BEIJING, June 12 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese mainland has unwavering resolve to safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity, and will not tolerate separatist elements advocating "Taiwan independence," a Chinese mainland spokesperson said Wednesday.
"Sharing the bonds of kinship and a community of shared future with Taiwan, we will work with the utmost sincerity and greatest efforts for the prospect of peaceful reunification," said An Fengshan, spokesperson with the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, at a press conference.
He pointed out that the mainland's firm stand on reunification was clearly expressed by State Councilor and Defense Minister Wei Fenghe in his remarks at the Shangri-La Dialogue earlier this month.
"China must and will be reunified. It is a historical conclusion drawn over the 70 years of the development of cross-Strait relations, and a must for the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation in the new era," he said.
"We reserve the right to take whatever means necessary. This does not target compatriots in Taiwan, but the interference of external forces and the very small number of 'Taiwan independence' separatists and their activities," An noted.
