January 1, 2006
President Chen states in his New Year message that no matter how cross-strait relations develop, Taiwan will adhere to the four principles of "sovereignty, democracy, peace and parity." He also emphasizes that cross-strait economic and trade policies should not seek to fulfill the financial interests of any individual or corporation. Rather, the sustainable development of Taiwan is the greatest interest of our pursuit. More specifically, the government must "proactively" take on the responsibility of "management" in order to "effectively" reduce the risks of "liberalization." The administration focuses on Taiwan's long-term development, assuming the role of a gatekeeper to guard the nation's economic security against foreseeable risks and resisting making ingratiation or taking shortcuts. Therefore, "proactive management and effective liberalization" represents the new mindset and course of action for the government's future cross-strait economic and trade policies.
January 1, 2006
The MAC states in a news release that "proactive management" is aimed at ensuring the autonomy and sustainable economic development of Taiwan, and also intends to lay a solid foundation for "effective liberalization." To simplify cross-strait economic and trade policies to matters of "opening" and "retrenchment" would be a serious distortion of reality. The government and private enterprise must be able to establish sufficient confidence and ability, as well as management, for discussion on specific liberalization measures to have meaning. Such approach is also necessary to reduce the risks involved in liberalization, and to win the support and recognition of the people.
January 3, 2006
In a reception with the British-Taiwanese All-Party Parliamentary Group led by MP Lord Richard Faulkner of the House of Lords, President Chen states that the keynote of cross-strait economic policy in the past several years and even in the future has already been established and has not changed. There have only been adjustments and revisions in administrative areas inadequately managed in the past. Without "proactive management" there can be no "effective liberalization." If proactive management is not properly carried out, it would be better not to liberalize. This is the core value of "proactive management and effective liberalization."
January 6, 2006
President Chen sends a letter to Pope Benedict XVI, responding to the pontiff's "Message for the 2006 World Day of Peace." The letter states that the resumption of cross-strait dialogue and the peace and security of the Taiwan Strait are goals that President Chen will continue to pursue. In the area of cross-strait relations, Taiwan will continue to act to ensure "goodwill reconciliation, active cooperation and permanent peace." The President urges His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI to continue to closely monitor the situation in China regarding human rights and religious freedom and to ask China to dismantle the missiles it has aimed at Taiwan and renounce the possible use of force against Taiwan. All these efforts will help ensure the peace and stability of the Taiwan Strait and the Asia-Pacific region.
January 6, 2006
The MAC issues a press release stating that the government's constitutional re-engineering project is aimed at strengthening democracy in Taiwan, enhancing the good management and efficacy of the government, promoting social justice and impartiality in Taiwan, and enabling Taiwan to become a competitive modernized country. The authorities in China have always interpreted the basic activities of democratic politics in Taiwan, the preservation of Taiwan's identity, and efforts to expand Taiwan's space for diplomatic movement as "de jure Taiwan independence." Such interpretation not only reflects Beijing's ulterior political agenda, but also clearly indicates the Chinese authorities' fear of democratic government. This type of political manipulation by Beijing not only will fail to win international support, but also indicates the Chinese authorities' inadequate understanding of "democracy." It poses, moreover, a serious obstacle to the peace and development of cross-strait relations.
January 11, 2006
Officiating at a Coast Guard anti-smuggling exercise and pledge ceremony, President Chen states that as resource shortages become more serious each day, China is accelerating efforts to explore and exploit seabed resources in Taiwan's southern and eastern seas. Such efforts have not only caused tensions in the surrounding areas, but also constitute a major threat to Taiwan's national security and sovereignty. Therefore, Taiwan must face this situation with the highest level of diligence.
January 16, 2006
In a meeting with members of the US Democratic Party policy task force, President Chen expresses that the so-called "ultimate reunification" is in violation of the principle of the spirit of "sovereignty for the people." Only the 23 million people of Taiwan have the right to make decisions regarding the prospects, future, and fate of their country.
January 17, 2006
On an inspection tour in Kinmen, President Chen emphasizes that the balance of military power across the Taiwan Strait has shifted critically in favor of China, both qualitatively and quantitatively. China has steadily built up the number of tactical guided missiles aimed at Taiwan to 784 missiles. Moreover, in March 2005, China's National People's Congress passed the so-called "anti-separation law," authorizing the People's Liberation Army to resolve the Taiwan issue by "non-peaceful" means, adding a huge new variable in cross-strait relations.
January 19, 2006
In a meeting with Yoo Joon Sang, chairman of Korea's 21st Century Economic and Social Research Institute, President Chen notes that the experience of the Korean Peninsula is highly important and worthy of Taiwan's consideration at a time when some parties in Taiwan are promoting direct links across the Taiwan Strait. There are no direct links between North Korea and South Korea, except for humanitarian reasons. Taiwan has to think carefully before opening direct links across the strait based on national security and the country's best interest.
January 29, 2006
At a pre-dinner speech during a Lunar New Year's reunion at his home county of Tainan, President Chen says that Taiwan should follow its own road, and it should earnestly consider the serious task of whether or not to abolish the National Unification Council and Guidelines for National Unification.
February 2, 2006
The MAC states in a news release that President Chen Shui-bian has recently proposed to seriously consider ceasing the function of the National Unification Council (NUC) and ceasing the application of the National Unification Guidelines (NUG). The proposal helps to remind the Taiwanese people that major changes have occurred to certain situations and therefore they must be reviewed. The NUC and the NUG have predetermined unification with China as the only and ultimate goal. This is a remaining vestige of the party-state system. Not only is this entirely inconsistent with the rational and democratic expectations of the people, but it also violates the mainstream opinion that "Taiwan's future must be decided through the free will of the 23 million Taiwanese people." This issue certainly requires further discussion, assessment, and study.
February 6, 2006
While attending the 2006 Taiwan Businessmen's Association (TBA) Lunar New Year event, President Chen notes that the government will further enhance Taiwan's investment and business environment in the future through assistance and coordination in the areas of laws and regulations, tax system, land, labor, finance, and technology. It will also fully promote investment activities and attract more foreign investment to Taiwan. For example, encouraging Taiwanese enterprises abroad to return and invest in Taiwan in order to make domestic industries sounder, stronger and more able to develop smoothly in the future.
February 7, 2006
In a speech at a Lunar New Year event for Tainan County natives residing in Taipei City, President Chen emphasizes that national sovereignty cannot be divided or shared. The national sovereignty of Taiwan belongs to the 23 million Taiwanese people and it cannot be shared with the 1.3 billion people of China under any circumstances.
February 8, 2006
While attending the 2006 Lunar New Year Gathering for industrial and commercial groups, President Chen states that the Taiwanese people must expand their vision and arrangement. They must not limit their view to short-term profit or fall deep into the narrow framework of cross-strait trade. Rather, Taiwan needs to set its sights on the world and seriously consider its sustainable development and where its principles and niches lie. If the people can grasp the lifeline of their destiny and development, any market can serve as a foothold for Taiwan's development.
February 8, 2006
The MAC issues a news release stating that the Taiwanese government has completed the related plans for cross-strait passenger and cargo charter flights and tourism in Taiwan for Chinese tourists based on the existing cross-strait trade and economic policies. It has also clearly designated a contact window for arranging and negotiating related matters with China. If China is sincere, it should respond concretely to Taiwan's proposal through the mutually authorized windows and actively make arrangements for cross-strait negotiations on related issues.
February 9, 2006
In a speech at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs 2006 Spring Festival banquet for foreign diplomats in Taiwan, President Chen states the reality that the current cross-strait military balance is tipping increasingly in favor of China. It has invoked grave concerns from the United States, Japan and other Asia-Pacific countries. The international community's over-tolerance and negligence of China's military build-up and war preparations against Taiwan and its disregard of the Taiwanese people's outcry--their love for democracy and desire for peace--have resulted in serious misjudgments of the current imbalances in cross-strait political and military relations. Consequently, democracy in Taiwan and security interests of the Asia-Pacific "community of democracies," the United States, and Japan in the West Pacific are now jeopardized.
February 12, 2006
In a recent interview with BBC's HARDtalk TV, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu notes that neither sides of the Taiwan Strait have been under the jurisdiction of the other since 1949. The popularly elected president and National Assembly of Taiwan since 1996 symbolize the sovereign status of Taiwan. The government exercises exclusive sovereignty within the territory of Taiwan, which essentially makes Taiwan an independent state.
February 14, 2006
While attending the founding ceremony of the Strategic Alliance for International Health Cooperation, President Chen states that China's avian influenza epidemic puts the world at serious risk. In view of frequent cross-strait contacts, Hong Kong and Taiwan are certain to be the first areas affected. The threat of avian influenza in China is not alarmist talk, but a grave task that health organizations worldwide dare not treat lightly. However, since the outbreak of SARS in 2003, the Chinese authorities have consistently sought to cover up and suppress outbreak reports. Not only is China the world's biggest "black hole" in disease prevention, but its act of ignoring the health interests of the people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait and in other countries of the world is immoral.
February 15, 2006
While presiding over a military promotion and award ceremony for lieutenant generals, President Chen states that China's insistence that Taiwan is a province and local governments of China runs counter to the mainstream democratic premise in Taiwan. As a responsible authority, the government cannot allow China to annex Taiwan's sovereignty; it cannot allow Taiwan's security to be threatened; and it cannot allow the future of Taiwan to be determined by any individual or political party.
February 22, 2006
In a meeting with U.S. Representative Robert R. Simmons, President Chen notes that the NUC and the NUG are absurd remnants from an absurd time period mainly because they violate the spirit of "sovereignty of the people" and strip the Taiwanese people of the right to make a final decision over Taiwan's future.
February 22, 2006
In a meeting with a German parliamentary delegation, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu notes that China's rapid military build up in recent years poses a growing threat to Taiwan and seriously erodes the basic preconditions for the "four no's plus one" position. Taiwan is a democratic country and its people should be able to freely choose Taiwan's future. The National Unification Council and the National Unification Guidelines are remnants from the old party-state era. Predetermining unification with China as an ultimate goal clearly violates the current situation in Taiwan and is also at odds with the mainstream expectations of the people.
February 23, 2006
In a meeting with a German parliamentary delegation, President Chen states that China not only does not recognize Taiwan as a sovereign and independent country and does not respect the right of the 23 million Taiwanese people's right to freedom of choice, but it also threatens the 23 million Taiwanese people with non-peaceful means. China's attempts to downgrade and de-governmentalize Taiwan are clearly incomparable to the situation prior to the unification of the two Germanys.
February 26, 2006
The MAC solemnly states that the Chinese authorities have resorted to various means of downgrading and defaming the Taiwanese government. On the other hand, they have attempted to cover up, through various lip services, their actions aimed at annihilating the ROC. The Chinese authorities have repeatedly and seriously provoked the status quo in the Taiwan Strait, denied the fact of the ROC's existence, and restricted the Taiwanese people's right to self-rule. These actions have not only seriously undermined the development of cross-strait relations, but they have also hurt the Taiwanese people's feelings. Moreover, they have threatened peace and stability in the East Asia region.
February 27, 2006
While presiding over a high-level national security conference, President Chen issues a seven-point statement. In response to China's continual attempts to unilaterally alter the status quo in the Taiwan Strait via non-peaceful means such as military intimidation and its so-called "Anti-Separation Law," the following decisions are made at a high-level national security conference based upon reports and suggestions by the National Security Council and the discussions amongst related government agencies. The National Unification Council will cease to function. No budget will be allocated for it and its personnel must return to their original posts. The National Unification Guidelines will cease to apply. In accordance with procedures, this decision will be forwarded to the Executive Yuan for reference.
February 28, 2006
President Chen Shui-bian announces his agreement that the National Unification Council will cease to function. No budget will be allocated for it, and its personnel must return to their original posts. The National Unification Guidelines will cease to apply. In accordance with procedures, this decision will be forwarded to the Executive Yuan for reference.
March 1, 2006
The Executive Yuan issues a report to inform the results of ceasing the application of the National Unification Guidelines (NUG). During the session, Premier Su Tseng-chang states that the significance of ceasing the application of the NUG is to respect the will of the 23 million people of Taiwan, uphold freedom and democracy in Taiwan, maintain the status quo in the Taiwan Strait, and protect the people of Taiwan's freedom to choose their future.
March 1, 2006
The MAC issues an open letter to the Taiwanese business community in China, explaining that the government ceased function of the National Unification Council (NUC) and application of the National Unification (NUG) to preserve the long-term peace and stability of the Republic of China and safeguard the freewill of the 23 million people of Taiwan to choose their future. The MAC also earnestly expresses the government's unwavering effort to uphold the status quo in the Taiwan Strait and promote mutually beneficial cross-strait exchange measures. In addition, the government will make every effort to build a long-term stable environment so that Taiwanese businesspeople can conduct their businesses in China without distractions, continue to contribute to Taiwan's economy, have confidence in Taiwan's democracy, and be free of worries at home.
March 3, 2006
In an interview with Yomiuri Shimbun's International Department Chief Kiichiro Harano, International Department Director Kiichiro Wakayama, and Taipei Bureau Chief Toshinao Ishii, President Chen Shui-bian states that only the 23 million people of Taiwan have the right to choose and decide the future of Taiwan and cross-strait relations. The current peaceful status of the Taiwan Strait should be upheld not only in the interests of Taiwan, but also in the shared interests of Japan and the U.S.
March 3, 2006
In an interview with Hong Kong's Oriental Daily, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that ceasing the function and application of the National Unification Council (NUC) and its guidelines are consistent with upholding the status quo. The move will not change the role of the MAC or Taiwan's cross-strait policy. He explains the mistake that some people have made by characterizing the move as a retrenchment in cross-strait policy. Previously announced policies will continue to be implemented, including visits to Taiwan by Chinese tourists, cross-strait cargo and passenger charter flights, and media exchanges.
