Beijing's top legislature sent out a clear and positive message during its annual session last Saturday saying the Chinese mainland is determined to develop its relations with Taiwan.

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang reiterated that China will continue to adhere to the 1992 Consensus as the basis of its political and economic relations with Taiwan as it seeks to enhance cooperation with the island in many aspects.

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President Xi Jinping echoed Li's statement as he joined lawmakers at the 12th National People's Congress. Xi voiced Beijing's firm stance on improving cross-Straits relations and adhering to the 1992 consensus.

                                                   1992 Consensus

"Only by accepting the 1992 Consensus and recognizing its core implications can the two sides have a common political foundation and maintain good interaction," Xi said.

Under the 1992 Consensus, which upholds the "One China principle," both sides recognize there is only one 'China' - and both mainland China and Taiwan belong to the same China. However, both sides agree to interpret the meaning of 'one China' differently.

                                                Secessionist moves

Amid Xi's pronouncements that he will contain secessionist moves in Taiwan, President-elect Tsai Ing-wen of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) remains silent about her stance on the 1992 consensus. However, she has repeatedly said that she will maintain the 'status quo" in Cross-Strait ties.

Chang Wu-yueh, who works at Taiwan's Tamkang University,  said that Xi's pronouncements underscores the significance of the 1992 Consensus in keeping peace and increasing development of cross-Straits relations.

"Without this foundation, it will be extremely hard to maintain the status quo. Meanwhile, the mainland has steadfast determination to address the issue of 'Taiwan independence'," Chang said.

"Our policy toward Taiwan is clear and consistent, and it will not change along with the change in Taiwan's political situation," Xi told legislators at the opening of the 12th National People's Congress.

TagsPresident Xi Jinping, Premier Li Keqiang, 1992 consensus, cross-straits, china