President Xi Jinping on Monday said China must achieve greater self-reliance in science and technology and further advance the modernisation of the military.

He made the remarks at the closing ceremony of the National People’s Congress annual plenary session in Beijing, as he outlined “the central task” for the Communist Party and the people to build a modern socialist country and to advance “the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation”.

“[We should] speed up and to foster a new development paradigm and further implement the strategy of developing the country through science and education and the strategy of strengthening the country through talent and also promote innovation-driven development. And we should also enhance science and technology self-reliance and strength,” he said.

Xi underlined the importance of security – which he called “the foundation for development”.

“We should further advance the modernisation drive in terms of national defence and military and to turn China’s military into a great wall of steel that effectively safeguards national sovereignty, security and development interests,” he said.

He also promised to fully, faithfully and firmly implement One Country, Two Systems for Hong Kong and Macau, and for their people to govern the two SARs with a high degree of autonomy.

“It is imperative to act in strict compliance with China’s Constitution and the Basic Laws of the two regions, and we will support Hong Kong and Macau in developing their economies, improving social well-being and integrating their own development into the overall development of the country,” said Xi.

On Taiwan, the state leader said China must oppose independence and secessionist activities, and the interference of external forces.

Xi was last week elected unanimously by NPC deputies to his third five-year term as president.