March 3, 2006
At a regular press briefing, MAC Vice Chairman David Wei-Feng Huang states that the Republic of China is an independent sovereign country, and any change to the status quo requires the consent of the 23 million people of Taiwan. This is the greatest consensus within the country. The government of China has continued to increase its deployment of ballistic missiles, and has repeatedly resorted to verbal threats to intimidate the Taiwanese people. It even enacted the so-called "anti-separation law" on March 14, 2005 in an attempt to legalize the use of non-peaceful means against Taiwan. China's action is the main cause to the change in cross-strait status quo. The Taiwanese people have the right to determine the direction of Taiwan's future. The Chinese authorities do not fully understand the democratic operations in Taiwan, and their interpretation of "ceasing the function of the NUC" is also completely incorrect.
March 6, 2006
In a special report to the Legislative Yuan on the resolution to cease function of the National Unification Council (NUC) and cease application of the National Unification Guidelines (NUG), Premier Su Tseng-chang stresses that the NUC and the NUG are vestiges of the party-state era, during which the Kuomintang used its position as the party-led government and unilaterally determined that unification is the only outcome between Taiwan and China. This was a serious violation of the functions of a democracy and it undermined the fundamental value of sovereignty of the people. The purpose of ceasing the function of the NUC and the application of the NUG is to respect the will of the 23 million people of Taiwan, uphold the status quo of freedom, democracy, and peace in Taiwan, and protect the right of the Taiwanese people to freely choose their future.
March 6, 2006
In a hearing with lawmakers at the Legislative Yuan, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that Taiwan does not exclude conducting negotiations or contacting China regarding any issue. However, China's predetermined "one China" principle poses an obstacle to cross-strait interactions.
March 6, 2006
In an interview with Japan's Nihon Keizai Shimbun, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu notes that Taiwan is a sovereign and independent country whose sovereignty belongs to its 23 million people. Taiwan's future can only be decided by the people of Taiwan and not by China. This is Taiwan's definite and unquestionable position and it is also the people of Taiwan's greatest consensus.
March 8, 2006
The Executive Yuan passes an MAC proposal to designate March 14, the day that Beijing enacted its anti-separation law in 2005, as "Anti-Aggression Day".
March 10, 2006
In an interview with Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, President Chen Shui-bian states that the unification of Germany completely adhered to the four principles of democracy, sovereignty, peace, and parity. Moreover, it was achieved in full respect of the free choice made by the German people on both sides instead of resorting to force or non-peaceful means. However, the current situation between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait is that China does not recognize or respect Taiwan and it does not accept Taiwan as a nation of independent sovereignty. China even considers Taiwan as its own province, which is a part of the People's Republic of China. China has stated that it "places hopes on the people in Taiwan," but in fact it does not respect Taiwan's 23 million people's right to self-determination. Furthermore, China has passed its "anti-separation law," which aims to annex and invade Taiwan through the adoption of military force or other non-peaceful means. Cross-strait differences and disputes can be resolved peacefully only through dialogue. Under the principles of sovereignty, democracy, peace, and parity, Taiwan is willing to engage in contact, dialogue, and negotiations with the Chinese government at any time and any where.
March 11, 2006
At a seminar on the "10th Anniversary of the Taiwan Strait Missile Crisis," MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu notes that although 10 years have passed since the 1996 missile crisis, the crisis in the Taiwan Strait has not disappeared. This is because China has continuously expanded its military force with increasingly clear intent of preparing to attack Taiwan. The situation in the Taiwan Strait remains complex, and regional peace is still under serious threat.
March 12, 2006
While attending a seminar on "The One Year Anniversary of the Anti-separation Law: Looking Back and Ahead," MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that with regard to China's "anti-separation law" and recent aggressive manipulation of two-handed strategies against Taiwan, the government of Taiwan has upon complete evaluation, clearly proposed priority negotiation issues and invited Chinese officials to conduct negotiations. This is to show Taiwan's greatest goodwill and sincerity. Taiwan also hopes that the Chinese authorities can make corresponding adjustments and reforms, remove obstacles to positive cross-strait interaction, and welcome a new age of cross-strait reconciliation and coexistence.
March 13, 2006
In an interview with Washington Post's Northeast Asia Bureau Chief Anthony Faiola and Beijing Correspondent Edward Cody, President Chen Shui-bian states that it is very clear to both Taiwan and the United States that the so-called maintenance of the status quo is, of course, the maintenance of Taiwan's democracy, freedom, and human rights, as well as the maintenance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. Therefore, ceasing function of the National Unification Council (NUC) and application of the National Unification Guidelines (NUG) do not change the status quo. Various opinion polls have shown that the majority of people in Taiwan, over 80%, even as high as 85%, believe that the future of Taiwan should be freely decided by the people of Taiwan. The main reason that Taiwan decided to cease function of the NUC and application of the NUG is to return to the people of Taiwan their right to freely decide their own future.
March 13, 2006
In an interview with the Central News Agency, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu notes that if direct cross-strait cargo links are to be implemented in future, the government will arrange related safety measures in accordance with its August 15, 2003 assessment report on direct cross-strait cargo. However, the most important factor remains the need for cross-strait government negotiations to address safety concerns.
March 14, 2006
In response to the Chinese authorities' inappropriate announcements, the MAC issues a press release emphasizing that the Taiwanese government has decided to cease function of the National Unification Council (NUC) and cease application of the National Unification Guidelines (NUG) based on its firm adherence to the important principles of "safeguarding democracy" and "maintaining the status quo." These actions do not involve any changes to the status quo in the Taiwan Strait. The government not only respects the 23 million Taiwanese people's freewill to choose, but also insists that no country or party can obstruct the Taiwanese people's freewill to choose by setting preconditions or ultimate objectives. The Chinese authorities' malicious criticisms of President Chen only show a complete ignorance of the mainstream Taiwanese public opinion.
The MAC appeals to the Chinese authorities to immediately terminate the application of the "anti-separation law," renounce the fictitious "one China" principle, and promptly implement political reforms.
March 15, 2006
In a meeting with Palau's House of Delegates Speaker Augustine Mesebeluu and Mrs. Mesebeluu, President Chen Shui-bian states that only the 23 million people of Taiwan have the ultimate right to decide Taiwan's future. Any changes to the status quo in Taiwan can only be made with the consent of the 23 million Taiwanese people through the democratic process of a referendum.
March 15, 2006
In a meeting with Gambian Foreign Affairs Minister Lamin Kabba Bajo, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu notes that Taiwan has the right to join the World Health Organization (WHO) and have access to professional medical and health information needed to protect the life and safety of its people. However, pressure from China has prevented Taiwan from joining the WHO. Moreover, even though Taiwan is an active and responsible member of the international community, it has encountered repeated suppression from the Chinese authorities that have prevented its accession to the U.N. This is extremely unfair to the 23 million people of Taiwan.
March 16, 2006
In a reception with a visiting group of Taiwan expatriates from Japan, President Chen Shui-bian states that U.S. President George Bush stated in a speech in Tokyo in November 2006 that over 80% of the people in Taiwan believe that the future of Taiwan should be decided by the 23 million people of Taiwan. The functions of the "National Unification Council" and the application of the "National Unification Guidelines" were ceased in order to return to the people of Taiwan their right to freely choose their future. This is a step towards consolidating and deepening democracy in Taiwan.
March 17, 2006
In a meeting with members of the "Victims of Investment in China Association," President Chen Shui-bian states that "proactive liberalization with effective management" is essentially same as "proactive management with effective liberalization." This is the original meaning of the phrase. China is one market, but it is not Taiwan's only market, ultimate market, or entire market. The president reminds the guests again of the political and business risks in investing in China, and expresses the belief that the entire Taiwanese business community should pay close attention to these things.
March 18, 2006
While participating in the "318 March" to protect Taiwan from China's annexation, President Chen Shui-bian states that if Taiwan wants to be a regular democratic nation, it needs a referendum mechanism and its citizens must have the freedom to choose. Taiwan is a sovereign and independent country, and the sovereignty of Taiwan belongs to its 23 million citizens. Only the 32 million people of Taiwan have the right to determine the future of Taiwan. Taiwan's sovereignty is inseparable and cannot be shared with others. The future of Taiwan cannot be decided by the 1.3 billion people of China.
March 21, 2006
In a reception with Katsuya Okada, Japanese parliamentarian and former president of the Democratic Party of Japan, President Chen Shui-bian reiterates that any disputes over cross-strait issues must be resolved peacefully through dialogue, and not by resorting to force or any non-peaceful means. He also emphasizes that defending peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait is in the shared interests of Japan, the U.S., and Taiwan. Taiwan will continue to play the role of peacekeeper in the region.
March 22, 2006
In a meeting with American Institute in Taipei Director Stephen M. Young, Premier Su Tseng-chang emphasizes that the government takes an open attitude to cross-strait exchanges. The current problem is that China is unwilling to engage in negotiations with Taiwan, which creates difficulties in setting up many management principles in cross-strait exchanges and increases national security risks.
March 23, 2006
At a press briefing, MAC Vice Chairman Johnnason Liu notes that the Chinese authorities have persistently stand by their "one China" principle as the framework for developing various cross-strait relations. It hopes to use this framework to politically, diplomatically, and economically isolate and annex Taiwan, and achieve the same ultimate objective as the anti-separation law enacted last year.
March 24, 2006
MAC Vice Chairman Johnnason Liu notes that from related stipulations in China's constitution, the anti-separation law enacted last year, and this year's 11th Five-year Plan, that the "mainland area" does not leave room for the existence of the Republic of China.
March 26, 2006
At a media reception, Premier Su Tseng-chang states that cross-strait interactions should adopt the principles of peace, parity, and mutual benefit. These are points that will never be compromised. Under this framework, the two major principles of cross-strait policy are "Taiwan's objectivity" and "proactive policies."
March 27, 2006
At a council meeting, MAC issues a report on the Chinese authorities' plan to create a "cross-strait economic zone" and its impact on future cross-strait relations. The concept of an economic zone is in line with the Chinese authorities' consistent thinking in its work against Taiwan. It strengthens China's strategy and tactic of sucking away economic resources from Taiwan, but its ultimate objective is to "internalize and localize cross-strait exchanges." The significance of China's political united front tactics far exceeds the benefits of economic exchanges.
March 27, 2006
The MAC convenes a council meeting to discuss the issue of whether to include local governments among the responsible agencies in regulations relating to citizens or organizations of Taiwan holding office positions in China or membership affairs. The MAC reports that it is still appropriate for the central authority to be in charge of overall planning and handling of issues pertaining to these matters. The Council has also proceeded to establish models for handling these matters to serve as references for local governments in the future. Moreover, in order to avoid ambiguity and contention over whether the responsible authority referred to in Article 46 of the enforcement rules extends to local governments, the MAC will promptly revise the rules in accordance with legal procedures to clearly stipulate the meaning of responsible authority in the related regulations.
March 29, 2006
At a press briefing, the MAC reiterates that any visit by a political party or private group to China for exchanges is allowed as long as they are conducted legally. However, if these exchanges involve negotiations with the Chinese authorities on issues pertaining to government authority or the rights and obligations of the people of Taiwan, they will have no legal force without the legal approval and authorization of the government. MAC appeals again to all parties to jointly uphold Taiwan's democratic rule of law against the Chinese authorities' malicious actions.
March 30, 2006
In a reception with a delegation of the French National Assembly, including Deputies Michel Hunault, Loic Bouvard, and Francois Loncle, President Chen Shui-bian notes that during the Tiananmen Incident in 1989, China suppressed innocent civilians and youth through force, prompting an EU resolution to ban the sale of arms to China. This ban remains enforced, mainly because China has failed to improve its human rights record, continued to plan the use force in resolving cross-strait disputes, and become the world's third-largest exporter of weapons of mass destruction. The president believes that the EU should continue to enforce the arms ban until these issues have been satisfactorily resolved. Otherwise, it would be the equivalent of encouraging a non-democratic China to use force against a democratic Taiwan, while endangering peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region at the same time.
March 30, 2006
While attending a reception for the inauguration of the Taiwan International Health Action Task Force, President Chen Shui-bian states that Taiwan is only an ocean away from China, a country that has no qualms about concealing disease outbreaks. Considering the high volume of human and cargo movement across the Taiwan Strait, and the international community's grave concerns regarding the threat of avian flu and its all-out effort to address the vulnerability in the global disease prevention network, if Taiwan continues to be excluded from this international health chain, the health security of its people will be gravely threatened when the avian flu breaks out in China. This scenario is also likely to have direct impact on other nations. Therefore, the president urges the international community to support Taiwan's bid to participate in the World Health Organization and help ensure the health rights of the 23 million people of Taiwan. Succumbing to China's irrational political interference will be the cause of Taiwan's, or even the world's regrettable loss.
March 31, 2006
In a meeting with Parliamentarian Kamei Hisaoki, deputy chief of the Taiwan-friendly caucus in the Lower House of the Japanese Diet, President Chen Shui-bian states that the totalitarian regime of the Chinese Communist Party's one-party dictatorship is the greatest burn wound and discredit to the universal values of democracy, freedom, human rights, and peace. It has also created potential concerns for security, peace, and stability in the Asia-Pacific region. He further stresses that maintaining the cross-strait status quo means defending Taiwan's democracy, liberty, human right conditions, and especially the current status of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. The Chinese military expansion and deployment of missiles against Taiwan have endangered and harmed this status quo, and the threat it poses to Taiwan could also affect Japan and the United Sates.
April 3, 2006
While attending the opening ceremony for the 2006 International Hospital Federation Asian Pacific Regional Conference, President Chen Shui-bian emphasizes that China has been repeatedly blocking Taiwan's participation in the World Health Organization and irrationally obstructing Taiwan's cooperation with other countries on health matters, including combating the avian flu. These behaviors have not only caused great losses to the people of Taiwan, but also shown how serious China has undermined the universal value that "healthcare shall transcend national borders."
