Beijing: A Chinese mainland official has emphasized the need for promoting the peaceful development of cross-Strait relations and achieving national reunification. Song Tao, who heads both the Taiwan Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, delivered these remarks in a New Year message to the people of Taiwan.
According to Namibia Press Agency, Song extended New Year wishes and sincere greetings to the people of Taiwan through a message published in this year’s first issue of the “Relations Across Taiwan Strait” magazine. He reiterated the importance of the one-China principle and the 1992 Consensus, stating that in 2026, the mainland aims to expand exchanges and cooperation while promoting integrated development across the Strait. He also emphasized a firm stance against any secessionist activities seeking “Taiwan independence” and against external interference to maintain peace and stability in the region.
Song expressed readiness to engage in dialogue and consultation with political parties, organizations, and individuals from all walks of life in Taiwan regarding cross-Strait relations and national reunification, based on the one-China principle and the 1992 Consensus.
Reflecting on the year 2025, Song noted that cross-Strait relations progressed despite challenges, with growing momentum for national reunification. He pointed to improved facilitation for Taiwan residents traveling to the mainland and a significant increase in young people and first-time visitors from Taiwan.
Efforts have been enhanced to advance the high-quality development of the demonstration zone for cross-Strait integrated development. There has been a focus on implementing equal treatment for Taiwan residents and enterprises on the mainland, while national sovereignty and territorial integrity remain firmly defended.
In his message, Song urged people across the Strait to embrace their historical responsibilities and collaborate to oppose secessionism and work towards national reunification.