January 6, 2011
Taiwan Affairs Office Spokesperson Fan Liqing states at a press conference that the Cross-Strait Economic Cooperation Committee (CSECC) is an organization for implementation of and negotiations on the Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA) and its related content, with the responsibility to handle affairs related to the framework agreement. She also emphasizes that the Agreement covers the main economic activities between the two sides and is closely related to the immediate interests of compatriots on both sides of the Strait. The Committee will be formed of personnel designated by the two sides, and it is an important development in promoting the institutionalization of cross-strait economic relations. According to the functional capacities granted by Article 11 of the ECFA, the Committee will address issues related to the development of cross-strait economic relations in accordance with the approaches of handling easy issues first and difficult issues later and moving forward in a gradual, orderly manner, as to promote negotiations on ECFA follow-up issues.
January 7, 2011
During a meeting with Vice Governor of Shaanxi Province Jing Junhai, Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi expresses hope that Shaanxi Province can continue to develop its unique advantages in areas such as history, culture, technology, education, and energy resources to further strengthen exchanges and cooperation with Taiwan, raising Taiwan-related work to a new level this year. He also expresses support for Shaanxi and relevant parties in Taiwan to jointly hold a joint Yellow Emperor Ceremony for the QingMing Festival, continue to co-host the Cross-Strait Economic, Trade, and Technology Cooperation Conference (Shaanxi), as well as study and support the holding of major cross-strait exchanges and cooperation activities in Shaanxi, further developing the importance of Shaanxi in deepening cross-strait exchanges and cooperation and advancing the western development strategy.
January 12, 2011
The Taiwan Affairs Office states at a routine press conference that opposition to "Taiwan independence" and adherence to the "1992 Consensus" form an important premise and foundation for establishing political mutual trust between the two sides, without which the improvement and development of cross-strait relations would be out of the question. It is hoped that the two sides can establish a new cross-strait industrial cooperation model of planned guidance, policy support, and joint participation by the manufacturing, academic, research, and business sectors. To this end, the two sides have decided to promote industrial cooperation in three trial areas of LED lighting, wireless cities, and city logistics of food. The Office also stresses the hope that the Taiwan side can abolish discriminatory provisions imposed on Mainland students, earnestly and practically ensure the legitimate rights and interests of Mainland students to study in Taiwan, and provide a better environment and better conditions for them to study and live in Taiwan. It also hopes that the two sides can actively create favorable conditions for the negotiation and signing of cross-strait cultural exchange agreements.
January 13, 2011
At the fourth session of the 11th People's Congress of Fujian Province, Governor Huang Xiaojing states that, in 2011, Fujian will actively implement the Early Harvest Program on Trade in Goods, expanding exports of Fujian's advantageous products and increasing Taiwan imports. It will also encourage Taiwan businesses to establish sole proprietorship medical institutions in Fujian, promote the mutual establishment of operations and business cooperation between financial institutions in Fujian and Taiwan, establish a cross-strait regional financial service center in Xiamen and Fuzhou, and promote the expansion and addition of areas in the Taiwanese investment zone.
January 18, 2011
In a speech at the Ninth Symposium on Cross-Strait Relations, Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi states that deepening cross-strait cultural exchanges and cooperation requires work by compatriots on both sides of the Strait in the following areas: jointly passing on the fine traditions of Chinese culture, jointly shaping the image of Chinese culture of the times, jointly establishing the ethnic and cultural identity of compatriots on both sides of the Strait, and jointly promoting cross-strait cultural exchanges and cooperation.
January 19, 2011
In an article entitled "Consolidating Foundations, Staying the Course, and Enriching Significance" published in the first 2011 issue of Relations Across the Taiwan Straits magazine, Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi indicates that, in 2011, the two sides should: 1. Consolidate a political foundation. The most important aspect of this foundation is to jointly oppose "Taiwan independence" as well as acknowledge and adhere to the "1992 Consensus"; 2. Maintain the correct course. At present, it means to continue to promote the peaceful development of cross-strait relations. To this end, the two sides should continue to accumulate mutual trust, eliminate interference, promote benign interactions, and advance face-to-face; and 3. Enrich development significance, including in all areas of cross-strait exchanges and cooperation. The Mainland side hopes to work with Taiwan to implement the follow-up agendas to the Cross-Strait Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA), develop mechanisms for cross-strait cultural and education exchanges and cooperation, and further expand mutual contacts between the people on both sides in various sectors.
January 26, 2011
The Taiwan Affairs Office states at a routine press conference that, in the current phase, it continues to promote the peaceful development of cross-strait relations under the thinking of handling easy issues first and difficult issues later, dealing with economic issues first and political issues later, and moving forward in a gradual, orderly manner. It is hoped that the KMT-CPC platform can continue to fully serve its important and unique role in promoting the peaceful development of cross-strait relations. The two sides are now promoting cross-strait economic cooperation and work related to follow-up negotiations to the Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA). They are also continuing to smoothly implement the Early Harvest Plan and strengthen cross-strait exchanges. This will be the major direction of work in 2011.
January 30, 2011
At the 2011 Working Conference on Taiwan Affairs, Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference Jia Qinglin emphasizes that local agencies must thoroughly carry out this year's Taiwan-related work according to the demands of the central government, as well as constantly consolidate and strengthen the political, economic, cultural, and public opinion foundation for the development of cross-strait relations. He also states that mainland China will continue to promote all work following the basic line of thinking of handling easy issues first and difficult issues later, dealing with economic issues first and political issues later, and moving forward in a gradual, orderly manner. The two sides should promote cross-strait mutual trust and maintain benign interactions on the political foundation of opposing “Taiwan independence” and adhering firmly to the "1992 Consensus."
January 31, 2011
In a Lunar New Year message to Taiwan compatriots, Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi states that mainland China will make the utmost effort on all affairs beneficial to Taiwan compatriots. It will continue to maintain a people-oriented goal of benefiting the public, expand cross-strait exchanges and contacts, deepen mutually beneficial cross-strait cooperation, and thoroughly implement and realize the Cross-Strait Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA).
February 14, 2011
Fujian announces the "Fujian Province Medium- and Long-term Education Reform and Development Planning Guidelines (2010-2020)." The guidelines state that the new campus of the Fuzhou District University and Fuzhou (Pingtan) Comprehensive Experimental Zone would establish a cross-strait education cooperation pilot park to attract cooperation cases between upper-tier institutions of higher learning on the two sides of the Strait, as well as jointly establish scientific research centers and centers for commercializing (incubating) scientific and technological achievements.
