Top adviser urges cross-Strait exchanges

China's top political adviser Wang Huning has called for the gradual resumption and expansion of cross-Strait exchanges, while opposing separatist activities for "Taiwan independence".

Wang, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks at the annual work conference on Taiwan affairs held by the Chinese mainland on Tuesday and Wednesday in Beijing.

Wang, who is also chairman of the 14th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, China's top political advisory body, stressed implementing the general strategy of the Party for resolving the Taiwan question in the new era.

The mainland will maintain its initiative on cross-Strait relations, and unswervingly advance the great cause of the reunification of the two sides of the Taiwan Strait during the process of realizing national rejuvenation through the Chinese path to modernization.

Wang emphasized the importance of adhering to the one-China principle and the 1992 Consensus while promoting peaceful cross-Strait relations.

He said the mainland will continue to respect, care for and create benefits for Taiwan compatriots, improve systems and policies to promote their well-being, and promote cross-Strait integration.

Efforts will be made to gradually resume and expand cross-Strait exchanges, make friends with people from all walks of life in Taiwan, and promote mutual understanding between people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait, he added.

Wang also stressed the importance of resolutely opposing "Taiwan independence" secessionist activities and foreign interference, and resolutely safeguarding the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

He called for strengthening the Party's overall leadership of Taiwan work, and carrying out in-depth investigations and studies to promote high-quality development of the Taiwan work.