(CCTV.com)
Updated: 2008-05-29 09:11

The General Secretary of the CPC Central Committee, Hu Jintao, has met with Kuomintang Chairman, Wu Poh-hsiung, in the Great Hall of the People. The two party leaders reiterated their hope for the peaceful development of cross-strait ties.

This is the first meeting between the two party leaders since positive changes took place in Taiwan.

Hu Jintao welcomed Wu Poh-hsiung and the KMT delegation, calling their visit a major event for relations between the two parties as well as between the mainland and Taiwan.

He expressed the hope that on the basis of previous exchanges and dialogues, the two parties can work even more closely together on promoting cross-strait ties.

Hu Jintao said "I hope that on the basis of past contacts and dialogues between the two parties, and taking into account the present situation, we can exchange views on how to promote peaceful development of cross-strait ties, and make joint efforts to realize it."

Hu Jintao also thanked Taiwan compatriots for their concern and generous donations and assistance to relief efforts in Sichuan. He also offered condolences to the families of the two Taiwan tourists who died during the quake.

Wu Poh-hsiung said his visit comes at a time when people on the mainland are busy with relief work. But he said the peoples on both sides of the Taiwan Straits have been united by the tragedy.

Wu Poh-hsiung said "Although no one can ensure there won't be any natural disaster across the Straits, with our joint efforts, we can ensure there will never be war. Indeed, we will push for peaceful, mutually beneficial, and prosperous cross-strait ties."

Wu said the people in Taiwan are very willing to help with disaster relief and reconstruction efforts, and that, together, the two sides will create a bright future.