China's Xi talks economy, Taiwan at reception marking National Day

BEIJING, Sept 30 - Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday called for efforts to achieve full-year economic targets while reiterating firm opposition to Taiwan independence and external interference, according to a speech he delivered at a reception marking the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic.• "We should ... deepen cross-Strait exchanges and cooperation, resolutely combat separatist forces advocating Taiwan independence, and oppose interference by external forces," Xi said.• China should "promote the peaceful development of cross-Strait relations and advance the great cause of national reunification", he added.• China's economy has pressed ahead under pressure, showing "strong resilience and vitality", Xi said.• "In the face of a complex and intricate international and domestic environment, we must uphold the general principle of pursuing progress while ensuring stability," Xi said.• China should promote the economy's continued development, "effectively safeguard and improve people's well-being and strive to accomplish the year's targets and tasks", he said.• Xi routinely attends the annual reception held on the eve of China's October 1 National Day and has often delivered an address there. REUTERS