February 15, 2011
Xu Mang, director of the Department of Economy, Taiwan Affairs Office, states in an interview that, in the new year, the Mainland side will actively realize the Cross-Strait Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA), as well as carry out talks with Taiwan on each follow-up agreement and seek to sign such agreements. It will also work hard to continue deepening and developing cross-strait economic exchanges and cooperation.
February 23, 2011
The Taiwan Affairs Office states during a regular press conference that the Cross-Strait Economic Cooperation Committee (CSECC) has established a new platform for institutionalized negotiations in cross-strait economic and trade fields. It hopes that the representatives of the two sides can appropriately handle issues emerging in the course of cross-strait economic development, as well as new problems resulting from the implementation of the Agreement in accordance with the thinking of easy issues first and difficult issues later and moving forward in a gradual and orderly manner. Regarding specific plans for SEF-ARATS talks this year, the SEF and the ARATS can discuss and finalize this according to their actual needs and the progress in negotiations on concrete issues. As for the issue involving 14 Taiwan suspects of fraud, the Taiwan Affairs Office expresses hope that the two sides can discuss follow-up handling of related affairs through suitable channels in a way beneficial to upholding the peaceful development of cross-strait relations, maintaining the order of cross-strait exchanges and contacts, protecting the interests of compatriots, deepening cross-strait cooperation on fighting crime, and enhancing judicial mutual assistance. It also states that this year, it will further promote the normalization and institutionalization of cross-strait cultural and educational exchanges.
March 1, 2011
At the Second Cross-Strait Forum, Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi expresses hope that the various sectors on both sides can create more exchange platforms which are consistent with their respective characteristics and which embody local advantages, thereby forming a comprehensive, multi-level, and mechanism-based cross-strait exchange structure to provide stable and reliable institutional guarantees for private exchanges between the two sides. He also hopes that, in the future, further efforts can be made in the following directions regarding cross-strait exchanges: 1) mutual exchanges should be broader and span regions, sectors, party lines, and ideologies; 2) exchanges should be more in-depth, both seeking common ground and assimilating differences; and 3) exchanges should be more enduring.
March 8, 2011
During the Taiwan Delegation Plenary Meeting at the Fourth Session of the Eleventh National People's Congress, Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi states that, for the first time, the Mainland's Five-Year Plan includes a chapter dedicated to elaborating on cross-strait relations. It not only clearly indicates the development course of cross-strait economic relations over the next few years, but also explicitly states the focal areas and main content of deepening cross-strait economic cooperation, providing guiding principles for cross-strait economic and trade cooperation promotion. The current focal work areas are: 1) to comprehensively promote various follow-up talks to the Cross-Strait Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA); 2) to vigorously develop extensive cross-strait exchanges in various fields and on various levels; and 3) to take practical measures to enable more compatriots on both sides of the Strait, especially the grassroots public in Taiwan, to benefit more from the fruits of the peaceful development of cross-strait relations.
March 16, 2011
Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council states at a regular press conference that, from 2011, institutes of higher education in the Mainland will expand the scope of Taiwan high school graduates qualified for exam-free enrollment from students with the top academic scores to students among the top percentile on the College Entrance Examination. Regarding the strengthening of cross-strait economic cooperation, the priority is to actively realize the implementation of the Cross-Strait Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA). The next is to comprehensively deepen cross-strait economic cooperation by expanding trade, encouraging investment, advancing cooperation in emerging industries, finance, and other modern service sectors, and strengthening intellectual property rights protection. The third is to promote the establishment of the Economic Zone on the West Coast of the Taiwan Strait. Exchange channels on nuclear safety between specialized institutions on the two sides have always been smooth. In the future, the content of issues negotiated between the SEF and the ARATS will progressively increase based on actual needs presented by cross-strait developments.
March 25, 2011
During a meeting with a KMT Youth Corps delegation, Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi emphasizes that consensus has been reached on some basic issues in cross-strait relations. This consensus includes three points: First, both the two sides oppose any form of Taiwan independence, meaning they oppose territory separation, uphold stability in the Taiwan Strait, and safeguard the overall fundamental interests of the Chinese people. Secondly, the two sides embody the 1992 Consensus of "One China." Although each side has a different interpretation of the meaning of "One China," they can seek common ground while keeping differences. This is the very essence of the 1992 Consensus. Third, the two sides have agreed to actively, pragmatically, and steadily carry out cross-strait negotiations and exchanges and expand mutually beneficial cooperation in various fields.
March 30, 2011
At a regular press conference, the Taiwan Affairs Office states that currently mainland China still adheres to the spirit of "building mutual trust, shelving controversies, seeking common ground, and jointly creating a win-win outcome" and gradually advances cross-strait negotiations and the development of cross-strait relations by addressing "economic issues first and political issues later, easy issues first and difficult issues later." The political issues are ultimately inevitable, and the two sides should confront these issues, gradually finding a solution and creating conditions. The Office also states that, exchange channels on nuclear safety between specialized institutions on the two sides are smooth, and both sides can propose communications and discussions if needed. On the basis of maintaining the steady progress of institutionalized cross-strait negotiations, the SEF and the ARATS can discuss and decide on this issue during the seventh talks according to actual needs and progresses in talks on concrete issues.
April 4, 2010
In an interview with Yazhou Zhoukan in Tokyo on March 18, Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi states that the Mainland currently has no timetable for political negotiations. Regarding the resolution of political differences, it would be better to begin with discussions between scholars and experts from the two sides and slowly form consensus. On the foundation of adhering to the one China principle, any problems can be discussed. The Mainland side first intends to continue to deepen cross-strait economic cooperation, focusing on the prompt negotiation and signing of the Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA). Next will be vigorous development of cultural and education exchanges. Third will see robust promotion of exchanges between the people on the two sides. Fourth will be to actively strengthen and perfect various policy measures. And fifth is to steadily deepen mutual political trust across the Strait through equal negotiations.
April 6, 2010
During a meeting with a visiting mission of retired high-ranking generals of the Taiwan New Alliance, Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi states that in order to maintain the correct course and good momentum in the peaceful development of cross-strait relations, it is necessary to constantly deepen cross-strait mutual political trust, steadily advance a sense of ethnic identity among compatriots on both sides of the Strait, and continuously strengthen cross-strait exchanges and cooperation in various fields.
April 7, 2010
During a meeting with a visiting mission of retired high-ranking generals of the Taiwan New Alliance, Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) Chairman Jia Qinglin states that the PRC will continue to adhere to the spirit of building mutual trust, shelving controversies, seeking common ground while reserving differences, and jointly creating a win-win outcome. In line with the thinking of focusing on economic issues first and political issues later, easy issues first and difficult issues later, and moving forward in a gradual, orderly manner, the PRC will promote continued benign interactions and deepen mutual political trust across the Strait, work together with compatriots in various fields on both sides, consolidate and develop current comprehensive exchanges, overcome obstacles, eliminate interference, and promote the steady development of cross-strait relations.
