Full coverage: 2017 NPC & CPPCC Sessions

(Source: CGTN)

For the first time in his annual work report, Premier Li touched on the notion of Hong Kong independence, stressing that the movement would lead to nowhere. Li added that China would also resolutely oppose and contain separatist activities related to Taiwan independence.

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang delivers a government work report during the opening meeting of the fifth session of China's 12th National People's Congress (NPC) in Beijing, capital of China, March 5, 2017. (Xinhua/Li Tao)

"We will continue to implement, both to the letter and in spirit, the principle of 'One Country, Two Systems', under which the people of Hong Kong govern Hong Kong and the people of Macao govern Macau. We will ensure the principle is steadfastly applied in Hong Kong and Macao without being bent or distorted," Premier Li said.

"We will thoroughly implement the policy related to Taiwan, upholding the One-China principle and safeguard the 1992 Consensus as our common political foundation. We will oppose and contain separatist activities for Taiwan independence and will never tolerate any movements that attempt to separate Taiwan from the motherland," Premier Li said.