April 3, 2006
President Chen Shui-bian and KMT Chairman Ma Ying-jeou meet to exchange views on arms procurement, cross-strait relations, the 1992 Hong Kong Talks, ceasing of the National Unification Council and its guidelines, and other issues. President Chen notes that the main spirit and core value of the "Four No's Plus One" pledge is to "maintain the status quo," in order to preserve Taiwan's democracy, the liberties and human rights of the people, and cross-strait peace and stability. With regard to the 1992 Consensus, he notes that China has not accepted the formulation of "One China with respective interpretations by the two sides," but rather insists that the consensus is based on the "one China" principle, a trap that Taiwan cannot fall into. The president also stresses that a true democracy is when only the 23 million people of Taiwan have the right to determine the direction of cross-strait relations, and the result of the people's free choice is honored, without preconditions or predetermined conclusions. The purpose of the entire process is to advance democracy in Taiwan.
April 7, 2006
In a meeting with U.S. experts on cross-strait relations, President Chen Shui-bian states that Taiwan's core value is consolidating and deepening of democracy. Only the 23 million citizens in Taiwan have the right to decide Taiwan's future, the maintenance or change of the status quo, and constitutional reform. He says that these decisions will be decided through the democratic process of referendum.
April 10, 2006
In a meeting with a delegation of the European Parliament-Taiwan Friendship Group led by group Vice Chairman Jose Javier Pomes Ruiz, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu indicates that China only acknowledges the "one China" principle and has not accepted "respective interpretations [of one China] by the two sides" in any way. China has been clear in its position that Taiwan is a sacred and inseparable part of the PRC, as witnessed in the content of the "anti-separation law" drafted by China and in the "Draft Proposals for the 11th Five-Year Plan for National Economic and Social Development," approved by the National People's Congress in March this year.
April 10, 2006
In a meeting with a delegation of U.S. experts on cross-strait relations, led by American Institute in Taiwan Director Natale H. Bellocchi, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that China's stubborn insistence on the drafting and passage of the "anti-separation law" completely ignores the status quo that the ROC and PRC are both not under the jurisdiction of each other. Additionally, China's continued military expansion and suppression of Taiwan's diplomatic space are clear evidences that Beijing is changing the status quo. He therefore appeals for U.S. support of Taiwan to prevent changes to the status quo in the Taiwan Strait.
April 11, 2006
In a meeting with European Parliament-Taiwan Friendship Group led by group Vice Chairman Jose Javier Pomes Ruiz, President Chen Shui-bian emphasizes that no one can force the Taiwanese people to accept unification as the ultimate goal. However, no options regarding future cross-strait development would be excluded under the condition that China gives up its authoritarian rule and that any decision is consented to by all of citizens of Taiwan.
April 11, 2006
In a meeting with U.S. Congressman John Linder, President Chen Shui-bian stresses that the greatest differences between Taiwan and China are differences in lifestyles and systems. If China can abandon its one-party regime, he trusts that it is not entirely unlikely that both sides can further exchange views on and discuss political and economic topics of mutual interest.
April 12, 2006
In a meeting with a delegation of Australian congressmen, President Chen Shui-bian states that contrary to the opposition parties' goal of ultimate unification with China, Taiwan's ruling party insists on the principle of democratic self-determination. The spirit of sovereignty of the people is to respect the free will of the 23 million people of Taiwan. With regards to the future of Taiwan and cross-strait relations, any outcome is possible as long as it has the approval of the people of Taiwan. The most important point is that we cannot pre-establish positions or conclusions, and we cannot make ultimate unification the only choice and conclusion of the 23 million people of Taiwan.
April 12, 2006
In a reception with Belgian parliamentarians Senator Alain Destexhe and Representative Stef Goris, President Chen Shui-bian states that the government and people of Taiwan under his leadership are not opposed to the people of China, but they are firmly opposed to China's single-party authoritarian rule. The greatest differences between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait are differences of lifestyles and systems. Therefore, the people of Taiwan are well aware of the many difficulties they face, yet they remain brave and resolute on the road to democracy, peace and human rights.
April 13, 2006
In a meeting with U.S. Congressman John Linder, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that the government hopes to improve cross-strait relations through policies to relax restrictions on Chinese tourists visiting Taiwan and cross-strait cargo and passenger charter flights, thereby upholding stability in the Taiwan Strait and Asia Pacific region.
April 14, 2006
In a meeting with Tokyo Governor Ishihara Shintaro, President Chen Shui-bian notes that KMT Chairman Ma Ying-jeou specifically noted that "one China" referred to by Beijing is the People's Republic of China (PRC). For half a century, the PRC has never acknowledged the existence of the Republic of China (ROC). It has not acknowledged the ROC in the PRC constitution and believes that the ROC ceased in 1949. The keynote of China's diplomacy towards Taiwan at present is the "three outs": to dig out, squeeze out, and block out Taiwan's diplomatic allies and role on the international stage.
April 14, 2006
In a meeting with a delegation of the National Committee on American Foreign Policy, President Chen Shui-bian states that the so-called "Chinese Nationalist Party and Communist Party of China Meeting" and "Second Lien Chan - Hu Jintao Meeting" were intentionally arranged to precede the meeting between Hu and U.S. President George W. Bush. The Chinese leaders are attempting obscure international perceptions and fabricate a false sense of peace in order to allay pressure from the U.S. for China to negotiate with the democratically elected government of Taiwan. All negotiations are just false fronts so long as China refuses to give up its single party dictatorship, totalitarian rule and plans to attack Taiwan with force, and refuses to implement a truly democratic and free system.
April 14, 2006
With regard to the Cross-Straits Economic and Trade Forum held by the Communist Party of China (CPC) and the Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT), the MAC issues a three-point official statement emphasizing the status of both sides of the Taiwan Strait. The government of Taiwan has always insisted that the Republic of China is a sovereign independent country whose sovereignty lies with the 23 million people of Taiwan; the People's Republic of China also is a sovereign independent country; and neither side is under the jurisdiction of each other. This is the true status quo. The government of Taiwan is willing to conduct pragmatic negotiations with China on the issues of: visits to Taiwan by Chinese tourists, direct cross-strait charter passenger and cargo flights, Taiwanese agricultural exports to China, repatriation of criminals and perpetrators of economic crimes and protection of Taiwanese investments and intellectual property rights in China. The law requires that the government conduct these negotiations because these matters involve government authority. China should swiftly and actively conduct dialogue and negotiation with the government of Taiwan, to bring about a beginning of positive contacts and interactions across the Taiwan Strait.
April 15, 2006
While hosting the commissioning ceremony for the Air Force's Hawkeye airborne early warning aircraft, President Chen Shui-bian states that China has never renounced its military threats and intimidation against Taiwan. Moreover, China has sought to create conditions supportive of its political, military and diplomatic clash with Taiwan in recent years through its so-called "three warfares" (legal, media, and psychological). China's massive military build-up has far exceeded the basic needs of national defense, and it has also been a source of grave concern for the U.S., Japan, and other neighboring countries. As an immediate target under Chinese military threat and a member among the ranks of the world's free democracies, Taiwan not only bears the full responsibility for its self-defense, but will also contribute fully to regional security, stability and peace.
April 15, 2006
In her a speech delivered at the opening ceremony of the 19th Annual Meeting of Local 3480 Rotary International regarding the KMT and the CPC's trade and economic forum, Vice President Annette Lu states that China's economic strategy towards Taiwan is to use businesses to hedge in the government, use people to compel officials, and use economic integration to promote political integration. She also expresses hope that the entire population of Taiwan can, on the basis of Taiwanese heart and sentiments, establish a footing in Taiwan and adopt an international view. Taiwan must demand the normalizations of cross-strait relations with the Chinese government. However, these relations must be based on mutual parity and be carried out in accordance with the democratic processes of the people of Taiwan. They must also be advanced peacefully. This peace must ensure that the autonomous independence of Taiwan is not sacrificed by embracing and surrendering to China.
April 16, 2006
In response to the "four proposals" raised today by the Chinese leader, the MAC issues a press release solemnly indicating that the Chinese authorities again have clearly shown that they have not abandoned the existing rigid pattern and ideology of "one China." In 1995, the Chinese authorities found pretext to unilaterally suspend institutionalized cross-strait negotiations, and again attempted to politically intimidate Taiwan through its "one China" principle. Since 2000, China has taken the term "1992 Consensus" fabricated by the KMT, to conceal its ill intentions of "one China." In fact, the Chinese authorities have always intentionally ignored the reality of the existence of the Republic of China and sought to restrict and reduce Taiwanese people's freedom to determine their own future. This is the source that hinders cross-strait interactions.
April 17, 2006
In an interview with Japan's Sankei Shimbun, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that civic organizations of the tourism industry will be entrusted to conduct negotiations related to allowing Chinese tourists to visit Taiwan, in a model similar to the one that was adopted for direct cross-strait charter flight during the Lunar New Year holiday. Authorities on both sides will also be represented at the negotiating table. Chairman Wu reiterates that no topics will be excluded from cross-strait negotiations so long as they are conducted on the basis of parity and reciprocity.
April 18, 2006
In an interview with Jean-Jacques Mevel, Beijing Correspondent of Le Figaro of France, President Chen Shui-bian states that holding peaceful referendum, incorporating the right to referendum into the Constitution, and deciding to cease the function of the National Unification Council and its guidelines were aimed at returning the right to decide Taiwan's future and cross-strait relations to the hands of the 23 million people of Taiwan, and ensuring that no political party or government may set preconditions or predetermined conclusions with regard to Taiwan's future. We must not be deprived of the freedom to choose our own destiny; all of our efforts are aimed at consolidating and deepening Taiwan's democracy, rather than moving toward de jure independence.
April 19, 2006
In his remarks delivered at the first anniversary of the pontificate of Pope Benedict XVI, President Chen Shui-bian states that the Republic of China (Taiwan), which practices democracy, enjoys freedom and espouses peace, still faces continual military threats from China. Despite its self-acclaimed "peaceful emergence," China's one party authoritarian regime has yet to renounce its intention to use force or non-peaceful means in dealing with cross-strait issues. In fact, apart from having deployed nearly 800 missiles aimed at Taiwan, China has also passed the so-called "anti-secession law" last year and increased its defense budget at a double-digit rate annually over the past 18 years. China's behaviors not only harm Taiwan's democracy, freedom, and prosperity, but also endanger security and stability in the Taiwan Strait and threaten peace for humanity worldwide.
April 20, 2006
In an article entitled "We Believe in Democracy" published in the Wall Street Journal and simultaneously published in the Asian Wall Street Journal under the title "Strait Talk," President Chen Shui-bian stresses that Taiwan has no intention of changing the status quo and strongly opposes its alteration by non-peaceful means. It is China, not Taiwan, who is determined to alter the status quo in the Taiwan Strait and Northeast Asia. The government of Taiwan remains open to direct cross-strait dialogue without setting any preconditions. As for functional issues such as charter flights, tourism and investment protection for Taiwanese businessmen in China, we are willing to engage in dialogue and negotiations with China to achieve peaceful solutions through peaceful means.
April 21, 2006
The MAC issues a press release stating that President George W. Bush's public statement that cross-strait disputes should be peacefully resolved is entirely consistent both with the UN Charter's stipulation and the policy of the government of Taiwan that international disputes should be resolved only through peaceful means. The MAC is supportive of and grateful for this statement. Taiwan will continue to cooperate with the international community and devote its full effort to upholding the status quo, peace, and stability in the Taiwan Strait.
April 24, 2006
In a meeting with the World Taiwanese Chambers of Commerce delegation, President Chen Shui-bian expresses his hope to realize cross-strait contacts, dialogue, and negotiations. However, Taiwan cannot accept any attempts by China to marginalize and localize Taiwan as well as deny the legitimacy of the government and sovereignty of Taiwan. Any attempt to overstep the duly-elected government is only a part of China's united front tactics, regardless of the opposition party's effort. This is will not have any benefit to the normal development of cross-strait economic and trade relations.
April 25, 2006
Premier Su Chen-chang announces that with regard to increasing contact between people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait, the government will, starting May 1 this year, allow Kinmen and Matsu natives and their families (including spouses, lineal blood relatives, and second-degree relatives, such as collateral blood relatives, spouses and minor children) residing on the main island of Taiwan to visit China via Kinmen or Matsu. Moreover, a transport route line will be opened between Kinmen and Quanzhou from June; and China will be invited to conduct a "joint beach rescue exercise."
April 27, 2006
In an interview with Senior Editorial Writer Keiko Chino and International Edition Editor Yoshiro Toriumi of Japan's Sankei Shimbun, President Chen Shui-bian states his insistence that Taiwan's economy is independent from China, and the "proactive management and effective liberalization" policy is not only the duty of the government, but also a response to the risks that all Taiwanese enterprises should be aware of when investing in China.
May 2, 2006
In an interview with Taiwan's model laborers of the year and their families, President Chen Shui-bian states that Article 95 of the "Act Governing Relations between Peoples of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area" requires the Legislative Yuan to reach a resolution before Chinese persons are allowed to work in Taiwan. At present, the Taiwanese government still strictly abide by the principle of protecting the employment opportunities of the Taiwanese people, and it has not yet agreed to relax restrictions on admitting Chinese labors to work in Taiwan. In the future, the Taiwanese government will strictly manage related matters to protect the employment opportunities of Taiwan's low-level workers.
May 3, 2006
In a meeting with Izumi Kenta, a member of the Japanese Diet and director of the Democratic Party's department of youth affairs, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that although China's economic and trade markets are constantly growing, many uncertainties exist. In managing cross-strait economic and trade issues, Taiwan must consider factors that could adversely affect cross-strait relations so as to achieve balanced development. It should also strengthen risk-management controls to ensure that Taiwan's economic interests are not affected.
May 4, 2006
Before boarding the plane to depart on his "Sustainable Peace, Eternal Friendship" tour to Latin America, President Chen Shui-bian indicates that if China is sincere about engaging in dialogue and exchanges, it should hold talks with Taiwan's elected government. It should not force Taiwan into a corner or strip Taiwan of its space for survival in the international community; it should not deprive the 23 million Taiwanese people of their health rights; and it should not resort to force or non-peaceful means to resolve the issue of non-acceptance of the "ultimate unification" across the Taiwan Strait.
