Hu and Taiwan's president exchange direct messages
Chinese President Hu Jintao and Taiwan's President Ma Ying-jeou exchanged direct messages, since Ma was elected as head of Taiwan's Nationalist Party on Sunday.
Hu sent a congratulatory telegram to Ma on Monday, using the title of General Secretary of the Chinese Communist Party.
Hu expressed hope that the 2 parties would continue to pursue peaceful relations between China and Taiwan. He also called on Ma to jointly open a path for the great recovery of the Chinese people.
Ma responded by saying that he hopes to the continuation of sustainable development and prosperity in bilateral relations.
Neither used their presidential titles in their messages. China considers Taiwan as part of its territory.
The leaders of the Chinese Communist Party and Taiwan's Nationalist Party began holding talks 4 years ago.
But the presidents of China and Taiwan have never held talks.
However, improved ties are drawing attention to the possibility of the two leaders holding a summit. It would be the first time since the separation of China and Taiwan in 1949.
最終更新：2009年07月28日 08:10
