Xi, however, warned of problems that have hindered development of cross-Straits ties, saying these problems will require time, patience and joint efforts from both sides to resolve.

Prospects for cross-Straits cooperation will be bright as long as the two sides can agree to oppose "Taiwan independence" and follow the "1992 Consensus", he said.

With new achievements made in the peaceful development of cross-Straits ties, more Taiwan people will realize that Taiwan's future hinges on the peaceful development of cross-Straits ties and the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation, he said.

Lien Chan said the mainland and Taiwan have turned common prospects for the peaceful development of cross-Straits ties into reality step-by-step in recent years with the support of people from both sides.

"The path of peaceful development is a correct path that should not and will not be reversed," Lien said.

He expressed hope that cross-Straits relations can be deepened from a new starting point.

Lien said legal and institutional systems on both sides of the strait have implemented the "one-China" principle.

Taiwan is a part of China and so is the mainland, thus making cross-Straits relations part of the "one-China" framework instead of being state-to-state relations, he said.

Lien also urged efforts to safeguard the "1992 Consensus", seek common ground and shelve differences.

People from both sides should promote brotherhood and mutual understanding, as well as join hands to resist separation and reinvigorate the Chinese nation, he said.

Lien conveyed greetings from KMT Chairman Ma Ying-jeou to Xi, while Xi asked Lien to give his regards to Ma.

Yu Zhengsheng, a Standing Committee member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, was also present at the meeting.

The delegation led by Lien also includes representatives from the island's economic, cultural, education and religious circles.