May 4, 2006
At an Executive Yuan meeting, Premier Su Tseng-chang notes that the recent three incidents involving the premier's planned visit to Haiti, China's diplomatic pressures on Taiwan's allies in the Middle East, and the problems encountered by President Chen Shui-bian during his overseas visits indicate that China has employed all conceivable means to obstruct Taiwan from conducting "transit diplomacy." The people of Taiwan should intensify vigilance in this regard.
May 8, 2006
The Ministry of Education (MOE) issues a press release stating that the recognition of diplomas issued by China's institutes of higher education is by no means a simple educational issue, because it involves the sustainable development and deployment of higher-education personnel. In handling this issue, the government will consider the consistency of Taiwan's China policy implemented by related ministries and departments as well as the sensitive cross-strait relations. The following factors must also be carefully considered:
- National security, public demands and other major factors.
- Academic professional levels and educational systems of those recognized schools should be equivalent to Taiwan's schools of the same level and type.
- Impact on Taiwan's higher education.
- Impact on the domestic job market.
Based on the above-mentioned principles, the MOE has not yet approved of the examination and recognition of diplomas issued by China's institutes of higher education, nor has it accepted any registration for this purpose.
May 9, 2006
President Chen Shui-bian visits Costa Rica. In a speech delivered at the 2006 Annual Meeting of the Latin American Chapter of the Global Alliance for Democracy and Peace (GADP), he emphasizes that both sides of the Taiwan Strait should engage in government-to-government dialogue and consultations and actively seek to establish an effective mechanism for interactions and exchanges in order to overcome their differences, build mutual trust, and resolve issues. Only by so doing, will it be possible for both sides to enhance the welfare of the people across the Strait and to meet the expectations of the international community.
May 9, 2006
During a tea party held in Costa Rica for accompanying Taiwanese reporters, President Chen Shui-bian indicates that democratic Taiwan is certainly by no means a "troublemaker." A fundamental solution to cross-strait issues requires the renouncement of the use of force and other non-peaceful means. The only approach to solving the issue lies in dialogue. Without government-to-government dialogue across the Strait, it will be impossible to reach a fundamental and final resolution to the Taiwan Strait issue.
May 11, 2006
During an interview held in the Legislative Yuan, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu says that if the promotion of direct cross-strait transportation links were based on the Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) and People First Party's (PFP) proposed draft amendments to the "Act Governing Relations between Peoples of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area," then it would be likely to create various problems in matters involving negotiations on air and sea transportation. Such problems include the issues of liaison between the flight information regions of both sides when aircraft fly, the handling of credentials of aircraft and steamship, and the flying of national flags on vessels. These issues must be resolved through cross-strait negotiations.
May 12, 2006
During a speech at the dinner banquet marking the European Day, President Chen Shui-bian states that totalitarian China and democratic Taiwan are two sovereign nations with no jurisdiction over each other. Each has its own national flag, national moniker, and national anthem, and each has its own constitution, government, military, and judicial system. They are two entirely different countries. This has been the peaceful status quo in the Taiwan Strait for over half a century. The sole threat to this status quo is totalitarian China, which has never ceased its attempts to invade and annex democratic Taiwan by force. Taiwan is by no means the troublemaker for regional peace and stability; rather, it is the staunch protector and defender of the peaceful status quo in the Taiwan Strait.
May 13, 2006
In a speech at a symposium on "Cross-strait Relations and the China Problem" at National Taiwan University's Graduate Institute of National Development, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that democratization in China is the key to opening the door to improved cross-strait relations. However, China fears that cross-strait exchanges will enable Taiwan's democracy to pose a challenge to Chinese political system. China's multiple misgivings have created a structural bottleneck to cross-strait relations. Therefore, unless China implements democratization, it will be impossible to normalize the development of cross-strait relations.
May 16, 2006
In a meeting with Michael Green, senior director for Asian Affairs at the U.S. White House National Security Council, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that direct cross-strait transportation links involve issues of national sovereignty, and national sovereignty cannot be decided by vote. Problems likely to be encountered in direct cross-strait transportation links must be resolved through negotiations, and before direct transportation links are established a related security mechanism should be established to safeguard the overall interests of the country. At present, liaison and arrangements are underway for negotiations on cross-strait cargo and passenger charter flights. The Taiwanese government hopes that through negotiations both sides across the Strait can normalize cargo and passenger charter flights before cross-strait negotiations on direct transportation links have been completed.
May 17, 2006
In an interview with EuroNews reporter Julian Lopez Gomez, President Chen Shui-bian indicates that he is not opposed to the normalization of cross-strait economic and trade relations, but he must insist on Taiwan's identity and undertake necessary risk-management controls.
May 17, 2006
In a meeting with the UK House of Commons Foreign Affairs Committee members, President Chen Shui-bian emphasizes that the Taiwanese government swears to defend peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and maintain the status quo of democracy, freedom and human rights in Taiwan. Over the past 50 years, the status quo in the Taiwan Strait has been that totalitarian China and democratic Taiwan are two sovereign nations with no jurisdiction over each other, and both exist as independent countries. Each side of the Taiwan Strait has its own national moniker, national flag, national anthem, national assembly, government, military, and judicial system. This is the status quo that Taiwan will preserve, and Taiwan hopes the status quo will not be unilaterally changed.
May 17, 2006
The MAC issues a press release indicating that Taiwan have commissioned relevant organizations to conduct communication and liaison with their Chinese counterparts on the issues of the promotion of cross-strait cargo and passenger charter flights, the opening up of tourism in Taiwan for Chinese tourists, and China's intention to import Taiwan's agricultural products. Certain results have been reached in this regard. However, China has only paid lip-service to such matters and has not actively followed up with the holding of negotiations. The MAC appeals to China to show its sincerity by respecting and promptly making a concrete reply to Taiwan's proposal through the windows designated by both sides, and by actively arranging for the holding of cross-strait negotiations on related issues.
May 18, 2006
President Chen Shui-bian presides at the National Security Council meeting and after hearing the 2006 National Security Report states that he will insist that cross-strait disputes must be resolved through peaceful dialogue. Under the four major principles of sovereignty, democracy, peace and parity, Taiwan is willing to conduct dialogue and consultations with China and to actively seek to establish a Peace and Stability Framework for Cross-Strait Interactions. Taiwan also hopes to join with other democracies of the world to promote democratic reform in China and bring about sustained peace and prosperity to the region.
May 19, 2006
In a meeting with students attending the "Overseas Taiwanese Businessmen's Bedrock Award and Model Entrepreneur Course," President Chen Shui-bian states that cross-strait relations are indeed being improved in an orderly and gradual manner, and it would be impossible to make such relations instantly improved in one swoop. Any major dramatic changes would not only sabotage national security, but would also introduce uncertainties into current cross-strait relations.
May 19, 2006
In a videoconference with prominent opinion leaders in Geneva, Switzerland, President Chen Shui-bian indicates that if China meets five conditions, the Taiwanese people might be willing to change their attitudes toward ultimate unification with China. The first of these is that the Chinese Communist authorities must abandon totalitarian rule in China. Second, China must truly implement a system based on democracy, freedom, and respect for human rights. Third, China must stop suppressing Taiwan, including its suppression of Taiwan's participation in the WHO in the international arena. Fourth, China must renounce its attempts to use force against Taiwan, withdraw the missiles targeted against Taiwan, and repeal the so-called "anti-separation law." And fifth, China must respect the right of the 23 million Taiwanese people to make choices according to their free will. President Chen says he does not believe, however, that conditions are currently ripe for this, nor does he believe that the Taiwanese people would now accept a so-called confederation model. This is because China has repeatedly tried to belittle Taiwan's status, marginalize Taiwan, and treat Taiwan's government as a local government. China has not only attempted to "de-governmentalize" Taiwan, but has also tried to deprive Taiwan of its sovereignty.
May 20, 2006
The National Security Council releases the 2006 National Security Report. The report clearly states that China's threat to Taiwan has extended from traditional military security to economic, trade, environmental and social dimensions-a fact it hopes the Taiwanese people will clearly recognize. MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu says that the report has a guiding effect in concentrating on the main points, enabling people in Taiwan and abroad to understand the security situation and threat facing the Taiwanese government. He also notes that the report represents the Taiwanese government's transparent and responsible mindset.
May 24, 2006
In a meeting with members of the Swedish-Taiwanese Parliamentary Friendship Association, a Taiwan-friendly group in the Swedish parliament, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu indicates that Taiwan's application to join the WHO is not a political issue, but an issue of national health. However, Taiwan's tenth bid to become an observer member of the WHO failed due to China's suppression. China's action has once again seriously hurt the feelings of the Taiwanese people.
May 26, 2006
In a meeting with Deputy U.S. Trade Representative Karan Bhatia, President Chen Shui-bian reiterates that he will not change his pledges and commitment to President Bush and the U.S. government. President Chen says he will continue to protect Taiwan's democracy, freedom and human rights. He says that Taiwan not only will not unilaterally change the peaceful and stable status quo across the Strait, but also will not tolerate any unilateral changes to the status quo.
May 26, 2006
The MAC issues a press release emphasizing that the Chinese health authorities have rejected the proposal by Taiwan's Minister of Health that both sides meet in Geneva to discuss cooperation on disease control; have obstructed Taiwan's attempts to join the WHA as an observer, and have raised the so-called "four principles." China's such actions are fundamentally aimed at shirking responsibility and cannot win the confidence of others. China's brazen lies on the international stage cannot fool the Taiwanese people, nor can they fool the people of the world.
May 26, 2006
In a meeting with French MP Patrick Balkany and other dignitaries from France, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that cross-strait disputes should be resolved by peaceful means without resorting to force and threats. The international community should also convey this message to China so that peaceful negotiations can replace military confrontation.
May 27, 2006
MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that the Taiwanese people should keep vigilance over China's "united front" tactics of promoting unification with the lure of talks and its methods of "making Taiwan surrender without a fight" with the objective of "swallowing up" Taiwan. Facing China's "totalitarian," "dictatorial," and "single whip" command system, the Taiwanese people should be aware of the Chinese authorities' warlike nature. They should take countermeasures against China by consolidating Taiwan's sovereign status, deepening democratic systems and helping China democratize, and forging national consensus and strengthening psychological defenses.
May 29, 2006
At the 170th Council Meeting of the MAC, the Ministry of the Interior presents a report on draft revisions to Article 17 of the "Permit Regulations Governing the Entry of Mainland Area People into Taiwan Area ," Article 20 of the "Permit Regulations Governing the Entry of Mainland Area Professionals into Taiwan for Professional Activities," Article 5 of the "Permit Regulations Governing the Residency, Permanent Residency, or the Domicile of Mainland-Area People in Taiwan through the Family Relationship," and Article 18 of the "Permit Regulations Governing the Entry into Taiwan by Hong Kong and Macau Residents and Their Residency or Domicile in Taiwan." The revisions would remove the requirement that letters of guarantee be submitted to the police agencies located in the area where the guarantor's household is registered for guarantee return processing. According to the revisions, the Immigration Office under the National Police Agency will be empowered to conduct reviews on related matters.
May 29, 2006
The MAC Council Meeting discusses and approves a measure to allow Chinese professionals to visit Taiwan to engage in commercial activities related to cultural, educational and professional exchanges. Mass media professionals will be allowed to come to Taiwan to conduct reasonable and necessary publicity activities, and can hold press conferences and be interviewed by media agencies (including newspapers, magazines, television and radio) on issues related to the permitted purpose of their visit.
May 31, 2006
The MAC issues a press release solemnly indicating that adhering to the national identity of Taiwan and preserving peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait have been the Taiwanese government's consistent positions and the core spirit of its current cross-strait policy. Public opinion surveys conducted over the years have highlighted that the overwhelming majority of the Taiwanese people are in favor of the development of normalized cross-strait relations under the precondition that national security is ensured.
June 1, 2006
At the Dinner Party hosted for the 2006 Dragon Boat Festival gathering of the Taiwan businessmen's associations, Premier Su Tseng-chang indicates that the Taiwanese government will abide by President Chen Shui-bian's cross-strait economic and trade policy of "proactive management and effective liberalization," and adopt "Taiwan's identity and policy initiative" as a main hub. Everything must be done in consideration of Taiwan's identity with a view to perfectly fulfilling management responsibilities and reducing investment risks. Premier Su expresses that the government's efforts are aimed at providing a bright future for Taiwan's businesses and citizens as well as creating an even better future for the nation.
June 1, 2006
At the 2006 Dragon Boat Festival gathering of the Taiwan businessmen's associations, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that the Taiwanese government will actively show goodwill to create an environment for cross-strait reconciliation. It is hoped that under such an environment, China may be willing to engage in negotiations with Taiwan on substantive issues. Chairman Wu also notes that in future both sides across the Strait must sit down to discuss issues such as the examination of travel certificates held by tourists, the signing of cooperation agreements between travel agencies across the Strait, and the governmental supervision mechanisms. This is aimed at maintaining high-quality travel and resolving disputes. Only in this way can the quality of cross-strait travel be ensured.
June 5, 2006
In an address delivered at the Taiwan-USA Industry and Technology Summit Forum, Vice President Annette Lu notes that China has already clearly made public its three-stage preparations for war against Taiwan. China plans to have fully developed contingency warfare ability by 2007; the ability to conduct a large-scale war by 2010; and the ability to conduct a war of decisive victory by 2015. China's acts show that it has made sufficient preparations for military attack against Taiwan. At present, China has deployed 820 missiles aimed at Taiwan, and it plans to increase this number to 1,000 missiles by the end of 2006. The rapid pace of this military build up makes evident Beijing's ambition and intention to attack Taiwan.
June 7, 2006
After his visit to Japan, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu indicates that Taiwan's response to pressuring from China is based on the two principles of "promoting democratic diplomacy" and "not conducting money diplomacy to compete with China."
June 8, 2006
In a meeting with Chairman Raymond F. Burghardt of the American Institute in Taiwan, President Chen Shui-bian emphasizes that his position has not changed over the past six years since his inauguration in 2000. He says that so long as China has no intention to use force against Taiwan, there will be no changes to the "four noes" pledges that he made in his 2000 and 2004 inaugural speeches. He says that his pledges will not be altered in the next two years and that it is even more unlikely that there will be changes due to the recent political climate.
