China's top political advisor Wang Huning has called for the high-quality development of the demonstration zone for cross-Strait integrated development in Fujian Province.
Wang, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, made the remarks during a meeting held Sunday in the province's Xiamen City in east China.
Highlighting the potential to leverage Fujian's unique advantages and pioneering role in cross-Strait relations, Wang called for greater innovation in policies and mechanisms to enhance economic and cultural exchanges and cooperation between the mainland and Taiwan.
He stressed the importance of coordinating relevant policies and measures to promote cross-Strait integrated development, and of fostering a more favorable business environment to attract more Taiwan compatriots and enterprises to grow in the mainland.
Wang also underscored the need of normalizing cross-Strait travel and fostering regular exchanges and cooperation. He urged efforts to streamline channels for young people from Taiwan to pursue opportunities and development in the mainland.
In September 2023, China decided to make Fujian Province a demonstration zone for integrated development across the Strait.
China's top political advisor stresses promoting cross-Strait integrated development
Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said on Sunday that Spain will present a proposal to the European Union (EU), calling on the 27-member bloc to break off its association agreement with Israel over the Middle East country's violations of international law in military operations, particularly those in the Gaza Strip and Lebanon.
At a campaign rally in the southern province of Huelva, Sanchez said a government that violates international law or the principles of the EU cannot be its partner.
Sanchez said that Spain would be formally requesting the termination of the Association Agreement during a meeting of the EU's 27 foreign ministers in Luxembourg on Tuesday.
The prime minister added that Spain is "a friend of Israel", but that it does not share the actions of its government, and urged other European countries to join the initiative.
At the campaign event, he also reiterated Spain's opposition to the ongoing conflict involving the United States and Israel against Iran, describing it as a major mistake.
Spain has in recent months adopted a more assertive stance on Middle East issues, calling for greater adherence to international law and multilateral principles in EU's external relations.
Earlier this month, Sanchez said that Israel's military operations in the Gaza Strip and Lebanon are flagrant violations of international humanitarian law, urging the European Union to act decisively to prevent Lebanon from becoming "a new Gaza."
The Association Agreement has been in force since 2000 to provide the legal basis for the EU's trade relationship with Israel.
Spain pushes to end EU-Israel association agreement
