Chinese Premier comments on Hong Kong, Taiwan

China's premier Li Keqiang reiterated the government's stance on Hong Kong and Taiwan on Friday, in an address to the country's ceremonial legislature.

Li said Beijing would "improve the relevant systems" in Hong Kong to "safeguard national security," but gave no details.

China's ruling party has been tightening control in the city following pro-democracy protests.

The party used last year's legislative session to impose a national security law on Hong Kong under which dozens of activists have been arrested.

"We will resolutely guard against and deter external forces' interference in the affairs of Hong Kong," Li added.

He repeated official promises to promote a "peaceful growth of relations" with Taiwan but announced no new initiatives toward the self-ruled island that split with the mainland in 1949 following a civil war.

Beijing claims Taiwan as its territory and has threatened to invade if it tries to make its de facto independence official.

Li said the mainland will "resolutely deter" any activity "seeking 'Taiwan independence.'"