Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao speaks during a press conference after the closing meeting of the Fifth Session of the 11th National People's Congress (NPC) at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, March 14, 2012. (Xinhua/Liu Weibing)
BEIJING -- Premier Wen Jiabao said Wednesday he hoped deep-rooted common cultural bond would help resolve the merely decades-long political grouches across the Taiwan Strait.
"It's my sincere hope that the two sides will work together to promote people-to-people and cultural contacts," Wen told a press conference after the conclusion of the annual parliamentary session.
The two parts of the ancient ink painting "Dwelling in the Fuchun Mountains," by famous Yuan Dynasty painter Huang Gongwang, was finally put on display as one piece in Taipei last year.
"This showed that the Chinese culture has strong cohesion and inspiration. I wish I could have been able to go and to see it by myself," said the premier.
He expressed his hope to visit Taiwan after retirement.
The political, economical and cultural foundations for "the 1992 Consensus" have been enhanced and popular support for "the 1992 Consensus" has become stronger, said Wen
He said the government will accelerate the follow-up negotiations of the Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA) and expand the business ties between the two sides.
"We will pay particular attention to accommodating the interests of the small and medium enterprises, the industries of local characteristics in Taiwan and the grassroots people, especially in central and southern Taiwan," said Wen.
The premier also said the government will promote financial cooperation and give special care to the Taiwan-funded businesses in the mainland.