June 14, 2006
In a press release, MAC states that to promote cross-strait negotiations on cargo and passenger charter flights, the authorities on both sides have reached a consensus and agreed to first implement four types of specialized charter flights, including specialized cargo charter flights, institutionalization of holiday passenger charter flights, charter flights for emergency medical treatment, and special humanitarian charter flights for emergency relief and disable (or ill) persons. With regard to follow-up implementation of the four types of specialized charter flights, the MAC will coordinate with the Ministry of Transportation and Communications and other related agencies to promptly draft related operational regulations. The MAC will publicly announce these regulations to facilitate the air carriers' applications once the administrative process has been completed. As to the operations of regular cargo and passenger charter flights, both sides have agreed to actively communicate to achieve concrete results in arrangement.
MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that these achievements have been announced with the approval of the governments across the Strait. However, no public announcement will be made regarding the negotiation process, personnel, time, and place due to the content of the tacit understanding. It also will not be possible to publicly explain the differences between both sides over the regular cargo and passenger charter flights or the details and arrangements of the related negotiations.
June 15, 2006
Attending a forum held by the Taiwan Labor Front on current key issues in Taiwan, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that even though cross-strait economic and trade relations have made a notable contribution to economic growth and employment in China, Beijing has neither lessened its military intimidation and threaten against Taiwan, nor stopped pressuring Taiwan diplomatically. Taiwan is facing China's increasingly hard-line and rigid Taiwan policy and nature, as well as the negative impact caused by cross-strait economic and trade exchanges on Taiwan in recent years. As such, "proactive management and effective liberalization" will become the basis of new thinking and action in cross-strait economic and trade policy.
June 15, 2006
Executive Yuan spokesperson Cheng Wen-tsang states that the Taiwanese government will advance step by step under the principles and premise of Taiwan's identity, policy initiative, and governmental leadership to promote cross-strait exchanges in a very stable and responsible manner. The Executive Yuan believes that the government must responsibly plan cross-strait exchange work, and it must also firmly promote the development of various types of exchange. In fact, good progress can be achieved on such issues as charter flights, cargo facilitation, and the opening up of tourism in Taiwan for Chinese tourists if both sides can undertake certain government authorization procedures and hold talks.
June 20, 2006
In a "Report to the People," President Chen Shui-bian states that the government upholds four principles in handling cross-strait relations. These four principles are sovereignty, democracy, peace, and parity. The government insists upon these four principles. Taiwan must not be downgraded, marginalized, or localized. Taiwan's government must not be bypassed and its sovereignty must not be denied either. The "four noes" mentioned in 2000 would remain unchanged as long as China has no intention to use force against Taiwan.
June 21, 2006
In a meeting with Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee, MAC Chairman Jaushieh states that the United States and Taiwan share the common values of freedom and democracy. He expresses hope that the U.S. will implement its diplomatic policy based on democracy and freedom and continue urging Beijing to hold dialogue with Taiwan's democratically elected government. Chairman Wu emphasizes that Beijing must understand that the governments across the Strait need to sit down to talk and replace confrontation with communication in order to promote peace and stability across the Strait.
June 23, 2006
In a meeting with Mohammed A.R. Galadari, owner of the Khaleej Times of the United Arab Emirates, President Chen Shui-bian states that peace, security, and stability in the Taiwan Strait must be founded upon Taiwan's internal political stability. He emphasizes that peaceful development in the Taiwan Strait requires that political negotiations be promoted internally and that cross-strait peace talks be promoted externally.
June 23, 2006
The Immigration Office of the National Police Agency under the Ministry of the Interior states that from July 1, 2006, Chinese professionals intending to visit Taiwan and having applied to enter Taiwan as a group must on the same day enter Taiwan from Hong Kong's Chek Lap Kok Airport or Macau International Airports, where they will get their formal entry permits from Taiwan's offices stationed at the two airports. Failure to do so will be considered dividing the group without any authorization; original entry permits will not be issued to the members of such groups.
June 26, 2006
At its 171st Council Meeting, the MAC issues a report entitled "An Analysis of Fujian Province's Work on Taiwan Youth." The report notes that in recent years China has targeted young students of Taiwan as its most preferred persons that China has sought to attract through exchanges, student recruitment and employment to lay a foundation for its long-term political objectives. With regard to the planned and systematic efforts of China to strengthen its work on Taiwan youth, Taiwan should make an overall consideration of cross-strait youth exchanges to prevent Taiwan youth from China's political contamination as well as to inspire deep thinking to help them establish the correct identity and ideas about exchanges. Moreover, in response to the widening imbalance of cross-strait youth and student exchange, the government should provide more channels and official encouragement for Chinese students to visit Taiwan to participate in exchange activities so as to promote understanding among China's younger generation of Taiwan's academic openness and democratic freedom.
June 29, 2006
In a meeting with Kenneth Lieberthal, the former US National Security Council Senior Director for Asian Affairs, President Chen Shui-bian states that if peaceful dialogue can be held between both sides across the Strait, it will be in the best interests of Taiwan and is also consistent with the common interests of the U.S. and Japan in the Asian region. Although there is some internal political contention in Taiwan at present, it will not change the Taiwanese government's will and determination to maintain the status quo of cross-strait peace.
June 29, 2006
In a meeting with foreign dignitaries on the occasion of the 10th anniversary of the reorganization of the Central News Agency, President Chen Shui-bian states that China's persecution of human rights and freedom of the press is widely known and in fact notorious. Beijing has stepped up pressure and restrictions on many internationally well-known websites, including Google, Yahoo!, and Microsoft. China has also detained more journalists than any other country. According to "Freedom of the Press 2006: A Global Survey of Media Independence," a study published by the Washington D.C-based Freedom House, China ranked 177th out of more than 190 countries, signifying that China is one of the countries with media that is rated as "not free."
July 3, 2006
Premier Su Tseng-chang states that the opening up of tourism in Taiwan for Chinese tourists must be premised on the upholding of "Taiwan's sovereignty" and "national security." He says that further study is required in the areas of China's immigration control, public security, and RMB exchange mechanisms.
July 3, 2006
In a meeting with Chinese human rights defenders, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that the government is one hundred percent confident of Taiwan's democracy, and therefore we are happy to see more Chinese people visit Taiwan. The government is also willing to adopt an even more open attitude toward the handling of cross-strait affairs. It trusts that all of this will be conducive to both sides across the Strait and can even promote the peaceful development of cross-strait relations.
July 5, 2006
President Chen Shui-bian meets with President Eduardo Sevilla and Domingos Ferreira, the Permanent Representative of Nicaragua to the United Nations (UN) and Charge d'Affaires of the Sao Tome and Principe Mission to the UN, respectively. He states that according to the principle of universal membership under the UN Charter, the rights of the 23 million Taiwanese people to be represented in the UN should not be ignored. The 23 million Taiwanese people also should not be discriminated against or deprived of their fundamental human rights to participate in the UN and perform their duties in the international community. UN Resolution 2758 only resolves the question of the UN representation rights of the 1.3 billion Chinese people. It does not deal directly with the UN representation rights of the 23 million Taiwanese people.
July 6, 2006
At a press conference, Presidential Office Deputy Secretary-General Cho Jung-tai states that the Office of the President fully supports peaceful dialogue to resolve all disputes, including cross-strait issues. Taiwan also faces a threat from missiles that China has deployed against it in total disregard for peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. The international community should pay close attention to the security situation in the Taiwan Strait.
July 6, 2006
In a meeting with a Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce delegation visiting Taiwan, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu expresses hope that the Hong Kong government will establish a Taiwan office in order to more directly assist Hong Kong persons in Taiwan, provide more convenient service, and serve as a regular liaison and consultation mechanism between the governments of Taiwan and Hong Kong.
July 7, 2006
Accompanied by Vice President Annette Lu, President Chen Shui-bian delivers a speech at the 2006 joint commencement of seven military academies stating that the people of Taiwan do not want to see war erupt with China, and they hope that enduring peace can be maintained in the Taiwan Strait. However, peace can not be built on self-delusion, wishful thinking or an unrealistic trust in the goodwill of the enemy. History has shown time and again that "one must prepare for war to stop war, and be able to go to war in order to avoid war." To live in a fool's paradise without the ability to prevent war is indeed the greatest factor in encouraging an invasion.
July 7, 2006
Responding to the international concerns over the North Korean missile tests, MAC Vice Chairman Johnnason Liu indicates at a press conference that China has rapidly built up its military and deployed forces against Taiwan in recent years. Taiwan hopes that as the international community attends to the problems on the Korean Peninsula it will also express concerns over the security situation in the Taiwan Strait and the threat China poses to Taiwan.
July 10, 2006
In a meeting with the Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) legislative caucus leader Tseng Yung-chuan, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that the "Macao model" is one feasible approach for formal cross-strait negotiations. However, before formal negotiations can begin, both sides must conduct communication, coordination and arrangements through their designated windows. Chairman Wu also emphasizes that the government is presently liaising actively with China through certain channels. He hopes that Taiwan can promptly conduct negotiations with China on related issues so as to achieve the objective of the opening up of tourism in Taiwan for Chinese tourists at the earliest date.
July 14, 2006
Executive Yuan spokesperson Cheng Wen-tsang states that the MAC's established policy is to promote the normalization of cross-strait charter flights, facilitation of cargo transportation, the opening up of tourism in Taiwan for Chinese tourists, and the expansion of the "Mini-Three-Links." Regarding the tourism issue, the MAC has already announced a table on progress on various items. Consensus has also been established in Taiwan to proceed with the current timetable without changes.
July 16, 2006
Attending the Taiwan-Japan Forum, Premier Su Tseng-chang states that it would be foolish and dangerous for Taiwan if it looks only at the opportunities and not squarely faces up to the risks in its interactions with China. He adds that Taiwan upholds universal values in its promotion of cross-strait relations. This is why President Chen Shui-bian has raised the four major principles of "democracy, peace, parity and prosperity" and has started to pragmatically and steadily promote cross-strait relations under a framework of "proactive management and effective liberalization."
July 16, 2006
In a meeting with a visiting group of Canadian parliamentarians, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that the constant attempts of the Chinese people to get information online, the soaring number of popular demonstrations to 87,000 incidents in China last year (2005), and the public pressure on the Chinese authorities to resume publication of Freezing Point magazine all show that the Chinese authorities currently are unable to fully control domestic social stability. This could be a critical juncture at which the Chinese leadership may consider political democratic reforms. Taiwan is also willing to provide its experience to help China develop democracy.
July 17, 2006
In a meeting with Japanese delegates to the "Taiwan-Japan Forum," President Chen Shui-bian states that in a short period of time China has increased the number of missiles deployed against Taiwan to 784, or 820 including 36 Donghai 10 cruise missiles, with the total number rising by 100 to 120 missiles each year. This has forced the 23 million Taiwanese people to live under the daily threat of a missile attack, not only endangering peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait but also affecting the security of Japan. It is by no means a proper action for so-called peaceful development and external reconciliation.
July 20, 2006
During a review of the "Han Kuang 22" military exercise, President Chen Shui-bian states that in facing the so-called "three warfares" undertaken by Beijing against Taiwan, Taiwan should further consolidate and deepen democracy in Taiwan and strengthen all the Taiwanese people's faith in the universal values of freedom, democracy, human rights, and peace.
July 27, 2006
In an address to the opening plenary of the Conference on Sustainable Development of Taiwan's Economy, President Chen Shui-bian indicates that cross-strait economic and trade exchanges in no way represent the entirety of Taiwan's foreign economic and trade relations, but rather are one link in the nation's overall global deployment. He emphasizes that cross-strait economic and trade issues cannot be discussed just in their own terms, but need to be considered in terms of Taiwan's overall international economic and trade relations to further affirm the position of Taiwan's national development. Moreover, Taiwan should draft a cross-strait economic and trade policy based on the fundamental thinking and framework of "putting Taiwan first, and investing in Taiwan first."
July 27, 2006
In a meeting with members of an aid planning group visiting Taiwan from the U.S.-based German Marshall Fund, President Chen Shui-bian states that over the past six years, Taiwan has always hoped to be able to resume dialogue with China. The change of the governing political party in 2000 was an especially ideal time for talks, but the Beijing authorities failed to take advantage of this window of opportunity. Instead, they have repeatedly misjudged the situation and refused to talk with the popular-elected government of Taiwan. He states that cross-strait dialogue is still the most important basis for peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and the region. Taiwan's survival and development are also conducive to the interests of the U.S. and Japan in the region. Moreover, Taiwan's democratic achievements can serve as a beacon for democratization in China and the Asia-Pacific region.
July 28, 2006
The Panel on Global Deployment and Cross-strait Economic and Trade Relations at the Conference on Sustainable Development of Taiwan's Economy reaches 58 consensual opinions. MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that cross-strait economic and trade relations should be rooted in the thinking of "investing in Taiwan" and "global deployment." Taiwan will continue to adjust its cross-strait economic and trade policy on the basis of putting Taiwan's national security and overall interests first and on the premise of effective risk management.
July 29, 2006
In a speech to the Chiayi City chapter of Taiwan Heart, Vice President Annette Lu indicates that Taiwan-capital investment in China amounts to 50 percent of Taiwan's GDP and accounts for 70 percent of Taiwan's total overseas investment. These figures indicate that Taiwan is overly reliant on China's economy. The Chinese authorities are taking advantage of this situation to politicize Taiwan's business community, get the people of Taiwan to pressure the government, and even to pursue political integration through economic integration.
July 30, 2006
In an interview, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu emphasizes that cross-strait relations have not experienced a structural change that would lead to political dialogue. Therefore, the MAC will still work hard to move forward with negotiations on some substantive issues, such as cross-strait charter flights and the opening up of tourism in Taiwan for Chinese tourists. The MAC will again seek, on the "June 14" basis, to explore whether there are other possibilities to further facilitate the cross-strait movement of people and cargo.
