Take On the Task of Expanding Cross-Straits Relations and Achieving National Rejuvenation* 

May 7, 2014 

The peaceful development of cross-Straits relations is a choice made by the people on both sides of the Taiwan Straits in accordance with the historical trend. As long as we stick to the idea that we are one family, put ourselves in each other's shoes and treat one another with all sincerity, there are no hard feelings which cannot be removed and no difficulties which cannot be overcome between us. 

The overall situation of the peaceful development of cross-Straits relations is stable and can stand the test of any storm. In general, our relations have been improving over the decades, which is a reflection of the trend of history, despite the occasional ups and downs. Peaceful development is the common aspiration of the people on both sides of the Straits, and it brings benefits to both sides. We will not change our policies or measures for promoting peaceful cross-Straits relations, abandon the pragmatic measures of promoting cross-Straits exchanges, cooperation and mutually beneficial results, dampen our enthusiasm for uniting with our Taiwan compatriots in making progress, or waver in our opposition to any scheme of "Taiwan independence." We sincerely hope that our Taiwan compatriots can enjoy a peaceful and happy life in a stable society with sustainable economic growth and improved wellbeing. 

Developing peaceful cross-Straits relations is a long-term and arduous task that calls for deeper mutual trust between the two sides. Mutual trust leads to solutions to many difficult problems. We must create the conditions for expanding contacts in various fields among people from all walks of life on both sides of the Straits, increase face-to-face and heart-to-heart communication, enhance mutual understanding and close the psychological gap between the two sides. 

The prospects for peaceful development of cross-Straits relations are broad and promising, and continuous efforts need to be made to expand them. Bringing the comprehensive reform to a higher level and opening wider to the outside world by the mainland will give a strong momentum and favorable conditions for cross-Straits economic cooperation. Economic integration is conducive to mutual benefits, so it should not be disturbed at any time or in any circumstances. We will try to gain an in-depth knowledge of the real needs of ordinary, especially grassroots, Taiwan people, and take positive and effective measures to take care of disadvantaged groups, so that more Taiwan compatriots can benefit from cross-Straits economic exchanges and cooperation. 

The younger generation is entrusted with the future of cross-Straits relations. We must work out more measures and create more opportunities for them so that they can have more contacts and communication, perceive the trend of peaceful development of cross-Straits relations and that of the great renewal of the Chinese nation, so as to enable them to assume the responsibilities of expanding cross-Straits relations and achieving the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation in the future. 

We hope that the People First Party will adhere to the "one China" stand, continue its opposition to any scheme of "Taiwan independence," firmly maintain the overall situation of peaceful development of cross-Straits relations, and promote the overall interests of the Chinese nation together with people from all walks of life in Taiwan. 

* Main points of the talk with James Soong Chu-yu, chairman of Taiwan's People First Party, and his delegation.

(Not to be republished for any commercial or other purposes.)