国内英语新闻:Taiwan retired generals' mainland visit enriches cross-Strait exchanges: top political advis

BEIJING, April 7 (Xinhua) -- Top political advisor Jia Qinglin said Wednesday the mainland visit by retired generals from Taiwan has enriched the content of exchanges across the Taiwan Strait and is a sign of improved ties.

Jia, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), made the remarks while meeting with the delegation led by Hsu Li-nung.

Cross-strait relations have seen significant changes in recent years and ties between the mainland and Taiwan reflect a bright future for peaceful development, he said.

Jia Qinglin (R), chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, talks with Hsu Li-nung during his meeting with a delegation of retired generals from Taiwan led by Hsu, in Beijing, China, April 7, 2010.

The two sides should oppose "Taiwan independence" secessionist activities and stick to the principle that the mainland and Taiwan belong to one China to maintain peace across the Strait, Jia said.

Such a situation forms a solid political basis for the development of cross-Strait ties in the right direction, he added.