Premier Li Peng is to send a largely conciliatory message to Taiwan in a bid to start political talks soon.
In his Government Work Report to be delivered to the National People's Congress on Thursday, Mr Li calls on authorities and residents in Taiwan to boost cross-strait ties in the areas of economy, trade, technology and culture.
'We hope Taiwan authorities will make an early start to realise direct mailing, shipping and trading links across the strait,' Mr Li says.
'The Taiwan question can surely be solved.' Unlike statements in the official media, however, Mr Li stops short of making a direct criticism of the mainland policies of Taiwan President Lee Teng-hui.
While emphasising that political talks be made under the 'one China' format, the premier does not spell out that this China necessarily means the People's Republic of China.
Analysts said this dovetailed with remarks by other senior cadres such as Wang Daohan that so long as Taiwan was willing to come to the negotiating table, the meaning of 'one China' could be left deliberately vague.