Cross-Straits pact benefits both sides: Official

The mainland's spokesman on Taiwan affairs called on the island's people on Wednesday not to interrupt the process of a cross-Straits pact that has triggered a weeklong protest in Taiwan.

The cross-Straits service trade agreement is an economic pact that aims to benefit both sides, which should be understood by the Taiwanese people, said Ma Xiaoguang, spokesman for Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, China's cabinet.

The mainland and Taiwan have had economic exchanges for more than 20 years, and the enhanced economic cooperation has brought real benefits for the Taiwanese, he said.

Ma made the remarks at a regular bi-weekly news conference on Wednesday morning.

The spokesman's comments came as more than 2,000 Taiwan residents gathered on Sunday evening to protest the pact.

Some angry protesters broke into the building of Taiwan's executive chamber, smashed windows and clashed with police. At least 110 protesters and 55 policemen were injured in the clash, Xinhua News Agency reported.