Policies improved for cross-Straits couples

Chinese mainland civil authorities said on Sunday that they are working on a series of policies aimed at improving the well-being of cross-Straits couples.

Li Liguo, Minister of Civil Affairs, said at the ongoing fourth Straits Forum that the ministry is coordinating with other departments in solving some difficulties experienced by mainland spouses living in Taiwan and their relatives in getting pensions.

Li said the ministry will also detail family planning regulations for cross-Straits couples taking up residence in the mainland, clarify policies concerning social security, household registration, and entry and exit.

Official statistics show there are more than 320,000 cross-Straits couples, and the number consistently increases by more than 10,000 every year. These couples has become an important force in promoting people-to-people exchange between the two sides and safeguarding peaceful development of cross-Straits ties, according to the ministry.

Li made the remarks at a seminar on cross-Straits marriage, saying a cross-Straits marriage association has been approved and will be established in the near future.

As a Fujian-based provincial-level service center for cross-Straits marriage was launched at the event, Li encouraged the creating of more service institutions in provinces that have the most cross-Straits married couples.

"We will further enhance direct contacts for cross-Straits couples and their relatives, as well as non-governmental organizations, and encourage more cross-Straits couples living in the mainland to join those organizations to promote friendship and help the couples integrate into local communities," said Li.

The minister acknowledged differences of the two sides in culture, legal systems and social environment, saying that harmony and stability of cross-Straits marriages should be maintained under such circumstances.