The Chinese mainland-based Cross-Straits Relations Research Center and the visiting New Party delegation from Taiwan held a symposium on relations across the Taiwan Straits in Beijing Monday.

"The visit of the New Party delegation reflected the strong will of Taiwan compatriots to firmly oppose 'Taiwan independence' and their hope to improve and develop cross-Straits relations," said Wang Zaixi, a consultant to the center.

The 30-member New Party delegation is in the mainland for an eight-day tour with the theme of commemorating the 60th anniversary of the Chinese victory in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression.

Wang said Chinese people, including Taiwan compatriots, won the war 60 years ago despite extremely harsh conditions. A major reason for the victory is patriotism of the Chinese people, who love the nation and are brave in safeguarding national sovereignty and territorial integrity.

"The victory gives an important message to current development of cross-Strait relations: all political figures and parties should put the national interests first on issues relating to the fundamental interests of the Chinese nation, combine efforts to oppose 'Taiwan independence' and promote peaceful reunification," Wang said.

People should treasure the hardly-won peaceful situation across the Taiwan Straits at present and push the development of cross-Straits relations towards peace and stability, he said.

He expressed the belief that the Chinese people on both sides of the Taiwan straits have the wisdom and capacity to properly handle their own problems and will resolutely oppose "Taiwan independence".

Yok Mu-ming, Chairman of the New Party, said the party will always adhere to the position of the Chinese nation, continue to seek peaceful reunification, oppose "Taiwan independence" and work for elevating China's status along with all Chinese people.

He said under the current circumstances, it is necessary to view cross-Straits issues in a broader perspective.

"There's an urgent need to elevate patriotism. We must resolutely safeguard the dignity of the Chinese nation and never tolerate external forces to challenge and threaten the interests of the Chinese nation," said Yok.

Source: Xinhua