Top political advisor vows 'utmost sincerity' in cross-Straits development

BEIJING -- Top political advisor Yu Zhengsheng has pledged the "utmost sincerity" and "greatest efforts" by the Chinese mainland in promoting the peaceful development of cross-Straits relations.

Yu, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, made the remarks Friday when meeting media representatives from both sides of the Taiwan Straits at a summit in Beijing.

"Both sides of the Straits belong to the Chinese nation and are brothers and sisters sharing the bond of kinship," Yu said. "The two sides should work together in promoting the development of cross-Straits ties and creating a beautiful future for all Chinese."

"Guided by the conviction that we are all of the same family, we are ready to share development opportunities on the mainland with our Taiwan compatriots first," he added.

He also expressed a willingness to jointly safeguard the peace across the Taiwan Straits and work for the bright prospect of peaceful reunification.

"We adhere to the 1992 Consensus that embodies the one-China principle and stand firm in safeguarding national sovereignty and territorial integrity and opposing all forms of 'Taiwan independence' separatist activities," he added.

Yu said this year marks the 30th anniversary of cross-Straits exchanges, including between the media. Media cooperation has "built a bridge for mutual understanding between the mainland and Taiwan."

He expressed hope that the media on both sides would enhance their commitment and responsibility to voice for the public, uphold the 1992 Consensus, promote cross-Straits affinity and Chinese culture, oppose separatist attempts and create a good public opinion environment for the peaceful development of cross-Straits relations.