinping of China: "Oppose Taiwan Independence... People's Army is a Steel Great Wall" (Update)

Chinese President Xi Jinping reiterated his determination to unify Taiwan and strengthen security on the 13th, stating that he will "steadily and firmly advance the great cause of national reunification."

At the closing ceremony of the 1st session of the 14th National People's Congress (NPC) held at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on the morning of the 13th, President Xi said, "We will promote the peaceful development of cross-Strait (China and Taiwan) relations and resolutely oppose external interference and Taiwan independence and separatist activities." He also added, "Achieving the complete reunification of the motherland is the common aspiration of all sons and daughters of the People's Republic of China and the essence of national rejuvenation."

[Image source=Yonhap News]

He also mentioned Hong Kong and Macao, explaining, "Promoting the construction of a strong nation is inseparably linked to the long-term prosperity and stability of Hong Kong and Macao," and emphasized, "We must fully and accurately implement the principle of 'one country, two systems' and a high degree of autonomy."

He further called for improving the national security system and enhancing security maintenance capabilities, stating, "We must comprehensively promote the modernization of national defense and the military," and asserted, "The People's Army must be built into a steel Great Wall that effectively safeguards the country's sovereignty, security, and development interests."

At the same time, he reiterated the importance of China's 'quality development.' President Xi stressed, "On the journey of building a strong nation and national rejuvenation, we must firmly promote high-quality development," and urged, "We must thoroughly implement the strategies of rejuvenation through science and education and building a talent-strong country." Additionally, he elaborated, "We should promote innovation-driven development, green and low-carbon economic and social development, and foster effective improvement and rational growth of the economy to continuously strengthen our economic strength, science and technology, and comprehensive national power."