July 30, 2006
Premier Su Tseng-chang states with regard to the 516 consensual opinions reached at the Conference on Sustainable Development of Taiwan's Economy, those concerned with cross-strait liberalization measures will be handled on the basis of President Chen Shui-bian's "proactive management and effective liberalization" policy. Ceilings and controls will be placed on investment in China to strengthen the investment environment in Taiwan and enhance the domestic investment rate.
August 1, 2006
At an Executive Yuan press conference attended by domestic and foreign journalists, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu indicates that the government still adheres to President Chen Shui-bian's "proactive management and effective liberalization" directive in formulating its cross-strait economic and trade principle.
August 6, 2006
Premier Su Tseng-chang indicates that the change of diplomatic relations between Taiwan and Chad is a deliberate attempt by China to embarrass Taiwan and suppress the diplomatic space of the 23 million Taiwanese people.
August 6, 2006
MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that the government of China used various means to coerce Chad to sever diplomatic ties with Taiwan on the eve of Premier Su Tseng-chang's scheduled overseas state visit. Its intention in doing so was to humiliate the Taiwanese government and the Taiwanese people. The Taiwanese government and the Taiwanese people are outraged and condemn these actions by the Chinese government. Beijing must take sole responsibility for the likely impact of its actions on cross-strait relations.
August 12, 2006
In a speech at a ceremony recognizing the top-ten agricultural experts of the year at the Annual Meeting of the Taiwan District of Kiwanis International (TDKI), President Chen Shui-bian states that Taiwan should seriously consider directly applying for membership in the United Nations under the name of Taiwan.
August 21, 2006
The MAC indicates that the government, through the Straits Exchange Foundation, has invited China to send representatives to Taiwan at the earliest possible time to discuss the application of Taiwan Affairs Office Director Chen Yunlin and other mainland officials to visit Taiwan to attend the "Cross-Strait Forum on Agricultural Cooperation."
The MAC also emphasizes the most urgent task in cross-strait agricultural cooperation at present does not lie in China's sending representatives to participate in a civilian seminar. Rather, China should actively take measures to improve its practices and immediately reduce damage to the interests of Taiwanese farmers. Furthermore, in order to establish an effective long-term operating mechanism, China should accept Taiwan's invitation to conduct negotiations between the responsible authorities of the two governments across the Strait. This is the only way to truly look after the interests of Taiwanese farmers.
August 23, 2006
In a meeting with parliamentarian Engelbert Wistuba of Germany's Social Democratic Party, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that the Taiwanese government is now working hard to conduct negotiations with China on politically non-sensitive issues. He notes that there have been considerable achievements on charter flight issues, and the government is actively working to open Taiwan to Chinese tourists. It is hoped that negotiations can be conducted promptly and that, in future, cross-strait negotiations can be continued on substantive issues so that relations across the Strait may gradually improve.
August 23, 2006
Presiding at the celebration of the "48th Anniversary of the Victory in 823 Cannon War" in Kinmen, President Chen Shui-bian delivers a speech stating that the 23 million Taiwanese people fervently love peace. Taiwan does not want to be the enemy of the Chinese people, and it hopes lasting peace can be maintained in the Taiwan Strait. This does not mean, however, that Taiwan can ignore the upgrading and strengthening of its self-defense capability. In order to safeguard the status quo of freedom, democracy, prosperity and peace in Taiwan from unilateral change, it is necessary to build a nationwide consensus on national security and to build an effective and ample defense capability to deter and prevent the occurrence of any military conflict.
August 23, 2006
In a meeting with a delegation composed of parliamentarians of Germany's Social Democratic Party, President Chen Shui-bian states that the success of the European Union (EU) is based largely on the four major principles of "sovereignty, democracy, peace and equality." The EU is composed of independent sovereign countries that all fully respect the freewill choice of the people and do not resort to force or violence. This is consistent with the principles of democracy and peace. Furthermore, all of the member states are equal. Therefore, with regard to the future development of cross-strait relations, both sides across the Strait, regardless of the form of their political relations, should learn from the spirit of EU integration by not departing from these four principles.
August 24, 2006
In a speech delivered at the international symposium on "The Rise of China: Beijing's Strategies and Implications for the Asia-Pacific," MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu indicates that for Taiwan, the rise of China represents a major challenge. It also marks a juncture at which the people of Taiwan must make a choice in the face of China's economic, diplomatic and military threats. He expresses hope that the Beijing authorities can become a rational regime and join Taiwan in establishing a Peace and Stability Framework for Cross-Strait Interactions. This interim arrangement can prevent the occurrence of cross-strait conflicts and set a course towards a permanent and peaceful resolution.
August 25, 2006
The MAC issues a press release indicating that in order to implement and promote the policy of opening up tourism in Taiwan for Chinese tourists, the Taiwanese government has decided to establish the Taiwan Strait Tourism Association (TSTA) to facilitate follow-up communications and contacts with China and to assist in arranging the negotiations across the Strait and other related matters. At present, the related government agencies are successively making preparations for receiving Chinese tourists and formulating accompanying measures for security management and other matters. They have also completed all the preparatory works for negotiations.
August 25, 2006
At a press conference, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu indicates that, in accordance with the instructions of Premier Su Tseng-chang at an Executive Yuan meeting, Taiwan will properly implement accompanying measures on security management and the opening of RMB currency exchange operations on the main island of Taiwan once both sides reach a consensus through negotiations on the opening up of tourism in Taiwan for Chinese tourists.
August 28, 2006
In a meeting with European Chamber of Commerce Taipei Chairman Ralf Scheller, Premier Su Tseng-chang indicates that China not only has posed a long-term military threat to Taiwan, but also continues its economic and diplomatic suppression of Taiwan. Taiwan must therefore implement necessary management measures for cross-strait economic and trade relations. With regard to further easing restrictions on China's imports, Taiwan is willing to consult on this matter with China under the WTO framework. However, Beijing has been unwilling to engage in such consultations with Taiwan, indicating that the matter of cross-strait economic and trade liberalization still waits for China to adopt a more pragmatic attitude.
September 3, 2006
Speaking at the "First Taiwan-Pacific Allies Summit" in Palau, President Chen Shui-bian says that the status of Taiwan as an independent sovereign country cannot be denied. However, it will require us to make continued efforts to win general acceptance of this fact in the international community. Taiwan cannot restrict itself due to the suppression by others; and Taiwan cannot and should not give up any opportunity to concretely display its national sovereignty.
September 4, 2006
In a meeting with British parliamentarian Sir Nicholas Winterton, MAC Chairperson Jaushieh Joseph Wu hopes the international community will continue to emphasize to China that cross-strait disputes should not be resolved by non-peaceful means. He also expects that the international community can urge the Chinese authorities to resume peaceful dialogue with the Taiwanese government.
September 6, 2006
During an interview conducted in Palau with Reuters, President Chen Shui-bian indicates that by 2010 China will have the capability to launch a large-scale attack against Taiwan, though Taiwan will also have the counterattack ability. He stresses that unless China acknowledges that the Republic of China on Taiwan is an independent country, he will not meet with the leaders of China.
September 6, 2006
In a speech at the Woodrow Wilson International Center, MAC Chairperson Jaushieh Joseph Wu hopes that the U.S. will propose to Beijing that it give up setting "one China" as a precondition for cross-strait negotiations. He also hopes that the U.S. will directly urge China to respect the democratic status quo in Taiwan and to establish contact with the duly-elected Taiwanese government. If Washington only makes routine public announcements, Beijing will not pay any attention and it will be of no help to maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.
September 7, 2006
Meeting with a delegation of overseas Taiwanese leaders from Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos, President Chen Shui-bian states that in recent years China has engaged in a constant money offensive to suppress Taiwan in the international arena and win over Taiwan's allies. In the face of this new challenge and test, the Republic of China on Taiwan has neither desire nor capability to compete with China in conducting "money diplomacy." Taiwan relies on its belief in freedom, democracy, honest dealings and cooperation.
September 8, 2006
In an interview in Los Angeles, MAC Chairperson Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that China's deployment of over 800 missiles targeted at Taiwan has threatened Taiwan's security. Although the U.S. has responded to Taiwan's request by reiterating to China that it cannot use force or the threat of force against Taiwan, this has not stopped China, which to the contrary has steadily increased its military force.
September 8, 2006
With regard to the review and rejection of the application filed by Taiwan Affairs Office Director Chen Yunlin and other Chinese officials for their visit to Taiwan, the MAC issues a solemn statement indicating that:
- China obviously has no intention to improve cross-strait relations;
- China is clearly employing a carrot and stick strategy against Taiwan;
- China should engage in discussions with Taiwan under the principle of mutual respect;
- China has never sincerely paid attention to the deeper problems facing cross-strait agriculture; and
- The Taiwanese government will never waver from its promotion of cross-strait peace and stability.
September 11, 2006
In a press release, the MAC states that it is the Taiwanese government's consistent policy to enhance normalized cross-strait exchanges and to promote cross-strait cargo and passenger charter flights as well as the visit to Taiwan by Chinese tourists. The MAC thanks the private organizations for assisting the government in the promotion of related policies and outlines the following positions:
- The government has prioritized negotiations on the opening up of tourism in Taiwan for Chinese tourists, and has continued to engage in communication and contacts with China regarding technical issues involved in the related negotiations. However, since negotiations involve mutual interaction, Taiwan cannot unilaterally set a negotiation timetable. It is Taiwan's position that the sooner the negotiations are conducted, the better.
- With regard to the cargo and passenger charter flight issue, Taiwan is actively communicating with China on related matters. The government does not exclude any possibilities so long as this issue is handled through cross-strait negotiations.
- Taiwan has never excluded the possibility of conducting formal negotiations to make proper arrangements for the opening up of new flight routes across the Taiwan Strait.
September 11, 2006
The MAC issues a press release strongly condemning the "Measures for Administering the Release of News and Information in China by Foreign News Agencies," announced by China's Xinhua News Agency. It appeals to the international community to jointly urge the Chinese authorities to promptly remove restrictions on freedom of speech and return freedom to the Chinese people.
September 13, 2006
In a teleconference to promote Taiwan's UN entry, President Chen Shui-bian states that Taiwan is willing to resolve cross-strait differences by peaceful means and equal dialogue. The future evolution of cross-strait relations must conform to the four principles of sovereignty, democracy, peace, and parity. This is the unwavering demand of the majority of Taiwanese people. The United Nations and its related agencies can serve as a platform for positive interaction, communication and cooperation between Taiwan and China.
September 13, 2006
The 61st session of the UN General Assembly decides to exclude Taiwan's membership bid from its official agenda. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs strongly denounces China for abusing its influence to coerce the General Committee into making this unprincipled and groundless decision. It also states that China's brutal and ruthless suppression of Taiwan in the international arena will only aggravate the discontent and aversion felt by the Taiwanese people toward China's authorities and by no means facilitate benign cross-strait relations.
September 14, 2006
In a teleconference with New York students, President Chen Shui-bian states that joining the United Nations under the name of "Taiwan" would help clarify that the two sides of the Taiwan Strait are different countries. It would also make clear that Taiwan has no intention to challenge UN Resolution 2758.
September 14, 2006
The Ministry of the Interior announces that in future mass media professionals from China will be allowed to engage in specific publicity activities, including the holding of press conferences for permitted purposes and accepting media interviews (including newspaper, magazine, television and radio interviews).
September 15, 2006
Attending a celebration party marking the 185th anniversary of the independence of Central America, President Chen Shui-bian says that democracy is certainly the best "TMD" (theater missile defense) and best peace shield. In the face of the grave threat of verbal attacks and military intimidation from China, Taiwan therefore must continue to deepen and consolidate its democracy. It must also appeal to the Beijing authorities to stop suppressing the people's freedoms and to accelerate the pace of China's democratization.
September 16, 2006
Speaking in an interview with the U.S. National Journal on the topic of "China 'Suffocating' Taiwan," MAC Chairperson Jaushieh Joseph Wu indicates that in the current phase, China will not necessarily use force to resolve the Taiwan issue, but with the expansion of Chinese military forces, it is likely that one day China will consider the use of force an approach to resolving the Taiwan issue. China is also likely to stir up nationalism to resolve the Taiwan issue in order to redirect internal unrest. These are all factors that cannot be measured.
September 20, 2006
MAC Chairperson Jaushieh Joseph Wu says that concrete progress is expected to be achieved on negotiations regarding the opening up of tourism in Taiwan for Chinese tourists, and that the civilian organizations authorized respectively by both sides to conduct tourism negotiations are expected to sit down and talk. If all goes smoothly, the opening up of tourism in Taiwan for Chinese tourists could be implemented before the end of 2006.
September 25, 2006
During a MAC Council Meeting on the "Permit Regulations for Mainland Businessmen Coming to Taiwan to Engage in Commercial Activities," the MAC decides to appropriately ease the quota and conditional restrictions on Chinese businessmen visiting Taiwan at the invitation of enterprises.
September 25, 2006
During a MAC Council Meeting, the MAC approves a work flowchart and principles for handling suspension of voyage, annulment of captain and other ship licenses, and vessel confiscation under Items 5 to 7, Article 79 of the "Act Governing Relations between Peoples of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area." It will provide the flowchart and principles to related agencies as a reference in implementing measures to effectively deter the illegal entry of people of the Mainland Area into the Taiwan Area.
September 27, 2006
In a press release, the MAC notes that China's Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) issued an absurd statement regarding the constitutional reengineering project in Taiwan. The statement fully demonstrates that the Chinese authorities lack a basic understanding of the operating principles of representative democracy. It also exposes the Chinese authorities' fundamental inability to understand the trend of mainstream public opinion in Taiwan. China's repeated acts of issuing such statements and attempting to interfere in Taiwan's internal affairs have absolutely no positive significance for the development of cross-strait relations.
October 1, 2006
During an inspection tour of the "Mini-Three-Links" operations, Premier Su Tseng-chang indicates that the government will pragmatically review various "Mini-Three-Links" measures and make necessary adjustments under the premise that such adjustments do not affect national security. In consideration of expanding the transshipment function of the "Mini-Three-Links" route, the government will formulate accompanying measures to further facilitate cross-strait travel.
