Xi Jinping urges implementation of reform but offers no new measures

Xi reaffirmed the ruling Communist Party's leadership in all aspects of society and said reforms should be in line with the overall goal of improving the socialist system with Chinese characteristics.

Chinese President Xi Jinping called on Tuesday for the unswerving implementation of reforms on Beijing’s terms but offered no new specific measures in a closely watched speech marking 40 years of market liberalisation.

In remarks lasting nearly an hour-and-a-half, Xi called for support for the state economy and development of the private sector, and said China would expand efforts at opening up and ensure the implementation of major reforms.

China’s substantial support of its sprawling state sector is a point of contention with the United States.

“We must, unswervingly, reinforce the development of the state economy while, unswervingly, encouraging, supporting and guiding the development of the non-state economy,” he said at Beijing’s Great Hall of the People.