China's top political advisor urges efforts to 'firmly support patriots' in Taiwan

​​​​​​​By Saadet Gokce

ISTANBUL (AA) - China's top political advisor urged "efforts to unite Taiwan compatriots and firmly support patriots on the island who advocate reunification," during a work conference on Taiwan affairs in Beijing on Monday and Tuesday, according to state-run China Daily.

Wang Huning said mainland China will "firmly maintain the initiative in steering relations across the Taiwan Strait and ensure that compatriots on both sides share the opportunities of Chinese modernization."

He stressed upholding the one-China principle and the 1992 Consensus, adding that "the mainland will resolutely combat 'Taiwan independence' separatist forces, oppose external interference, and safeguard peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait."

He called for the facilitation of cross-Strait personnel exchanges, expanding people-to-people and grassroots interactions, and supporting Taiwan residents "to study, work and live on the mainland."

Beijing will continue to "support the development of Taiwan businesses on the mainland, improve policies and measures benefiting Taiwan compatriots and enterprises, and deepen integrated cross-Strait development," added Wang.