October 4, 2006
In attending a dinner banquet hosted by the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) for the Mid-Autumn Festival gathering for Taiwanese businesspeople, Premier Su Tseng-chang makes remarks indicating that as long as cross-strait matters do not involve national security or government authority, the government will definitely handle them with leniency and urgency. On the issue of China-bound investment, the government can allow Taiwan's banks to establish their branches in China. However, it is imperative that the government negotiate on the financial supervision and management system.
October 4, 2006
In a meeting with a delegation of German parliamentarians, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu reiterates that it has been the government's consistent policy to open up tourism in Taiwan for Chinese tourists. It is hoped that negotiations can be completed at the soonest possible time so that this open-door policy can be implemented before the end of this year. The key factor affecting cross-strait relations lies in Beijing's military threats and diplomatic suppression against Taiwan. Taiwan therefore urges China to hold dialogues with Taiwan's popular-elected government on substantive issues. This will be a fundamental approach to improving cross-strait relations.
October 4, 2006
Attending the 25th World Chinese Traders Convention, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu reiterates that the cross-strait economic and trade policy at the present stage is still based on the guiding principle of "proactive management and effective liberalization." There is room for adjusting cross-strait economic and trade relations, however such adjustments must be made based on the premise that risks can be properly controlled.
October 10, 2006
In his "2006 National Day Address," President Chen Shui-bian states that constructing a meaningful, substantive relationship will be possible only if China's leaders adopt the universal values of freedom, democracy, human rights, and peace to create a language shared by both sides of the Strait and, based on this language, cooperate in establishing peaceful and stable interactions. As to the development of cross-strait relations, this surely cannot be confined to the mere interactions within the narrow framework of Taiwan-China relations. Taiwan must broaden its scope of action and expand its field of vision to the comprehensive level of the evolution of international political and economic dynamics.
October 11, 2006
The MAC indicates that cross-strait agricultural exchanges must be promoted in a sequential and orderly manner through liaison and interaction between the responsible authorities of both sides. Only by so doing will they substantively benefit agricultural development on each side. The Chinese authorities are treating cross-strait agricultural exchanges as a chip for political manipulation and using this issue as a tool to promote its Taiwan work. This will by no means benefit the normalized development of cross-strait exchanges, the protection of the substantive rights of Taiwan's farmers, or the upholding of the overall interests of Taiwan.
October 12, 2006
In a meeting with German Parliamentarians, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu indicates that at present the government is dedicated to opening up tourism in Taiwan for Chinese tourists. It hopes such visits will enable the Chinese people to overcome the restrictions imposed by the Chinese authorities' strict control over media and access to information as well as to have firsthand experience of Taiwan's democratic and pluralistic society.
October 13, 2006
In a meeting with German Parliamentarian Johannes Andreas Pflug, President Chen Shui-bian emphasizes that in conducting cross-strait contacts, dialogues and negotiations, the authority and role of the government cannot be replaced. He expresses hopes that the Chinese authorities will face up to the fact that Taiwan is a sovereign country and resume dialogues with the Taiwanese government as soon as possible so that cross-strait relations can be normalized at the soonest possible time.
October 13, 2006
In a meeting with a Republican Youth delegation from the United States, President Chen Shui-bian notes that even the mechanism of the six-party talks for handling the situation on the Korean Peninsula has been unable to prevent leaks in the collective security mechanism. In order to face China's military threat and effectively respond to the cross-strait military imbalance in China's favor, Taiwan must reinforce its national defense and strengthen its national defense will and determination.
October 14, 2006
During an interview by Radio Taiwan International, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that the rampant problem of Chinese trademark infringement of renowned Taiwanese farm products has undermined the rights and interests of Taiwanese farmers. Both China and Taiwan are members of the World Trade Organization (WTO). With regard to agricultural issues, they can negotiate on the issues of agricultural products or related matters as well as Chinese trade infringement of Taiwan's agricultural products under the WTO framework. They can also discuss how to protect the intellectual property right (IPR) under the WTO framework.
October 15, 2006
MAC Vice Chairman Johnnason Liu indicates that the Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) should use the Cross-Strait Forum on Agricultural Cooperation held with the Communist Party of China (CPC) to demand that China strictly enforce and respect Taiwan's intellectual property rights (IPR). He also hopes that China can adopt an open, candid and non-evasive attitude, engage in concrete negotiations with Taiwan through formal channels, and establish a normal mechanism for resolving issues of economic and trade exchanges, agricultural cooperation and others.
October 15, 2006
Vice Chairperson Susan Chang of the Cabinet-level Financial Supervisory Commission (FSC) indicates at the Legislative Yuan that national security issues need to be considered in making the decision on whether to allow Taiwan's financial industry to invest in China. MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that it is inadvisable to rashly lift the restrictions since both sides have not yet signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on financial supervision and management.
October 17, 2006
The MAC issues a three-point statement on the "Cross-Strait Forum on Agricultural Cooperation" held by the Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) and Communist Party of China (CPC) in Boao, Hainan Province. It states that China's "four-point proposal," "seven joint recommendations," and "20 policy measures" harp on the same old ideas. The Chinese authorities have unilaterally introduced several preferential measures for Taiwan's agricultural industry over the past year due to political considerations. However, the facts prove that these measures have not been conducive to facilitating Taiwan's agricultural exports to China. On the contrary, they have had many negative repercussions. The MAC urges the Chinese authorities to reestablish orderly cross-strait agricultural exchanges and to engage in negotiations on agricultural issues of mutual concern at the soonest possible time.
October 17, 2006
Regarding the third "Cross-Strait Forum on Agricultural Cooperation" held between the Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) and Communist Party of China (CPC), the Council of Agriculture (COA) issues a statement indicating that in the year and a half since the holding of the first KMT-CPC forum, China has continuously stolen superior plant species and agricultural technology from Taiwan. China has also sabotaged Taiwan's farm industry by smuggling substandard and cheap agricultural products into Taiwan. At the same time, cross-strait agricultural competition has intensified and there has been no complementariness. The consensual proposals achieved by the forum involve the execution of government authority. Until the two governments across the Strait or organizations authorized by them engage in negotiations, these proposals will remain simply empty words that cannot be implemented.
October 18, 2006
The Immigration Office of the National Police Agency under the Ministry of the Interior approves the "Directions Governing Visits to the Mainland Area by Civil Servants with 10th Grade of Selected Appointment Rank and Below as well as Police Officers with Grade 4 Ranking and Below Whose Duties and Responsibilities Do Not Involve Confidential Matters on National Security." The Directions will come into effect on October 19, 2006.
October 18, 2006
The Immigration Office of the National Police Agency under the Ministry of the Interior approves revisions to the "Permit Regulations Governing the Entry into the Mainland Area by Civil Servants and Persons of Specific Status of the Taiwan Area." The revised Regulations will come into effect on October 19, 2006.
October 19, 2006
In an interview with Reuters, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that Beijing wants to define "direct transportation links" (for example, direct flights between Taipei and Guangzhou) as "domestic routes" and not as international air routes with a view to showing that Taipei is a part of China. Taiwan is opposed to this thinking. Moreover, since Beijing refuses to budge on air route, aircraft and other issues, it will not be possible to implement direct flights within the next two years at least.
October 20, 2006
During a Legislative Yuan interpellation, Premier Su Tseng-chang states that the government adopts a positive, open, and mutually beneficial attitude toward the issues of cross-strait tourism, direct transportation links and financial exchanges. However, reciprocal negotiations are still required in areas involving government authority.
October 20, 2006
MAC Vice Chairman Johnnason Liu states that it is the government's established policy to promote cross-strait "Three Links." However, both sides need to conduct negotiations on establishing the platform and mechanisms required for the process. At present, China is unwilling to negotiate on aviation rights. It also defines cross-strait flight routs as domestic routes in the light of its domestic laws. This creates a barrier to negotiations on direct cross-strait transportation links. China should first remove this obstacle to facilitate the negotiations in this regard.
October 24, 2006
At the Legislative Yuan, Premier Su Tseng-chang states that if China wants to talk with Taiwan, it should first promise to renounce the use of force against Taiwan and give up its insistence on the "one China" principle since "Taiwan is an independent sovereign state."
October 30, 2006
During the "Dialogue with Taiwan President Chen Shui-bian" videoconference symposium held by the Institute for Taiwan Studies at Waseda University in Japan, President Chen states that over the past half century Taiwan has been under the shadow of China's military threat. There are no other people who hope for peace more than the Taiwanese people. Taiwan will keep its promise to actively strengthen its self-defense capability and make the utmost efforts to maintain the peaceful status quo in the Taiwan Strait. However, Taiwan hopes that the international community can face up to the nature of the Taiwan Strait issue and join Taiwan in striving for a more democratic and peaceful world.
October 31, 2006
In a meeting with winners of the 60th Golden Merchants Award, President Chen Shui-bian reiterates that cross-strait direct transportation links involve not only the issues of facilitating cross-strait contacts and business interests, but also national security considerations. The "Three Links" should be promoted gradually and pragmatically, starting from the "Mini-Three-Links" to the "Big Three Links," and from direct cargo charter flights to direct passenger charter flights.
November 1, 2006
In a meeting with U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski, President Chen Shui-bian expresses hope that the Chinese leaders can engage in contacts, dialogue and negotiations with the democratically elected leadership of Taiwan. Disagreements and disputes between both sides across the Strait should be peacefully resolved through dialogue, without resorting to force or other non-peaceful means.
November 1, 2006
The MAC issues a press release indicating that a new stipulation has been formulated to allow the children of Hong Kong and Macao residents working in Taiwan to enroll in schools for foreigners in Taiwan and the affiliated kindergartens of such schools through the mutatis mutandis application of the relevant regulations governing the children of foreign nationals in Taiwan. The measure is aimed at helping companies recruit Hong Kong and Macao professionals to work in Taiwan. It is also consistent with the government's implementation of a relaxed educational policy and full respect for the educational choice rights of Hong Kong and Macao residents in Taiwan.
November 2, 2006
Presiding over a high-level government meeting on the Asia-Pacifc Economic Cooperation (APEC), President Chen Shui-bian states that over recent years China has instigated a series of actions to woo opposition forces in Taiwan. This year, moreover, it has strongly pressured APEC meeting host Vietnam and taken other actions to obstruct Taiwan from participating in APEC on an equal basis. These actions clearly demonstrate Beijing's united front strategy of "only allowing Taiwan to go to China, but not to the world." Therefore, the government should make every effort to internationally publicize the truth of the matter to the world.
November 2, 2006
At the award ceremony for the 6th Outstanding Organization in Specialized Cross-strait Exchanges Award, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that, specialized high-quality exchanges lay a solid foundation for the positive development of cross-strait relations. It is hoped that with the support of organizations involved in such exchanges, the two governments across the Strait can pool their efforts and deepen significant exchanges to promote goodwill interaction, peace and mutual trust in cross-strait relations.
November 3, 2006
In an interview with Taipei correspondent of the U.K.-based Financial Times Kathrin Hille, President Chen Shui-bian indicates that the so-called peace agreement based on the principle of "no Taiwan independence, no use of force by China" is nothing short of an agreement to surrender. It means capitulating. Everyone knows that such a peace agreement would change rather than maintain the status quo. Its precondition is recognizing the one-China principle and ultimate unification is its conclusion. It would be impossible for Taiwan to accept such an agreement.
November 3, 2006
In response to Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) Chairman Ma Ying-jeou's so-called stance about "Taiwan's pledge of not seeking independence in exchange for China's commitment of not using force against Taiwan," the MAC issues a position paper indicating that: The Republic of China is an independent sovereign country. The status quo in the Taiwan Strait is that both sides across the Strait have no jurisdiction over each other. There is no such issue of "independence" or "unification" between them. The KMT is advocating the position that, "Taiwan should make a pledge of not seeking independence in exchange for China's commitment of not using force against Taiwan". This stance links two circumstances that have no direct relation. It represents a regressive interpretation of the status quo in the Taiwan Strait. It also entirely ignores the rights and interests of the 23 million Taiwanese people and the right of the people to determine the future of Taiwan.
November 7, 2006
At a 2006 gathering of all the council members of the Overseas Compatriot Affairs Commission, President Chen Shui-bian states that along with the enhancement of China's overall national strength over recent years, China's diplomacy towards Taiwan at present is to adopt a hard-line "three outs": to dig out, squeeze out and block out Taiwan's diplomatic allies and role on the international stage. In facing this difficulty, Taiwan definitely needs to resolutely stand up, go out into the world. We should unceasingly speak for Taiwan, and we should seek to win Taiwan's rightful international personality. President Chen appealed to the world to face up to the fact that Taiwan has existed as a sovereign country in the world.
November 9, 2006
Attending the 5th International Conference of the Global Alliance for Democracy and Peace, President Chen Shui-bian states that although China has repeatedly declared that its rise is "peaceful," the international community universally considers the so-called "rise" to be a "China threat," to which it has maintained a high-level of wariness and misgiving. Since China has insisted that China be ruled by a single-party dictatorship, it has vigorously resisted, pressured and oppressed political reform. In recent years, economic prosperity in China has not led to any easing by the authorities in Beijing in their control over power. Rather, China has shown retrogression in terms of political participation as well as freedoms of religious, speech and media. Moreover, China is the world's biggest censor of the online press.
November 9, 2006
In a speech to the Global Alliance for Democracy and Peace, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that public opinion surveys indicate that maintaining the status quo between both sides across the Strait is the most acceptable thing to the overwhelming majority of the Taiwanese people. The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) government wants to ensure that the status quo of Taiwan's substantive independence will not be militarily threatened by China. Regarding the future direction, the government will move towards an open attitude and not exclude the development of any form of relations with the Chinese government of China, so long as such ties have the consent of the Taiwanese people.
November 10, 2006
During a question-and-answer session of the Legislative Yuan, Premier Su Tseng-chang indicates that both sides of the Taiwan Strait should first establish a financial supervision and management mechanism. Until then, the government will not approve banks to rashly invest in China. In addition, Vice Premier Tsai Ing-wen states that, "So long as both sides across the Strait have not signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on financial supervision and management, further legislative motions and actions will be of no avail."
