Chinese state councilor Tang Jiaxuan on Monday called for the United States to clearly oppose and firmly discourage "de jure Taiwan independence" and other secessionist activities.

Tang made the remarks in a meeting with a delegation from the U.S. National Committee on American Foreign Policy, headed by its president, George Schwab.

"A proper resolution of the Taiwan issue is the key to the stable development of China-U.S. relations," Tang said. The U.S. side should "see clearly" the danger and harm of "de jure Taiwan independence" attempted by Taiwan authorities headed by Chen Shui-bian, he said.

Tang urged the U.S. side to clearly oppose and firmly discourage "de jure Taiwan independence" and other secessionist activities in order to maintain peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and in the Asian-Pacific region.

"China attaches importance to its relations with the United States," he said, adding such relations were open to new opportunities for development.

Tang said President Hu Jintao would make a state visit to the United States soon, which was of profound significance in promoting the sustained, healthy and stable development of ties and boosting the bilateral constructive and cooperative partnership.

"We are convinced that enhanced consultation and coordination increase political mutual trust and mutual beneficially cooperation in the common interests of both sides and also benefits world peace, stability and prosperity," he said.