April 8, 2010
At the China Xiamen Machinery and Electronics Exhibition (CXMEE), Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council Deputy Director Zheng Lizhong expresses hope that the two sides can treat each other with sincerity, move towards the same direction, accelerate negotiations, work to promptly sign the cross-strait Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA), and jointly promote the development of the Mainland and that of Taiwan. The two sides should adhere firmly to equal negotiations, work for mutual benefit and a win-win situation, and be attentive to the deep concerns of the other side. The utmost effort should be made to prevent the signing of the ECFA from affecting Taiwan's vulnerable industries and small and medium enterprises.
April 10, 2010
During a meeting with Fredrick Chien, top advisor to the Cross-Straits Common Market Foundation, PRC Vice President Xi Jinping states that advancing ethnic identity among compatriots on both sides of the Strait is a fundamental guarantee for the peaceful development of cross-strait relations and should become a theme in the development of cross-strait relations. The two sides should constantly enrich the content of cooperation, expand cooperation coverage, innovate cooperation modes, and establish complete cooperation mechanisms. The two sides also should take active measures to promote new types of industrial cooperation, broaden two-way investment, and strengthen exchanges and cooperation in financial service industry and other fields.
April 10, 2010
During a meeting with Fredrick Chien, top advisor to the Cross-Straits Common Market Foundation, at the Boao Forum for Asia, Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi states that the closer cross-strait economic cooperation is and the more institutionalized cross-strait economic contacts are, the more beneficial it will be to promote joint development of the cross-strait economy.
April 14, 2010
The Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) states at a press conference that this year, Mainland universities will not require admission testing for Taiwan high school graduates scoring at the top level on Taiwan's basic academic aptitude tests. The TAO also states that the two sides have agreed to accelerate progress in promoting the negotiation and signing of the cross-strait Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA) and hold the third round of negotiations in the Mainland at the earliest possible date. During the second round of negotiations, the Mainland side did not ask the Taiwan side to further open up its markets to Mainland agricultural products. Agricultural products also will not be included in the early harvest plan.
April 27, 2010
The Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) states at a press conference that it supports the holding of negotiations on the establishment of a cross-strait currency settlement mechanism. In the current phase, priority should be placed on issues related to the handling of cash currency exchange, supply and remittance operations. The TAO also expresses hope that related parties in Taiwan can formulate policies and measures beneficial to the development of cross-strait education exchanges and cooperation, so that further progress can be achieved in this field.
April 28, 2010
At the opening ceremony for the 2010 Cross-Strait Entrepreneurs Purple Mountain Summit, Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi states that opposing "Taiwan independence" and adhering to the "1992 Consensus" form an important political foundation for improving and developing cross-strait relations, as well as provide sustainable and reliable political protection for cross-strait economic cooperation.
May 1, 2011
The Fujian Provincial Department of Education states that it will accelerate development of an experimental park for cross-strait education cooperation. The park will create a base for cross-strait vocational education resources and the training of vocational education instructors. It will also be used to explore new approaches to promoting mutual recruitment of students, mutual recognition of academic records and credits, and mutual employment of teachers between institutions of higher education in Fujian and Taiwan, providing new models and new experience for cross-strait exchanges and cooperation on higher education.
May 7, 2011
At the opening ceremony of the Seventh Cross-Strait Economic, Trade, and Cultural Forum, member of the Politburo Standing Committee of the Communist Party of China Jia Qinglin states in a speech that, on the joint political foundation of opposing "Taiwan independence" and adhering to the "1992 Consensus," the two sides are strengthening mutual trust and maintaining an environment necessary for cross-strait exchanges, cooperation, consultations, and negotiations. He also presents four suggestions: the first is to promote the mechanism-based progress of cross-strait economic cooperation with implementing the Cross-Strait Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA) as the main line; the second is to upgrade the level of cross-strait economic cooperation by transforming economic development methods; the third is to heighten cross-strait economic cooperation rooted in advancing the welfare of the people on both sides of the Strait; and the fourth is to maintain the environment for cross-strait economic cooperation with a focus on ensuring the overall peaceful development of cross-strait relations.
May 8, 2011
At the closing ceremony of the Seventh Cross-Strait Economic, Trade, and Cultural Forum, Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi states that the Mainland has started to implement the Twelfth Five-Year Plan, and the "Golden Decade" development blueprint on the Taiwan side is also taking shape. Both sides regard the promotion of cross-strait economic cooperation as an important matter to realize joint development and co-prosperity across the Taiwan Strait. He also calls on the two sides to earnestly take practical actions and work for the well-being of compatriots on both sides of the Strait, so as to promote the peaceful development of cross-strait relations to benefit more sectors on both sides, especially the grassroots public. Moreover, the two sides should place emphasis on strengthening cross-strait youth exchanges, more vigorously advancing cross-strait cultural and educational exchanges and cooperation and constantly strengthening the shared identity of the Chinese people.
May 10, 2011
During a meeting with Kuomintang honorable Chairman Wu Poh-hsiung, CPC General Secretary Hu Jintao states that the two sides must adhere to the "1992 Consensus" which embodies the one China principle and continue to resolutely oppose separatist activities aimed at "Taiwan independence." On a common political foundation, the two sides should build mutual trust, and then seek common ground and begin benign interactions. At the same time, the two sides should vigorously promote cross-strait cultural and educational exchanges, emphasize and strengthen cross-strait youth exchanges, reinforce Chinese culture and Chinese identity, and continue to ensure that the public in Taiwan enjoys the benefits of cross-strait exchanges and cooperation at a grassroots level.
May 11, 2011
The Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council states at a press conference that the Straits Forum will be held on a normalized basis from this year — annually over a seven-day period starting from the second Saturday in June. It also emphasizes that the "1992 Consensus" serves as an important foundation for the establishment of cross-strait political mutual trust and the development of consultations and negotiations. If this foundation is avoided or denied, cross-strait negotiations and the peaceful development of cross-strait relations would be out of the question. Regarding the World Health Organization (WHO) incident involving the dwarfing of Taiwan, the Mainland hopes that the Taiwan side can objectively and calmly regard the definition of the name in which it participates in the World Health Assembly (WHA). The Office also states that it is because of the Mainland's goodwill that the WHO Secretariat invited Chinese Taipei's Department of Health to participate in the WHA.
