China opposes Taiwan leader Li Teng-hui's visit to the United States under all circumstances, Li Weiyi, spokesman for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, said on Thursday.

The spokesman voiced the opinion in answering a correspondent's question about Lee's ongoing visit in the United States.

According to a schedule, Lee will also deliver a speech on Capitol Hill in Washington D.C.

"Compatriots on both sides of the Taiwan Straits understand what Mr. Lee represents and are fully aware of the serious damage he has inflicted on the cross-strait relations," said Li.

"We oppose Lee's visit in the United States in whatever form or name," said Li, "We oppose him using the opportunity of the visit in continuing to spread destructive views on cross-Straits relations advocating the independence of Taiwan."

Li Teng-hui, former president of Taiwan, was expelled from the Kuomintang party for his unabashed promotion of a unique and united Taiwanese identity and the island's independence. He received a PH.D in agricultural economics from Cornell University in 1968.

Source: Xinhua