Chu eyes enhanced cross-strait collaboration

2015-05-06

Both sides of the Taiwan Strait should shelve disputes and enhance collaboration on the basis of the 1992 consensus, according to ruling Kuomintang Chairman Eric Chu May 4.

“Under the framework of mutual understanding, Taiwan and mainland China must capitalize on increased exchanges in recent years to join hands on important regional issues, including economy, environment and stability,” Chu said.

“With the advent of a new generation, the two sides should move ahead and work together to create a win-win situation.”

Chu made the remarks after his meeting with Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Chinese Communist Party, at an annual forum between the two parties in Beijing. The leaders discussed a variety of issues pertaining to cross-strait cultural, economic and youth affairs.

According to the chairman, Taiwan looks forward to mainland China supporting its efforts to particpate in initiatives like the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, One Belt, One Road development strategy and Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership.

“Over the past 10 years, the forum has provided a platform for in-depth communication, with 153 points leading to advances in cross-strait interaction,” Chu said. “We have succeeded in strengthening bilateral ties and finding peaceful resolutions to past issues.”

Building on such a foundation, the chairman sees Taiwan and mainland China taking into account respective differences while seeking common ground for furthering collaboration.

“Going forward, we expect enhanced cross-strait exchanges to create space for Taiwan’s international participation and pave the way for deepening peace and prosperity.”

Source: Taiwan Today (http://taiwantoday.tw/ct.asp?xItem=230038&ctNode=413)