BEIJING - The mainland is ready to provide Taiwan compatriots with stable and reliable energy supplies once peaceful reunification is achieved, said a spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council on Wednesday.

Chen Binhua, the spokesperson, made the remarks at a regular press conference in response to a question about the risks of disruptions to Taiwan's oil and gas supplies and widespread concern across the island regarding energy reserves and supply security amid turbulence in the Middle East.

Peaceful reunification will create significant opportunities for Taiwan's economic and social development, and result in tangible benefits for Taiwan compatriots, Chen said.

Following peaceful reunification, cross-Strait connectivity will be fully realized, making it entirely possible to address Taiwan's shortages in electricity, natural gas and crude oil, he said, adding that the mainland will also ensure that Taiwan compatriots enjoy more affordable, cleaner and more stable energy supplies. 

93 stranded Taiwanese to return

Chen said that the Chinese Consulate General in Istanbul helped 93 Taiwan compatriots stranded in the Middle East return home via mainland flights.

In addition, the Chinese Embassy in Israel and the Chinese Consulate General in Dubai helped many Taiwan compatriots return to Taiwan or evacuate to safer areas after they sought assistance through channels such as the China Consular Affairs app and hotlines.

The Taiwan compatriots who received assistance said they felt reassured knowing the motherland was always there for them, and personally experienced that people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait are one family, according to Chen.

In response to repeated attacks and smears by Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party authorities against the mainland's care and protection of Taiwan compatriots, Chen condemned the actions as "shameful."