China's top political adviser Wang Huning on Saturday welcomed Taiwan compatriots to share the mainland's development opportunities while urging joint efforts across the Taiwan Strait to resolutely oppose "Taiwan independence" separatism and external interference.

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 at the main conference of the 18th Straits Forum in Xiamen, East China's Fujian province.

Emphasizing that the mainland and Taiwan belong to one and the same China, Wang urged compatriots on both sides to stand on the right side of history, forge a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation, and safeguard their shared homeland.

The mainland will always firmly adhere to the one-China principle and the 1992 Consensus, unswervingly pursue the peaceful development of cross-Strait relations, and advance national reunification, Wang said.

The mainland will continue to ensure Taiwan compatriots enjoy equal treatment and share development achievements, he added.

Chang Jung-kung, vice-chairman of the Chinese Kuomintang, said during the forum that compatriots on both sides share the same roots, and expressed expectations to deepen cooperation, maintain peace, and jointly strive for national rejuvenation.

Popular mainland actor Zhang Linghe, whose recent drama Pursuit of Jade gained immense popularity in Taiwan, delivered a speech at the forum and expressed gratitude for the affection from Taiwan compatriots and looked forward to more exchange opportunities for cross-Strait youth.