Mainland protests against 'Taiwan independence'

BEIJING - A Chinese mainland spokesperson on Wednesday reiterated firm opposition against "Taiwan independence," reiterating the necessity of safeguarding national sovereignty and territorial integrity.

"We firmly oppose any attempts of 'Taiwan independence' including facilitating such attempts through revising laws," said Ma Xiaoguang, spokesperson with the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, at a press conference.

When asked about whether the recent navy drill around the island is a warning against "Taiwan independence," Ma said the mainland has the will, confidence and ability to defeat any forms of "Taiwan independence" and safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity.

"We will not tolerate any 'Taiwan independence' force harming cross-Straits peace and stability or obstructing national rejuvenation," he said.

Commenting on the recent accusation by Taiwan leader Tsai Ing-wen that the mainland tried to change the lifestyle of Taiwan's people and suppress the island's international space, Ma said Tsai's remarks are groundless and aimed at creating hostility and confrontation between the two sides of the Taiwan Straits.

"We all knew that the Taiwan administration undermined the favorable and peaceful development of cross-Straits relations," he said. "We have always respected the social system and lifestyle of Taiwan compatriots and would like to share development opportunities with them."

The mainland has adopted a number of preferential policies to facilitate Taiwan compatriots to study, work and live in the mainland, he stressed.