May 19, 2011
During a media interview in Toronto, Taiwan Affairs Office Deputy Director Sun Yafu states that all overseas Chinese, whether from the Mainland or from Taiwan, should not only seek common ground but also hasten the assimilation of differences and jointly promote the development of cross-strait relations under the one China framework. He also emphasizes that adherence to the "1992 Consensus" and opposition to Taiwan independence are the most important factors in consolidating the foundation for the development of cross-strait relations.
May 25, 2011
The Taiwan Affairs Office states at a press conference that it will hold a seminar with related agencies and the heads of the Association of Taiwan Investment Enterprises on the Mainland and Taiwan’s Chinese National Federation of Industries. The seminar will provide explanations on issues of deep concern to Taiwan businesses, including land use, customs, taxation, financing, personal safety, and dispute resolution. In the future, this approach will continue to be systematized and provide a channel for resolving the difficulties faced by Taiwan businesses. Furthermore, the two sides are currently consolidating the political foundation for the peaceful development of cross-strait relations, seeking common ground and benign interactions, avoiding highlighting differences, and diligently watching out for and appropriately handling problems that may occur.
June 1, 2011
The Fujian High People's Court issues a service guarantee on the implementation of the Economic Zone on the West Coast of the Taiwan Strait Development Plan, requiring that all courts in the province truly implement Taiwan-related judicial cooperation agreements reached by the courts in Fujian, Zhejiang, Guangdong, and Jiangxi provinces and strengthen advance trials on Taiwan-related trials and judicial exchanges and cooperation.
June 12, 2011
At the Third Straits Forum held in Xiamen, permanent member of the Politburo Standing Committee of the Communist Party of China Jia Qinglin raises hope of five points: to practically consolidate a political foundation for the peaceful development of cross-strait relations, to constantly expand the fruits from the peaceful development of cross-strait relations, to endeavor to promote policy measures to improve the livelihood of the people, to strive to promote cross-strait connections and mutual assistance at the grassroots level, and to actively seize the rare opportunity to vigorously develop the Economic Zone on the West Coast of the Taiwan Strait.
June 12, 2011
At the Third Straits Forum in Xiamen, Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi states that "focusing on the grassroots level and sharing results" is the main substance of the guiding policy for developing cross-strait relations and new initiatives will be carried out to this end. The first is to actively implement measures to facilitate contact between the people on both sides. The second is to introduce measures to expand and deepen cross-strait exchanges and cooperation. The third is to earnestly take good and practical actions for the well being of the people on both sides. And the fourth is to urgently address issues of concern to the grassroots public on both sides. So long as the two sides continue to adhere to the "1992 Consensus" and firmly oppose any "Taiwan independence" actions, cross-strait relations will be able to advance on a steady footing.
June 12, 2011
At the opening ceremony of the Third Cross-Strait Publishing Industry Development Forum, the General Administration of Press and Publication announces five advance trial policies in Fujian: first, to allow Taiwan service providers to establish packaging and decoration printing enterprises in Fujian Province with a minimum paid-in capital requirement same as that for domestic enterprises; second, to allow Taiwan service providers to establish sole proprietorship, joint venture, or cooperative service companies in Fujian Province to provide pre-printing services such as proofreading, designing, and typesetting; third, to allow Taiwan service providers to provide distribution services in Fujian Provence for audio-visual products (including post-movie production products) on a sole proprietorship or joint venture basis; fourth, to allow Taiwan businesses to establish sole proprietorship, joint venture, or cooperative enterprises in Fujian to engage in the production of audio-visual products; and fifth, Fujian Province is to recognize proof of copyright ownership issued by related institutions in Taiwan for Taiwan copyrighted products.
June 15, 2011
Taiwan Affairs Office Spokesperson states at a press conference that from July 1 this year, mainland China will comprehensively reduce fees for endorsements to and from mainland China as well as residence endorsements in the Mainland for persons from Taiwan. The Office also emphasizes that the progress and results achieved to date through the peaceful development of cross-strait relations have all been realized on the foundation of identifying with and embodying the "One China Principle" under the "1992 Consensus." Regarding the first group of Mainland students to be admitted to Taiwan universities, the Office states that the situation is generally good, and it hopes the Taiwan side can create a good environment and sound conditions for Mainland students to study in Taiwan.
June 22, 2011
The Mainland side announces that the policy allowing Mainland residents to travel independently to Taiwan for tourism will be officially implemented on June 28. The Mainland's National Tourism Administration also issues the "Notes on Mainland Residents Traveling Independently to the Taiwan Area."
June 29, 2011
Taiwan Affairs Office Spokesperson states at a press conference that the Office hopes the two sides can, based on the spirit of "building mutual trust, shelving disputes, seeking common ground, and jointly creating a win-win outcome," further consolidate a common political foundation, appropriately handle political differences, and promote the constant advance of peaceful development of cross-strait relations. It also hopes that the Cross-Strait Economic Cooperation Committee and its various working groups will promptly complete negotiations on various agreements based on the principles of reciprocity, mutual benefit, and moving forward in a gradual, orderly manner. Furthermore, it emphasizes that cross-strait relationship has never been a"state-to-state" one. The basis for the development of cross-strait relations is that both the Mainland and Taiwan belong to "One China." Insistence on denying the One China framework and stubbornly adhering to the separatist position of "Taiwan independence" with "one country on each side" will only undermine the peaceful development of cross-strait relations.
July 4, 2011
The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government announces plans to establish the "Hong Kong Economic, Trade and Cultural Office" in Taiwan this year.
July 6, 2011
At the Opening Ceremony of the Fourth Tianjin-Taiwan Investment Cooperation Conference, Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi emphasizes that the main focus of the Mainland's Taiwan policy is directed at the great number of Taiwanese compatriots. This year, cross-strait relations should "seek progress with stability," meaning that both sides should stabilize and consolidate the common political foundation of opposing "Taiwan independence" and adhering to the "1992 Consensus."
July 7, 2011
During a meeting with Taichung Mayor Jason Hu, Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi indicates that city and county exchanges are an important part of major exchanges between various sectors on both sides. They are beneficial to the development of benign cross-strait interactions at the grassroots level, promoting mutual understanding between the people on both sides, mutually sharing urban-rural development and management experience, and laying a social foundation for the peaceful development of cross-strait relations.
July 17, 2011
At the 11th session of the eighth provincial committee meeting, Secretary of CPC Fujian Provincial Committee Sun Chunlan states that in order to strengthen mutual linkages between the "Twelfth Five-Year Plan" and Taiwan's "Golden Decade" blueprint, Fujian will make new breakthroughs in implementing the ECFA, accelerating the development of business incubation parks for Taiwan farmers, and establishing a cross-strait financial service center. Moreover, using the successful experience of the Straits Forum, it will promote the establishment of mechanisms for two-way interactions between various industries in Fujian and Taiwan to form counterpart cooperation and normal contacts.
