SHANGHAI - Top political advisor Yu Zhengsheng on Sunday said the Chinese mainland and Taiwan should discuss ways for the island to participate in the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB).

Talks may also encompass the Belt and Road Initiative and some regional economic cooperation, in order to develop the international market and improve the competitiveness of the whole Chinese economy, he said.

Yu, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, made the remarks at the opening ceremony of the 10th Cross-Strait Economic, Trade and Culture Forum, a regular event between the mainland and Taiwan.

The two sides should insist on the peaceful development of relations by adhering to the 1992 Consensus, and oppose "Taiwan independence", said Yu, who is also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee.

"Contact and exchange between young people from both sides will help them realize their dreams," Yu said, calling for better conditions for youngsters living, studying, working or starting businesses on the other side.