Xi Jinping tries to rally support for Chinese dream in nationalist speech
President also vows to crush any bid to divide China in closing speech to NPC
President Xi Jinping has vowed to crush any attempt to divide China, and tried to rally support for his Chinese dream using nationalism and references to the country’s cultural achievements – from ancient literature to architecture.
Xi’s status as the country’s most powerful leader in decades has been cemented during the 16-day session of the National People’s Congress, and his closing address on Tuesday was his first since the constitution was changed to remove the limit on how long he can stay in power.
Xi, whose second term as president was approved with unanimous support from lawmakers, began his speech by thanking delegates for their support and vowing to live up to public expectations.
In the past, the premier’s annual press conference has usually been the focus of attention on the last day of the NPC. But this year, Xi stole the limelight with a 30-minute speech laying out his visions, addressing international criticisms of China, and calling for unity.
“All plots to separate the motherland are doomed to fail and will receive condemnation from the people and punishment from history,” he said, without elaborating.
Xi’s warning came after US President Donald Trump on Friday put a further strain on relations with Beijing by signing the Taiwan Travel Act into law, allowing US officials to visit the island.