July 27, 2011
During a meeting with Taiwan representatives in the greater Washington D.C. area, Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi states that the Taiwan issue is mainland China's internal affair and should be resolved through equal negotiations between the Chinese people on both sides of the Strait. Moreover, the improvement and development of cross-strait relations requires understanding and support of the international community.
July 29, 2011
During a meeting with Taiwan representatives in the U.S. at the Consulate General of the People's Republic of China in Chicago, Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi states that the Mainland side's main view on cross-strait relations can be summed up as "Three 'Joints'." First, the fruits of the peaceful development of cross-strait relations should be jointly shared by compatriots on both sides of the Strait; secondly, the peaceful development of cross-strait relations needs to be jointly upheld by compatriots on both sides of the Strait; and thirdly, the peaceful development of cross-strait relations in the future must be jointly created by compatriots on both sides of the Strait.
August 8, 2011
In an opening speech at the 4th Cross-Strait Exchange Week of "Matsu Culture" and 10th Hebei-Taiwan Economic Cooperation Conference," Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi states that cultural exchange and economic and trade cooperation have been the primary driving fields in cross-strait interactions, like two wheels advancing together and constantly promoting the development of cross-strait relations. An important focal point of the Mainland side in developing Taiwan-related work is to continue to advance the interests and well-being of the grassroots public on both sides of the Taiwan Strait.
August 9, 2011
At the opening ceremony of the "2011 Overseas Taiwanese Business in Heilongjiang" activity, Taiwan Affairs Office Deputy Director Sun Yafu indicates that the fundamental condition for the string of important results achieved through the past three years of cross-strait exchanges, cooperation, consultations, and negotiations is that the two sides have a common political basis of opposing "Taiwan independence" and adhering to the "1992 Consensus." With this foundation, the two sides can build mutual trust, seek common ground, and interact benignly, creating a sound environment beneficial to exchanges and cooperation and enabling the resolution of real problems through equal negotiations.
August 24, 2011
Regarding the 10-Year Political Platform of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) on cross-strait policy, Taiwan Affairs Office Spokesperson states that the DPP has not yet changed its "Taiwan independence" position of "one country on each side," and it still refuses to acknowledge the "1992 Consensus." This policy is unrealistic and unacceptable to the Mainland side for the reason that if this policy were to be implemented, it would render cross-strait negotiations impossible and cross-strait relations would again become unstable. The Mainland side does not want to see current cross-strait negotiations and exchanges affected, nor does it wish to see cross-strait relations backtrack.
August 25, 2011
During a meeting with a Taiwan representative exchange delegation, Jia Qinglin, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, states that the key to progress in cross-strait relations lies in mutual trust established between the two sides on the common political basis of opposing "Taiwan independence" and adhering to the "1992 Consensus." With this premise, the two sides can shelve controversies, seek common ground, and move forward in a gradual, orderly manner through equal negotiations to pragmatically resolve issues confronted in the course of cross-strait exchanges and cooperation. If this premise were to be overturned, it would inevitably damage the foundation for cross-strait consultations and negotiations and worsen the climate for cross-strait exchanges and cooperation, resulting in another setback to cross-strait relations or even moving relations again towards turmoil, thereby sacrificing the fruits achieved through the peaceful development of ties between the two sides.
August 28, 2011
At the 2011 Jiangxi-Taiwan Economic and Trade Cooperation Symposium, Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi states that the mission of peacefully developing cross-strait relations is like a great mansion jointly constructed by compatriots on both sides of the Strait, whose foundation is the adherence to the "1992 Consensus," meaning the opposition to "Taiwan independence." On this foundation, each of the agreements signed between the two sides is like the addition of a new floor, increasingly enhancing the functions of this mansion. It is unrealistic for some people to advocate removing this base, while claiming it is possible to retain and even add up more floors. If this kind of thinking were to be acted on, it would have an impact on the peaceful development of cross-strait relations and harm the immediate interests of compatriots on both sides of the Strait, especially Taiwan compatriots'. Therefore, it is something the Mainland side cannot approve.
September 6, 2011
At the opening ceremony for the 2011 Summit Forum on Cross-Strait Cooperation in Emerging Industries and Economic Transformation and Upgrading, Taiwan Affairs Office Deputy Director Zheng Lizhong states that the Mainland’s Central Taiwan Work Office and the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council will cooperate with related units and areas to establish special funds, provide technical assistance, enhance guidance, set up domestic sales channels, increase brands benefits, and adopt other more effective measures to help Taiwanese-funded enterprises transform and upgrade.
September 8, 2011
In a speech presented at the Sixth Cross-Strait Economic Cooperation and Development Forum, Deputy Minister of Commerce Jiang Yaoping states that over the next five years, the two sides should devote efforts in the following three areas: 1) seize opportunities to comprehensively strengthen cross-strait industrial linkages and cooperation, 2) join forces to upgrade cross-strait industrial competitiveness, and 3) build on momentum to further solidify cross-strait investment protection mechanisms.
September 9, 2011
At the opening ceremony for the Tenth Liaoning Taiwan Week, Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi states that compatriots on both sides of the Strait are part of the Chinese race. The two sides should both cherish this blood-linked racial identity and jointly uphold the brotherhood of their common roots and ancestry. This is the only way to create a truly profound and solid foundation of public support for the development of cross-strait relations, as well as the only way to promote benign interactions and a common course towards each other.
September 14, 2011
The Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council states at a regular press conference that the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP)'s "Taiwan independence" position remains unchanged — denying the "1992 Consensus" and adhering to "one country on each side," which puts much of the so-called "goodwill" out of the questions. The Office also emphasizes that "economic issues first and political ones later and easy issues first and difficult ones later" is a step to promote the peaceful development of cross-strait relations. In regards to cross-strait economic cooperation, the two sides have reached a number of agreements. The Mainland side hopes that an agreement on cross-strait cultural exchanges can also be considered for inclusion in future cross-strait negotiations.
September 14, 2011
At the opening ceremony of the 2011 Cross-Strait Entrepreneurs Purple Mountain Summit, Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi states that the two sides must jointly uphold the peaceful development of cross-strait relations. Cross-strait relations cannot stall, not to mention regress, since volatility in cross-strait relations will hinder peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. The business communities of the two sides should seize the opportunity to integrate cross-strait resources and draw on the strength of each to offset the weakness of the other, constantly strengthening innovative development and cooperation in emerging industries across the Strait.
