WASHINGTON -- A senior Chinese official said Wednesday that the Chinese mainland hopes to see progress in the steady development of cross-Strait relations.

The Taiwan issue is China's internal affair and should be resolved through equal consultation by Chinese across the Strait, said Wang Yi, director of China's State Council's Taiwan Affairs Office, when meeting here with representatives of Taiwan compatriots living in the United States.

Wang said the improvement and development of cross-Strait relations also need the understanding and support of the international community.

The official, who is on a four-day visit to the United States, said the visit's goal is to conduct timely and necessary communication with the U.S. side on cross-Strait relations and the situation in Taiwan.

Wang said his visit was also aimed at promoting mutual understanding, expounding China's stance and concerns on issues of common concern, as well as urging the U.S. side to take appropriate actions and send positive signals on Taiwan-related issues.

This year is important as the mainland intends to make steady progress in improving cross-Strait relations, said Wang, who also heads the Communist Party of China Central Committee's Taiwan Work Office.