Mainland extends condolences over death of Wang Hsiao-po

A Chinese mainland spokesperson on Monday once again expressed condolences over the passing of Wang Hsiao-po, vice chairman of the Taiwan-based Alliance for the Reunification of China.

Wang was a loyal patriot and an outstanding representative among Taiwan compatriots, said Ma Xiaoguang, a spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, when responding to a query about Wang's death.

Wang died of an illness on July 30. The office extended condolences on that day.

All patriots working for reunification should be remembered in the history of national reunification and rejuvenation, said Ma.

"He worked persistently to promote the peaceful development of cross-Strait relations and the peaceful reunification of the motherland, and firmly opposed separatist attempts for 'Taiwan independence' and external interference in China's internal affairs," said Ma.

In light of the complex and grave situation in cross-Strait relations at present, Ma reiterated that "Taiwan independence" is a dead end.