Mainland slams DPP authorities for obstructing cross-Strait exchanges

BEIJING, July 8 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese mainland spokesperson on Wednesday criticized Taiwan authorities for distorting the mainland's efforts to boost cross-Strait ties and obstructing normal exchanges. Chen Binhua, spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, made the remarks at a regular press briefing in response to a media query about the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP)'s plan to tighten scrutiny regarding cross-Strait exchanges and bar activities they label as "united front" work. Chen stressed that the united front work has a long history and is open and transparent. It is aimed at fostering broad unity and bringing together all forces that can contribute to national rejuvenation based on shared interests, goals, emotional bonds and a shared future. The DPP authorities have repeatedly stigmatized the united front endeavor to smear the mainland's policies benefiting Taiwan compatriots and cross-Strait exchange programs while intimidating and suppressing Taiwan residents who participate in such exchanges, Chen said. "The DPP authorities should ask themselves whether they still allow any normal cross-Strait exchanges at all," he said. Noting that the mainland's Taiwan-related work has always been guided by the fundamental interests of the Chinese nation and the common interests of compatriots on both sides of the Taiwan Strait, Chen said the mainland remains committed to uniting Taiwan compatriots and respecting the interests and sentiments of people from all sectors in Taiwan. Chen reiterated that the mainland is willing to strengthen exchanges with political parties, organizations and people from all walks of life in Taiwan on the common political foundation of adhering to the 1992 Consensus and opposing "Taiwan independence." The mainland will continue to implement policies that provide Taiwan compatriots with equal treatment, introduce measures benefiting Taiwan residents and businesses, facilitate cross-Strait economic cooperation and personnel exchanges, and enable Taiwan compatriots and enterprises to share development opportunities on the mainland, thus delivering greater benefits to people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait, he added.