Xi's set direction for cross-Strait development

BEIJING - Xi Jinping's comments last week stressing peaceful development of cross-Strait ties and vigilance against Taiwan independence have set the direction for the mainland's future Taiwan affairs work, a spokesperson said on Wednesday.

Fan Liqing, spokesperson of the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office told a press conference that Xi's remarks showed the mainland's confidence and resolution on boosting peaceful development of cross-Strait relations.

Speaking during a panel discussion with members of the national political advisory body last Wednesday, Xi called Taiwan independence "the biggest threat to cross-Strait peace and stability".

The president stressed the importance of adherence to the 1992 Consensus, the core of which is to acknowledge that the Chinese mainland and Taiwan belong to one and the same China.

Responding to questions on Taiwan's participation in regional economic cooperation, Fan said, "Enhancing cross-Strait cooperation and exchanges and promoting economic integration will help to create better conditions for the island to take part in regional economic cooperation."