BEIJING, Nov. 27 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese mainland spokesperson on Thursday warned that the Taiwan question is at the very heart of China's core interests, and that if "Taiwan independence" secessionists cross this red line, they will face resolute countermeasures.

Chen Binhua, a spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, made the remarks when asked to comment on Taiwan leader Lai Ching-te's recent move to unveil a so-called security action plan and his secessionist statements.

China has unwavering will, firm determination, and strong capability to crush any secessionist attempts or external interference, and to safeguard its national sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as the safety and well-being of Taiwan's people, Chen said.

Lai's rhetoric has laid bare his obstinate stance and reckless agenda in seeking "Taiwan independence," Chen said, adding that Lai has become increasingly unscrupulous in provoking cross-Strait confrontation and harming Taiwan's interests.

Taiwan, as a part of China, has never been and will never be a country, he stressed, adding that the cross-Strait status quo is that there is only one China and both sides of the Strait belong to one China -- a fact which has not changed and cannot be changed.

Differences in social systems are not an obstacle to reunification nor an excuse for separation, Chen said.

Peaceful reunification under the "one country, two systems" policy remains the best approach to achieving national reunification, he said, noting that it will take Taiwan's realities into full account, absorb views from all sectors on both sides of the Strait, and protect the interests and sentiments of people in Taiwan. Enditem