BEIJING, Feb 17 (Reuters) - Chinese President Xi Jinping

said on Monday private businesses should strengthen confidence,

and vowed to protect entrepreneurs' legitimate rights and

interests, the official news agency Xinhua said.

Difficulties and challenges currently faced by the private

economy are temporary, not long-term, and can be overcome, Xi

told private business leaders in a symposium.

Representatives from industry leaders including Huawei and

BYD spoke at the meeting, according to Xinhua.