Peace and development should be the theme of cross-Straits relations, and the common goal of the people both in the mainland and Taiwan, said General Secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee Hu Jintao Sunday.

Pursuing peace to promote development and cooperation is now the global tide, and both mainland and Taiwan are facing opportunities and challenges, Hu said during a meeting with visiting Chinese Kuomintang (KMT) Honorary Chairman Lien Chan.

"Wu should maintain peace and stability across the Taiwan Straits, promote cross-Straits exchange and cooperation, and make our best to work for the happiness of people on both sides of the Straits," Hu said.