September 21, 2011
A Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman lodges a strong protest over the U.S. government's announced plans to sell arms to Taiwan, emphasizing that there is only one China in the world and that Taiwan is part of the territory of China. The Taiwan issue is China's internal affair, which concerns China's sovereignty, territorial integrity, and core interests. The Mainland firmly opposes the sale of arms to Taiwan by any foreign government─ a position consistent and clear. The U.S. has repeatedly ignored the Mainland's solemn representations on this issue and kept selling advanced arms to Taiwan under the pretext of the so-called "Taiwan Relations Act." This seriously interferes with China's internal affairs, gravely undermines China's national security and its grand plan of unification, and damages Sino-U.S. relations and peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.
September 22, 2011
Regarding the U.S. government's announcement of arms and equipment sales to Taiwan, a spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council indicates that this action seriously violates the principles of the three U.S.-China Joint Communiques. It also endangers peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, breaks the U.S. pledge to support the peaceful development of cross-strait relations, and harms the fundamental interests of compatriots on both sides of the Strait. The Mainland expresses its strong dissatisfaction and resolute opposition.
September 28, 2011
During a press conference, the Foreign Affairs Office of the Ministry of National Defense states that the Mainland military expresses utmost indignation and resolute opposition to the U.S. arms sales to Taiwan. The U.S. should immediately take effective measures to eliminate the serious damage done to Sino-U.S military relations and abide its solemn commitment to the Mainland on the Taiwan issue by stopping arm sales to Taiwan, in order to support the peaceful development of cross-strait relations with concrete actions.
September 28, 2011
The Taiwan Affairs Office states at a press conference that the peaceful development of cross-strait relations has always been promoted in a gradual and orderly manner, with economic issues before political ones and easy issues before difficult ones. Regarding the U.S. announcement of arms sales to Taiwan under the circumstance that cross-strait relations are steadily improving and developing, the Mainland urges the Taiwan side not to act in ways that might create confrontation and undermine the peaceful development of cross-strait relations overall. Furthermore, the mutual establishment of offices by economic and trade associations on the two sides is one of the areas of promotion under the Cross-Strait Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA); therefore, it is hoped that two sides can work promptly to respectively set up sound related management measures to realize the stipulations of the Agreement.
September 29, 2011
In a National Day reception speech, Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference Jia Qinglin states that the two sides of the Strait are steadily enhancing mutual trust and realizing full-scale direct "Three Links" on the joint political foundation of opposing "Taiwan independence" and adhering to the "1992 Consensus." They have signed and implemented the Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA) and sectors on both sides have strengthened exchanges and contacts, making a series of breakthrough advances in cross-strait relations. The two sides should firmly seize the theme of peaceful development of cross-strait relations, work hard to uphold the hard-won positive situation, constantly consolidate and improve the political foundation for the development of cross-strait relations, and firmly oppose and deter any "Taiwan independence " separatist behaviors.
October 9, 2011
At a ceremony to commemorate the centennial of the 1911 (Xinhai) Revolution, the General Secretary of the CPC Hu Jintao states that realizing unification by peaceful means best accords with the fundamental interests of all Chinese people, including Taiwan compatriots. The two sides must firmly seize the theme of peaceful development of cross-strait relations, strengthen opposition to "Taiwan independence," adhere to the common political basis of the "1992 Consensus," and end confrontation between the two sides.
October 9, 2011
During a meeting with Taiwan attendees at an event commemorating the centennial of the Xinhai Revolution, Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi states that national unification is a necessary condition for the revitalization of China; and the revitalization of China is for achieving national rejuvenation. After a century of efforts, the ideal of revitalizing China is now being realized, with the prospect of national rejuvenation also unfolding in front of us. Seizing opportunities, resolving challenges, and promoting the process of national rejuvenation must involve participation of Taiwan compatriots. Taiwan compatriots should also embrace the same sense of duty and mission, because the Mainland and Taiwan are our common homeland and we are one family.
October 12, 2011
During a joint interview by domestic and foreign media, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Cui Tiankai states that the United States' repeated arms sales to Taiwan have seriously damaged mainland China's core interests and Sino-US relations, and are at odds with the trend and needs of peaceful development in the Taiwan Strait today.
October 12, 2011
The Taiwan Affairs Office states at a routine press conference that cross-strait relations were not, are not, will not and cannot be a "state-to-state" relationship. The foundation for the peaceful development of cross-strait relations cannot be undermined and the forward momentum of development cannot be weakened.
October 19, 2011
At the 2011 Henan-Taiwan Economic and Trade Fair, Taiwan Affairs Office Deputy Director Sun Yafu states that the Office, related agencies, and local governments have rolled out a series of policy measures to support Taiwanese-funded enterprises, leading them to transform and upgrade and encouraging Mainland banks to provide them with capital support. The continued implementation of the Cross-Strait Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement has created enormous space for development for Taiwan businesses to invest in the Mainland, production and operation by Taiwanese-funded enterprises in the Mainland, and cross-strait industrial cooperation in various sectors.
October 20, 2011
Director of the Overseas Chinese Affairs Office of the State Council Li Haifeng states that the Mainland will study and promote cross-strait cooperation in overseas Chinese education and Chinese culture, advancing private, routine, and academic exchanges through channels for overseas Chinese affairs.
October 20, 2011
During a meeting with the delegation led by SEF Chairman Chiang Pin-kung, Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi states that the "1992 Consensus" is the premise and foundation on which the SEF and the ARATS have carried out talks. Identifying with and upholding the Consensus is a prerequisiet for the development of talks between the two sides. Without it, SEF-ARATS talks would come to a halt and cross-strait relations would also be seriously affected. Handling easy issues before difficult ones and economic issues before political ones is a practical and feasible line of thinking. It is beneficial not only to the continued progress of talks, but also to advance mutual understanding as well as to build mutual trust, in order to accumulate consensus and create conditions for resolving complex and sensitive issues in the future. People-orientation is the basic principle in SEF-ARATS talks, while mutual benefit and reciprocity are the necessary conditions for the sustained vitality of SEF-ARATS talks.
October 20, 2011
At a press conference on the achievements of the seventh talks, ARATS Executive Vice Chairman Zheng Lizhong states that the reason why the resumption of talks between the SEF and the ARATS has enabled the signing of so many agreements and the establishment of so many mutually beneficial bridges is that the two sides have built up mutual trust and realized benign interactions on the basis of the "1992 Consensus." If this common political foundation is undermined, it will not only make it difficult to continue SEF-ARATS negotiations, but will also damage cross-strait relations.
