China, Taiwan set for historic talks

Taipei: China and Taiwan are set to meet for historic talks on Wednesday in what is the first formal meeting between them in almost ten years.

A Taiwanese delegation led by Chairman Chiang Pin-kung of the quasi-governmental Straits Exchange Foundation left for Beijing on Wednesday

Speaking to reporters at the airport, Chiang said he was well aware of the historic nature of his mission.

"Our most important goal is to promote peace," he said.

The two sides are expected to focus on economic ties, including a deal that will open to way for regular charter flights across the Taiwan Strait.

The deal is aimed at boosting tourism across the regions.