BEIJING - Top political advisor Yu Zhengsheng expressed his support for Taiwan businesses on the mainland, hoping that they take root and prosper during a tour of east China's Jiangsu province.

Yu, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), visited two Taiwan companies in Jiangsu this week. Meeting with Taiwan business people, Yu said the mainland will continue to encourage and support the development of Taiwan businesses.

He promised more preferential policies and protection for the interests of the Taiwan business community. He also expected Taiwan companies to adjust themselves to the new economic conditions here and contribute to the peaceful development of cross-Strait relations.

Yu also visited churches and met with local religious people. He urged them to implement the Party's religious policies, unite their followers and stand firm against infiltration.