Zhu Fenglian, a spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, speaks during a press conference in Beijing, on Oct 25, 2023. (PHOTO / XINHUA)

BEIJING - A Chinese mainland spokesperson on Wednesday slammed Lai Ching-te, deputy leader of China's Taiwan region, for his war-related comments.

The pursuit of "Taiwan independence" signifies war, Zhu Fenglian, a spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, said at a press conference.

Zhu made the remarks in response to Lai's recent statement asserting that if he is elected as Taiwan's leader, the chances of a war across the Taiwan Strait are minimal.

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Zhu added that people who pursue "Taiwan independence" are essentially instigators of war, and it is rascally to tell a lie like this. 

The DPP authorities have colluded with external forces in obstructing and undermining cross-Strait economic exchanges and cooperation, attempting to seek an economic "decoupling," according to Zhu

The spokesperson also slammed Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party authorities for their double-dealing and double-standard acts regarding a comprehensive cross-Strait economic pact intended to lower commercial barriers.

Such a stance has caused uncertainties in implementing the Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement, directly harming the interests of the compatriots in Taiwan, Zhu said.

Though they stated that they did not want to terminate the ECFA, the DPP authorities have colluded with external forces in obstructing and undermining cross-Strait economic exchanges and cooperation, attempting to seek an economic "decoupling," according to Zhu.

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The ECFA has brought tangible benefits to business sectors and people on both sides since it took effect, Zhu said.

To ensure and improve the interests and well-being of Taiwan compatriots, she called for opposing separatist activities that seek "Taiwan independence" and promoting the peaceful development of cross-Strait relations.