Liu Qi, secretary of the Beijing Municipal Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC), Saturday met with KMT Honorary Chairman Lien Chan and the delegation he led to a cross-Strait economic and forum in Beijing.

Liu Qi (R), member of the Political Bureau of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and secretary of the CPC Beijing Municipal Committee, meets with Honorary Chairman of the Chinese Kuomintang (KMT) Lien Chan in Beijing, capital of China, April 15, 2006. [Xinhua]

Liu, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, said Lien's trip is of great significance to furthering exchanges between the CPC and KMT and promoting economic and trade exchanges and realizing direct transport links between the Chinese mainland and Taiwan.

He pledged utmost efforts to develop cooperation between Beijing and Taiwan and creating better environment for the study, work, lives and career of Taiwan compatriots in Beijing.

Lien said cross-Strait cooperation and exchanges must be strengthened.

Lien expressed good wishes for the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing and also expressed the hope that Beijing will provide opportunities for Taiwan's young people to visit and participate in volunteer services for the Games.

After the meeting, Liu hosted a banquet in honor of Lien and the delegation at the Beijing Hotel.