China to welcome Taiwanese independence supporters

China has invited newly elected Taiwanese local politicians to visit the Chinese mainland to help improve relations.

The offer comes just over a month after Taiwan's main opposition, the Democratic Progressive Party DPP won a sweeping victory in nationwide local government elections.

The party has said it will continue with its policy of turning Taiwan into an independent state -- a goal vehemently opposed by Beijing.

Correspondents say the Chinese invitation is the latest in a series of exchanges hinting that China and Taiwan may be preparing to resume talks.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service