Chinese mainland, Taiwan to join hands in battling H7N9

The Chinese mainland and Taiwan are exchanging information regarding the recent outbreak of the H7N9 avian influenza virus. The mainland has promised to share its experiences with Taiwan, while the island's leader Ma Ying-jeou called for cross-Strait cooperation in developing a vaccine to prevent further spread of the virus.

Fan Liqing, spokeswoman of State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, said, "Answering Taiwan's request, the mainland has decided to provide a sample H7N9 avian influenza virus strain to Taiwan. The mainland will strengthen communications with Taiwan on the latest developments. And both sides will share joint efforts to protect the health of people across the Taiwan Strait."

Special report: H7N9 avian influenza