Qian said he was optimistic about prospects for the development of cross-Straits relations, which have witnessed expanded exchanges and co-operation in economic, cultural and other fields.

However, some political hurdles still exist between the two sides, said Qian, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Central Committee of the Chinese Communist Party.

The major problems are that the leader of the Taiwan authorities still refuses to consider himself Chinese, evades the one-China principle and plays word games that obstruct cross-Straits dialogues and negotiations.

Qian told the visitors "Taiwan independence" will never be accepted by the international community and the Chinese people, including the majority of the people of Taiwan.

The early realization of direct trade, postal, air and shipping services between the mainland and Taiwan is the ardent wish of the people on both sides of the Straits.

However, despite Taiwan's promise to realize this goal within the year, there has been no concrete action to date. The blame for the lack of progress on this issue lies on the side of Taiwan, Qian said.

During the meeting, Qian spoke highly of the media's role in enhancing mutual understanding on both sides of the Straits.

The seven member delegation is on a 10-day visit to the mainland as guests of the Xinhua News Agency.

(Xinhua)