China's Xi reiterates desire for Taiwan unification

Chinese President Xi Jinping has stressed his desire for China's unification with Taiwan at an event to celebrate the 77th anniversary of the country's founding.

Xi delivered a speech during the event at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Wednesday, the day before China's National Day. Participants included senior officials of the Chinese Communist Party and ambassadors from foreign countries.

He said China must deepen exchanges and cooperation across the Taiwan Strait, resolutely fight secessionist forces seeking independence for Taiwan and oppose external interference.

This remark apparently referred to Taiwan's Lai Ching-te administration, which Beijing sees as pro-independence.

Xi also called for promoting the peaceful development of cross-Strait relations to advance national unification.

On diplomacy, he stressed Beijing will stick to a peaceful policy, saying China will contribute greater certainty and positive energy to a turbulent world.