In photos: China's Xi hardens Taiwan warning as country celebrates week-long National Day holiday

LANZHOU, CHINA - SEPTEMBER 29: Flowers and Chinese national flags decorate the Jinyan Yellow River Bridge on September 29, 2026 in Lanzhou, Gansu Province of China. China News Service | Getty ImagesChina began its seven-day National Day holiday on Thursday after President Xi Jinping used his annual opening speech to sharpen Beijing's message on Taiwan.Speaking at the Great Hall of the People on Wednesday, on the eve of the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, Xi said Beijing must "resolutely crack down on 'Taiwan independence' separatist forces, oppose interference from external forces" and "advance the great cause of national reunification." The language is harder than in Xi's speech last year, when he said Beijing "firmly opposes" independence activities. The shift comes days after Xi's state visit to Washington, where he urged President Donald Trump to outright "oppose" Taiwan independence, and to limit Washington's support for the self-ruled island that Beijing claims its own. That wording would be stronger than the longstanding U.S. position of not supporting Taiwan independence. "It has been speculated for more than a year that Xi would do this,...