October 26, 2011
The Taiwan Affairs Office states at a regular press conference that the termination of the state of cross-strait hostilities and formation of a peace accord are an inevitable prospect for the peaceful development of cross-strait relations. It is hoped that the two sides can strengthen exchanges, improve mutual trust, and progressively create conditions to this end. It also indicates that, in the handling of all major issues concerning cross-strait relations, consideration should be given to the wishes of compatriots on both sides as well as to what is beneficial to the stability of cross-strait relations. It should also be recognized that the development of political negotiations is a constantly created condition and success will come naturally when the condition is ripe. No political forces should be allowed to take advantage of and use this for political manipulation to gain political interests.
October 28, 2011
At the First Cross-Strait Industrial Cooperation Forum in Kunshan, Jiangsu, Deputy Director of the National Development and Reform Commission Zhang Xiaoqiang makes five suggestions for cross-strait industrial cooperation: 1) to expand the scope of cross-strait industrial cooperation and strengthen research on modes; 2) to enhance cooperation in strategic emerging industries and upgrade the level of cooperation; 3) to continually improve the environment for cross-strait investment and promote two-way investment; 4) to assist the development of small and medium enterprises on the two sides and realize the function of industrial parks; and 5) to strengthen the function of organizational coordination services to resolve practical problems.
October 28, 2011
At the First Cross-Strait Industrial Cooperation Forum in Kunshan, Jiangsu, Taiwan Affairs Office Deputy Director Zheng Lizhong raises a four-point guideline for cross-strait industrial cooperation: 1) to cherish and maintain the benign situation of the peaceful development of cross-strait relations; 2) to constantly upgrade the institutionalization level and mechanism basis of cross-strait industrial cooperation and explore new models for cross-strait industrial cooperation; 3) to fully realize the complementary strengths of the two sides; and 4) to more vigorously attract involvement by small and medium enterprises.
October 28, 2011
At the First Cross-Strait and Hong Kong Economic Times Financial and Economic Summit Forum, Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi states that the two sides should promote economic and trade cooperation in the following areas: 1) progressively implement the Early Harvest Program under the Cross-Strait Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA) and actively advance talks on various follow-up issues; 2) integrate cross-strait economic resources and strengthen cooperation in emerging industries; 3) accelerate cross-strait financial cooperation; and 4) help Mainland-based Taiwan enterprises transform and upgrade, in order to realize second undertakings in the process of accelerating and changing economic development modes in the Mainland. He also states that there is one fundamental safeguard for realizing the positive prospects for cross-strait mutual benefits and a win-win outcome, which is to uphold the common political basis reached by the two sides.
November 4, 2011
At the week-long Xiamen International Ocean Forum, Fujian Provincial Department of Ocean and Fisheries Director-General Liu Xiude states that Fujian will establish a Fujian-Taiwan Marine Economic Community to promote the creation of a Taiwan Strait Blue Economic Trial Zone. Fujian will also plan "outstanding Fujian-Taiwan cooperation."
November 5, 2011
The Mainland's State Intellectual Property Office announces that in response to the current situation of constant developments in cross-strait economic, trade, and cultural exchanges, all residents of the Taiwan Area who have passed the National Qualification Examination for Patent Agents, obtained a qualification certificate, and completed a one-year internship at an approved patent agency in the Mainland will be allowed to apply for a "patent agent practicing certificate" and can practice at a Mainland patent agency.
November 7, 2011
At the "14th Beijing-Taiwan Science and Technology Forum and 2011 Taiwan Trade Fair in Beijing," Member of the Politburo Standing Committee of the Communist Party of China Jia Qinglin states that cross-strait relations have developed to a crucial juncture linking both previous and future stages. Identification with the "1992 Consensus" is the premise of cross-strait negotiations as well as the foundation for developing cross-strait relations. Denial of the "1992 Consensus" will inevitably halt cross-strait negotiations and damage the foundation for the development of cross-strait relations, creating new upheavals in cross-strait relations.
November 11, 2011
During a talk with KMT Honorary Chairman Lien Chan at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meeting, PRC President Hu Jintao states that the two sides should firmly seize the theme of peaceful development of cross-strait relations, strongly oppose "Taiwan independence," and identify with the common political basis of the "1992 Consensus." The "1992 Consensus" was reached in 1992 by civic organizations officially authorized by the two sides. The very essence of the Consensus is to seek common ground while preserving differences. Identification with the Consensus is the necessary premise for the development of dialogues and negotiations between the two sides. It is also an important foundation for the peaceful development of cross-strait relations.
November 14, 2011
During a meeting with domestic and overseas Taiwan compatriots attending a celebration for the 30th anniversary of the founding of All-China Federation of Taiwan Compatriots (ACFTC), Member of the Politburo Standing Committee of the Communist Party of China Jia Qinglin states that four key points need to be seized in promoting the peaceful development of cross-strait relations: 1) to adhere to the political foundation that both the Mainland and Taiwan belong to one China; 2) to follow the major route of deepening exchanges and cooperation as well as promoting consultations and negotiations; 3) to promote united struggle among compatriots on both sides of the Taiwan Strait as a powerful force; and 4) to continue to oppose "Taiwan independence" separatist activities. These are the necessary conditions for promoting the peaceful development of cross-strait relations. In recent years, the two sides have built up mutual trust on the common political foundation of opposing "Taiwan independence" and identifying with the "1992 Consensus." The foundation has been vital to the creation of a benign environment conducive to cross-strait exchanges and cooperation, constantly bringing active achievements through cross-strait negotiations.
November 15, 2011
At the Ninth Fujian Provincial Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC), Secretary of the CPC Fujian Provincial Committee Sun Chunlan notes that over the next five years, Fujian will seize the theme of peaceful development of cross-strait relations, fully realize the advantage of the "Five Bonds," and accelerate developments as a close cross-strait economic and trade cooperation zone, a major base for cultural exchange, and an integrated hub for direct contacts. It will also promote developments in order to become a major negotiation base for cross-strait consultations on routine affairs.
November 16, 2011
The Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council states at a regular press conference that the Mainland has long advocated for the end of the hostile state across the Taiwan Strait and for the conclusion of a peace agreement. Currently, SEF-ARATS negotiations will still focus on economic issues first and political ones later and on easy issues first and difficult ones later. The two sides should continue to adhere to and uphold the "1992 Consensus," advance political mutual trust, and keep leading and promoting the opening of new prospects in cross-strait relations.
November 17, 2011
In a speech presented at the opening ceremony of the Third Chongqing-Taiwan Week in Chongqing, Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi states that the "1992 Consensus" is the necessary premise for the development of cross-strait dialogues and negotiations, as well as an important foundation for the peaceful development of cross-strait relations. The "1992 Consensus" cannot be denied, cross-strait relations cannot fall back, peace once gained in the Taiwan Strait cannot be lost, and the well-being of compatriots on both sides of the Strait cannot be undermined. In order to uphold stability in the Taiwan Strait and for the well-being of Taiwan compatriots, the two sides must adhere to and uphold the "1992 Consensus," thereby introducing and constantly opening up new prospects for cross-strait relations.
