Cross-strait talks pave way for closer cooperation

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Chen Yunlin, president of the mainland's Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Straits (ARATS), holds talks with Chiang Pin-kung, chairman of the Taiwan-based Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF), in Nanjing, east China's Jiangsu Province, on April 26, 2009. This was the third round of talks between them in less than a year. (Xinhua/Sun Can)

He also said he hoped that with concerted efforts, Taiwan and the mainland will benefit more from the international market. The two delegation heads will meet again later this year in Taiwan.

Chen Yunlin, President of Association for Relations across the Taiwan Straits, said, "The primary goal of our negotiations is to accelerate the cross-Strait economic development for common prosperity. It's also an opportunity for the two sides to work closer to get through the economic crisis. This round of talks focuses on carrying out cross-Strait direct flights on a regular basis, cracking down on crime and financial cooperation. The achievements will help boost our cooperation."

Chiang Pin-kung, Chairman of the Taiwan-based Straits Exchange Foundation, said, "The impact of the global financial crisis is an opportunity for the two sides to increase their mutually beneficial cooperation. The opening of Taiwan's tourism market to mainland residents has increased people's mutual understanding. And the realization of the three direct links facilitates the cross-Strait trade and reduces costs in economic exchanges. Today's talks are our third official meeting. The talks will expand the achievements that have been secured and serve as a clear sign of the normal and regular exchanges between the two sides. "