Zhang, also head of the Taiwan Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks at a researchers meeting held by the Center for Research on Cross-Straitss Relations.

Major changes took place regarding the situation of Taiwan and cross-Straits relations in 2016, Zhang said.

"There is difficult work to be done concerning Taiwan affairs this year," Zhang said.

The mainland will resolutely implement the central authority's Taiwan policies, continue to adhere to the 1992 Consensus, which embodies the one-China principle, resolutely oppose "Taiwan independence," and promote cross-Straits exchanges, cooperation and integrated economic and social development, he said.

The official called on scholars and experts to deeply study the uncertain factors and risks in the development of cross-Straits relations, give more advice, and contribute more wisdom and efforts.