BEIJING, Dec. 25 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese mainland spokesperson has reminded Taiwan compatriots overseas that they can dial "12308," the hotline for Chinese citizens overseas, to seek consular protection and assistance anytime.

Mainland authorities, embassies and consulates overseas are always there for Taiwan compatriots to handle issues including procedures for travel documents, overseas civil disputes, economic and criminal cases and emergencies such as earthquakes, floods and evacuations, said Zhu Fenglian, spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office at a press conference.

According to the 14th of the 26 measures unveiled in November to further promote economic and cultural exchanges and cooperation across the Taiwan Strait, Taiwan compatriots can seek consular protection and assistance and apply for travel documents at the embassies and consulates of the People's Republic of China overseas, said Yang Shu, an official with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, who was invited to speak at the press conference.

"We've always attached great importance to safeguarding the safety, rights and interests of Taiwan compatriots overseas and been active in providing them with consular protection and assistance," Yang added.