Senior Chinese official Wang Huning has called for strengthened efforts to promote peaceful cross-strait relations during a high-level Taiwan affairs conference in Beijing this week. The meeting signals the mainland's continued focus on national reunification through economic integration and cultural exchanges.
As chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, Wang emphasized adherence to the one-China principle and the 1992 Consensus while opposing what he described as 'Taiwan secessionist activities' and external interference. The remarks come amid ongoing efforts to stabilize relations across the Taiwan Strait.
The conference highlighted three key priorities for 2026: expanding opportunities for Taiwan youth to study and work on the mainland, facilitating grassroots exchanges between communities, and supporting Taiwan-funded enterprises operating in the Chinese mainland. Wang noted these measures aim to 'let compatriots on both sides jointly benefit from China's modernization achievements.'
Foreign policy director Wang Yi chaired the meeting, underscoring its strategic importance. Analysts suggest the conference sets the tone for cross-strait engagement this year, particularly through programs targeting younger generations in the Taiwan region.
