Xi says China's military its 'Great Wall of Steel'

"Security is the foundation for development, stability is the prerequisite for prosperity," he said at the closing of the annual parliament session.

The ruling Communist Party is expected to tighten party oversight over security matters, a move that comes after Xi replaced top security officials with his trusted allies.

Xi on Monday also said China must achieve greater self-reliance and strength in science and technology, a call that comes as the US blocks China's access to chip-making equipment and other cutting-edge technologies.

On Taiwan, the self-ruled island China claims as its own and a major producer of semiconductors, Xi said China must oppose pro-independence and secessionist activities and the interference of external forces.