November 20, 2011
Regarding the development of Taiwanese-funded enterprises and investigation and research on cross-strait agricultural cooperation, ARATS Chairman Chen Yunlin states in Guangdong that the "1992 Consensus" is the necessary premise for cross-strait negotiations and a foundation for the peaceful development of cross-strait relations. Denial of the "1992 Consensus" will make it difficult to continue negotiations between the SEF and the ARATS and smoothly implement the signed agreements. Cross-strait relations will certainly stall or even fall back. The Consensus is the necessary premise for cross-strait dialogues and negotiations, as well as an important foundation for the peaceful development of cross-strait relations.
November 22, 2011
At the "Association of Taiwan Compatriots' Investment Enterprises Leaders Meeting" in Wenzhou, Zhejiang, ARATS Vice Chairman Zheng Lizhong emphasizes that cross-strait relations have been able to achieve major breakthroughs because both sides have adhered to the "1992 Consensus," which is the necessary premise for SEF-ARATS negotiations, an important foundation for the peaceful development of cross-strait relations, and the key to further deepening the developments across the Strait in the future.
November 30, 2011
Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council Spokesperson Fan Liqing states at a regular press conference that the State Administration of Radio, Film, and Television (SARFT) will continue to strengthen promotion of concrete measures for cross-strait film and television cooperation and exchanges. So long as the momentum for the peaceful development of cross-strait relations is maintained, cross-strait exchanges and cooperation can be further expanded and cross-strait negotiations continued. Identification with the "1992 Consensus" is the necessary premise for developing cross-strait dialogues and negotiations, as well as an important foundation for the peaceful development of cross-strait relations.
December 1, 2011
During a banquet with Taiwan media, ARATS Vice Chairman and Secretary General Li Yafei states that so long as cross-strait relations are able to smoothly develop, Taiwan's participation in regional and international cooperation as well as cross-strait economic cooperation is the major direction that can be optimistically anticipated. The condition and premise for the "smooth development of cross-strait relations" and continued communication between the ARATS and the SEF is that the "1992 Consensus" underpinning cross-strait mutual trust cannot be undermined. The "1992 Consensus" is a consensus reached with official authorization from the two sides. It is not a consensus between the Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) and the Chinese Communist Party (CPC). The competent agencies in the Mainland are considering facilitation measures to further promote cross-strait personnel exchanges, and the form of the "Taiwan Compatriots Certificate" is likely to be further streamlined in the next few years.
December 2, 2011
During a signing ceremony for a memorandum of understanding (MOU) for Taiwanese enterprises, Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi states that the Mainland side will support the establishment of operational institutions in the Mainland by more Taiwan-invested banks and allow such banks to expand their business networks in the central west and northeast areas of mainland China. Furthermore,the Mainland supports the deepening of business cooperation between financial institutions on the two sides and encourages Taiwanese financial institutions to establish lease finance companies or surety companies in the Mainland and to strengthen cooperation with Mainland financial institutions.
December 14, 2011
The Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council emphasizes at a regular press conference that the "1992 Consensus" is a consensus reached between authorized organizations of the two sides, not between the Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) and the Chinese Communist Party (CPC). It represents a consensus between the two sides. This is an objective fact. The 16 agreements signed between the SEF and the ARATS since the two sides resumed negotiations in June 2008 were all achieved on the basis of the "1992 Consensus." This Consensus is a necessary premise for the development of cross-strait dialogues and negotiations. It is also an important foundation for the peaceful development of cross-strait relations. Denial of the "1992 Consensus" will prevent the continuation of cross-strait negotiations.
December 16, 2011
In a speech presented at a meeting commemorating the 20th anniversary of the ARATS, Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi states that by adhering to the "1992 Consensus," mutual trust between the two sides can be maintained, the foundation can be consolidated, and talks can be carried on . Denial or renunciation of the "1992 Consensus" will not only stall talks between the SEF and the ARATS but also lead to a retreat in cross-strait relations. He also emphasizes that the SEF-ARATS talks established on the basis of the "1992 Consensus" are equal negotiations between Chinese people on both sides and goodwill communications between compatriots on both sides of the Strait. This is not the same as country-to-country negotiations.
December 16, 2011
In a speech presented at a meeting commemorating the 20th anniversary of the ARATS, Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference Jia Qinglin expresses active support for promoting follow-up negotiations to the Cross-Strait Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA) in order to provide more effective institutional guarantees for deepening cross-strait economic cooperation. The Mainland hopes to actively promote the negotiations and the signing of cross-strait cultural and education exchange agreements to facilitate cultural and education developments on the two sides. The two sides should avoid unnecessary infighting on foreign affairs. The Mainland understands and attaches importance to the issue of Taiwan compatriots' participation in international activities and is willing to make sensible and reasonable arrangements through cross-strait negotiations. He also emphasizes that the "1992 Consensus" is an objective fact. If the "1992 Consensus" is denied, it will be difficult to continue cross-strait negotiations and some of the negotiation achievements will be difficult to implement. Cross-strait relations will also inevitably return to the turbulent state in the past and ultimately harm the interests of compatriots on both sides of the Strait.
December 28, 2011
The Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council states at a press conference that the Mainland will allow Taiwan residents to apply for the establishment of privately or individually-owned businesses in some provinces and cities. The first 9 provinces and cities to be opened will be Beijing, Shanghai, Guangdong, Fujian, Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Hubei, Sichuan, and Chongqing. Allowed industries will include the food and retail industries. Moreover, the Pingtan Comprehensive Experimental Zone will be built as a puoneer area for cross-strait exchanges and cooperation, a demonstration area for the reform and innovation of institutional mechanisms, a suitable residential area where compatriots of both sides can live together, and a pilot area for scientific developments on the west coast of the Taiwan Strait. Furthermore, relations between the two sides were not, are not, and will not be a "country-to-country" relationship. Both sides belong to one country. Adherence to the "1992 Consensus" is a necessary premise for the development of cross-strait dialogues and negotiations. Denial of the "1992 Consensus" will undermine the foundation for cross-strait negotiations, which will of course then be unable to continue. Adherence to the "Taiwan independence" position of "one country on each side" will definitely endanger the peaceful development of cross-strait relations. In order to maintain stability in the Taiwan Strait and reduce concern over military security, the two sides can communicate on military issues and discuss the issue of establishing a military CBMS.