China's State Council held a reception on Wednesday, ahead of National Day on October 1, to mark the 71st anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China (PRC). 

Party and state leaders Xi Jinping, Li Keqiang, Li Zhanshu, Wang Yang, Wang Huning, Zhao Leji, Han Zheng and Wang Qishan, as well as around 500 guests from home and abroad, attended the reception at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. 

In his address at the reception, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang said 2020 has been a "very unusual" year in the history of the PRC as the country tackles challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and global economic recession.

Li hailed the "major strategic achievement" that China has made in fighting COVID-19 as he underscored the country's economic recovery and resilience. He also reviewed measures taken by the governments at various levels to support enterprises, boost employment and ensure people's livelihood during this difficult period. 

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The premier called for continued efforts in regular epidemic control as well as measures to promote high-quality development and secure people's livelihood. He reiterated that China must win the fight against poverty. The country has vowed to eradicate absolute poverty by the end of the year. 

The whole nation should strive to accomplish the major development tasks of the year and complete the building of a moderately prosperous society in all respects, he stressed. 

Li also reiterated Beijing's commitment to the "One Country, Two Systems" principle over Hong Kong and Macao and firm opposition to any attempt to seek "Taiwan independence." 

China is committed to the path of peaceful development but will resolutely safeguard its sovereignty, security and development interests, he said.