November 10, 2006
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs issues a press release indicating that Taiwan has always advocated that the President of the Republic of China should personally participate in the APEC Economic Leaders' Summit. However, due to obstruction and suppression by China, the ROC President has in past always personally designated a leader to represent Taiwan at the meeting in consideration of the overall harmony of APEC and in the hope of not causing difficulties for the host member. The Taiwan representative has been afforded the same courtesies and status that are extended to the representatives of other APEC members at the meeting. Taiwan is an official and full member of APEC. It has the same duties as other APEC members, and it also enjoys the same rights.
November 13, 2006
In a meeting with a U.S. Republican National Committee delegation, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that the government hopes that opening up tourism in Taiwan for Chinese tourists will enable the Chinese people to experience first-hand Taiwan's democratic and pluralistic society and gain an understanding of the true face of Taiwan. He also appeals to the international community to jointly push China on information transparency.
November 14, 2006
In a meeting with senators of the ruling party in Australia, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu expresses hope that China will handle the matter of Taiwan's participation in the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing according to international practice. The government continues to promote negotiations on substantive issues to improve cross-strait relations. At present, there have been concrete progresses on the issue of charter flights, and consensus has been reached with China on four types of specialized charter flights across the Taiwan Strait. Negotiations are also actively underway with China on opening up tourism in Taiwan for Chinese tourists.
November 14, 2006
In a statement on the handling of the "Self-government Act Governing Transportation between Penghu County and the Mainland Area," the MAC indicates that matters covered by the Self-government Act involving central government authority do not fall within the scope of local self-government. Stipulations in the Self-government Act that contravene Article 95-1 of the "Act Governing Relations between Peoples of the Taiwan Area and Mainland Area" and Paragraph 1, Article 25 of the Local Government Act (concerning affairs beyond the limits of self-government) shall be invalid, according to Paragraph 1, Article 30 of the Local Government Act.
November 16, 2006
In a meeting with lecturers of a U.S. "Confidence-Building Measures" (CBMs) program, President Chen Shui-bian states that the key points of CBMs are to prevent war from erupting in the Taiwan Strait and establish a mechanism for cross-strait peace and dialogue. He also indicates that the national security of Taiwan is a common language of the entire citizenry and must transcend the interests of political parties and individuals. A sound platform for cross-strait dialogue is possible only if Taiwan establishes a complete national security and defense mechanism. However, the establishment of this kind of dialogue platform does not rely on the leaders of any political parties to cross the Strait to give speeches, hold meetings or shake hands. This is because Taiwan's overall interests definitely cannot be downgraded, localized or de-governmentalized.
November 16, 2006
During a question-and-answer session at the Legislative Yuan, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu indicates that in implementing the policy, the government will take a "greenlight" attitude toward allowing Taiwanese contract semiconductor producers to establish eight-inch silicon wafer plants in China using Taiwan's 0.18-micron process technology. However, whether or not restrictions will actually be eased will not be made until the Ministry of Economic Affairs has completed related detailed plans.
November 16, 2006
MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu indicates that the infrastructure in Kinmen and Matsu is currently insufficient. The MAC, together with the Ministry of Transportation and Communications and other related agencies, is currently assessing plans to expand the airports in Kinmen and Matsu, as well as overall load volume and demand. Before the end of the year, the MAC will complete a review of proposals to expand the scope of the "Mini-Three-Links."
November 17, 2006
With regard to the "Regulations of the People's Republic of China on Administration of Foreign-funded Banks" announced by the Chinese authorities, and in response to groundless criticisms made against the MAC and other government agencies by the media and specific persons concerning the draft amendment to Article 36 of the "Act Governing Relations between Peoples of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area," the MAC issues the following statement: Cross-strait negotiations on establishing a financial supervision and management system is the precondition for ensuring effective supervision of banks. The ruling and opposition parties should forge a consensus to unanimously demand that the Chinese authorities negotiate with Taiwan on establishing a financial supervision and management system.
November 27, 2006
MAC Vice Chairman Johnnason Liu indicates that the issue of ceilings on China-bound investments by Taiwanese businesspeople needs to be jointly discussed by related government agencies, the general public, and professionals to formulate a commonly acceptable direction compatible with the nation's overall economic interests and the economic interests of individuals.
November 27, 2006
Executive Yuan Spokesman Cheng Wen-tsang issues the government's basic position on the acquisition of Advanced Semiconductor Engineering, Inc. (ASE). He indicates that, "Cross-strait policy factors do will not have any remarkable or immediate effect on the acquisition case," especially since an application filed by the ASE for investing in China has been submitted for approval and is currently under review by the Investment Commission of Ministry of Economic Affairs. The government will treat the case with an open mind, and make an in-depth review and necessary adjustments in terms of policy and practical issues, so that cross-strait policy can more fully meet the overall interests of the nation and the needs of enterprises as well.
November 28, 2006
With regard to the proposed acquisition of Advanced Semiconductor Engineering, Inc. (ASE) by the Carlyle Group, Premier Su Tseng-chang emphasizes that in dealing with the case, the government will insists on the principles of "Taiwan's identity, policy initiative, and government leadership."
November 29, 2006
At a seminar held at the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) in the U.K., MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that China continues to strengthen its military capabilities and has deployed along its coast over 800 missiles targeted at Taiwan to militarily intimidate Taiwan. Beijing has resorted to every conceivable means to pressure Taiwan in the international arena, arousing the indignation of the Taiwanese people towards China.
Chairman Wu further notes that in March 2005, China unilaterally drafted an "anti-separation law" (ASL) that changed the status quo in the Taiwan Strait, expanding the conditions for taking military action and establishing a legal basis for a military attack against Taiwan. Beijing has also forced other countries to adopt the "one China" principle, which states that Taiwan belongs to China and that is fundamentally inconsistent with the fact that Taiwan has independently existed.
Chairman Wu indicates that Taiwan and China have reached an agreement on cross-strait cargo charter flights and the opening up of tourism in Taiwan for Chinese tourists. Taiwan hopes to hold negotiations and talks with China, but the Beijing authorities are not yet willing to do so. Chairman Wu appeals to the international community to make use of various occasions and opportunities to continue encouraging China to resume negotiations with Taiwan.
December 1, 2006
In a meeting with a delegation from Hong Kong's Democratic Party, MAC Vice Chairman You Ying-long states that Beijing's insistence on the "one-China principle" has resulted in an abnormal phenomenon in which there is a complicated relationship of cooperation and opposition as well as exchange and deadlock among both sides across the Strait. Both sides should temporarily put aside their disputes over sovereignty and engage in reciprocal and pragmatic negotiations to jointly promote the healthy development of the cross-strait situation.
December 4, 2006
In a meeting with the "A-Bian's Friends Club," President Chen Shui-bian states that the options for Taiwan's future should be open and should not have just one conclusion.
December 4, 2006
During a visit to Advanced Semiconductor Engineering Incorporated (ASE), President Chen Shui-bian states that it is the economic and trade policy of the government to pursue sustainable development and social justice. Globalization does not mean Sinification. Businesses need to have a concept of risk management and not put all of their eggs into one basket. The Executive Yuan should promote the plan aimed at encouraging the backflow of China-based business capital to Taiwan.
December 4, 2006
In issuing reference materials for a draft amendment to Article 35 of the "Act Governing Relations between Peoples of the Taiwan Area and Mainland Area," the MAC indicates that consideration should be given to the reduction of the negative impact that may be caused on Taiwan by China-bound investments as well as to the needs of domestic enterprises. To simply raise the ceiling on China-bound investments would be to put the cart before the horse and would not resolve the fundamental issues.
December 5, 2006
In a meeting with Ambassador Alfred Capelle, Permanent Representative of the Republic of the Marshall Islands to the UN, Ambassador Ivan Romero-Martinez, Permanent Representative of Honduras to the UN, and Minister Juan Alfredo Buffa, Deputy Permanent Representative of Paraguay to the UN, President Chen Shui-bian indicates that UN Resolution 2758 only resolves the issue of China's representation in the United Nations and does not resolve the issue of the representation of the 23 million Taiwanese people in the United Nations. According to the principle and spirit of universality of membership proclaimed in the United Nations Charter, the 23 million Taiwanese people should not be locked outside the door of the UN. At present, the government is studying the possibility of applying for UN membership under the name of Taiwan to avoid dispute over the issue of the right to represent one China resulting from applications for UN membership under the names of Republic of China, Republic of China on Taiwan, or Republic of China (Taiwan).
December 5, 2006
In an interview with Deutsche Welle, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that China has demanded that Taiwan should first accept the "one China" principle if it wants to engage in negotiations on the issue of direct cross-strait transportation links, treating such links as domestic routes. This political obstacle is the main hindrance to progress in cross-strait negotiations. Both sides should conduct reciprocal negotiations on talks regarding aviation rights and the signing of an agreement on aviation rights.
December 6, 2006
In a meeting with a delegation of members of the lower house of the Spanish parliament, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that Taiwan's efforts to expand its international survival space have encountered suppression from the Chinese authorities at every turn. China not only does not recognize Taiwan, but it has also incessantly suppressed and restricted Taiwan's efforts to participate in the international community through every conceivable means. The Chinese authorities have stopped at nothing to interfere in such cases, including Taiwan's bid to join the World Health Organization, which is extremely important to the health and welfare of the 23 million Taiwanese people, as well as Taiwan's participation in the activities held by non-governmental or civilian organizations, such as a global competition for the commemorative postage stamps design held by the UN Secretariat, the World Hairdressing Championships, and Miss Universe contest. As a result, Taiwan has repeatedly encountered the unfair treatment and suppression in the international arena.
December 7, 2006
President Chen Shui-bian meets with European Parliament Member Bastiaan Belder, who is also the rapporteur of the "Report on EU-China Relations." President Chen Shui-bian indicates that the main content of the said report includes opposition to the EU's resolution on lifting its arms embargo against China, firm support for Taiwan's participation in the WHO and other international organizations, and support for the peaceful resolution of differences and disputes across the Taiwan Strait. He calls for respect for the human rights of the Taiwanese people as a whole and Taiwan's admission to the international community, based on the principles of universality of membership proclaimed in the UN Charter and of "health care without borders."
December 7, 2006
In a meeting with European Parliament Member Bastiaan Belder, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that even though the authorities in Beijing strictly control media and speech and suppress religious freedom, Taiwan still actively promotes cross-strait religious exchanges in the hope of promoting the early realization of religious freedom in China.
December 13, 2006
President Chen Shui-bian meets with a French delegation led by Chairman Christian Bataille of the France-Taiwan Parliamentary Friendship Group from the French National Assembly. He indicates that China still has a notorious record on freedoms of speech, the press and religion. The EU's intention to lift its arms embargo against China would be nothing different from encouraging an unfree and non-democratic China to use force against a democratic Taiwan, thereby posing a great threat to peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region.
December 14, 2006
MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu meets with a French delegation led by Chairman Christian Bataille of the France-Taiwan Parliamentary Friendship Group from the French National Assembly. Chairman Wu indicates that Taiwan is highly concerned about the development of democracy and human rights in China. The executive and legislative bodies of Taiwan and the democracies of Europe should closely cooperate to urge China to improve its human rights record and move toward democracy.
December 14, 2006
MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu delivers a speech at the "Seminar on China's Changing Investment Environment in 2006 and Taiwanese Businesspeople's Future Business Strategies." He indicates that the government is strengthening risk management mechanisms. At the same time, it is also easing restrictions on Chinese businesspeople intending to visit Taiwan and promoting an open-door policy to relax visits to Taiwan by Chinese tourists. The government hopes that in addition to their China-bound investments, Taiwanese businesspeople can also integrate Taiwan's advantages into their business strategies and consider investing back in Taiwan.
December 14, 2006
The MOEA issues a press release announcing the revised "Principles Governing the Approval of Investment or Technical Cooperation in Mainland China" and the newly stipulated "Directions Governing Policy Review and Coordination for Major China-bound Investment Projects." The revised Principles and new Directions clearly define major investments, the review procedures and items for major investment projects, investor coordination items, and due investor commitments.
December 20, 2006
In a meeting with the Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) legislative caucus, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu indicates that it is the established policy of the Taiwanese government to open up tourism in Taiwan for Chinese tourists, and the sooner, the better. On the issue of Chinese airline companies establishing offices in Taiwan, the MAC will earnestly consider a plan that can be acceptable to both sides.
December 20, 2006
The Immigration Office of the National Police Agency under the Ministry of the Interior issues a press release stating that from December 20, 2007, it will remove the requirement that letters of guarantee for applications by residents of China, Hong Kong and Macao for entry to Taiwan be submitted to the police agencies located in the area where the guarantor's household is registered for guarantee return processing.
December 21, 2006
The MAC issues a "Situation Analysis: Severn Years after Macao's Handover." The report indicates that in the seven years since Macao's handover, although civilian exchanges between Taiwan and Macao have steadily become frequent, official exchanges await development. The MAC hopes that the government of Macao can adopt a more open approach toward establishing a normalized and institutionalized communication and contact framework.
December 27, 2006
The MAC issues a press release indicating that China's Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) has announced that during the period of the upcoming Beijing 2008 Olympic Games, restrictions on reporting by Taiwan's media would be eased. This move is intentionally taken by China to create the false impression of media exchanges with Taiwan. However, no democratic country in the world will impose time limits on the rights of reporters to cover the news and then nullify those rights at the end of that period. China's announcement of new regulations governing news coverage has openly proved to the world that the Chinese authorities lack all familiarity with and respect for freedom of the press.
December 29, 2006
Regarding China's white paper on national defense, MAC Vice Chairman Johnnason Liu indicates that China has completely ignored the international community's deep suspicions over China's military expansion, and this will only increase international concerns over the rise of China. The white paper deliberately distorts Taiwan's democratic values and significance. It also re-emphasizes the importance of upgrading military capabilities for national security and unification. This shows that China continues to adopt tough-handed measures against Taiwan, and will even intensify its military threat against Taiwan, casting a shadow over the future outlook for cross-strait relations.
December 29, 2006
The MAC issues a press release stating that in accordance with the conclusions reached by the Conference on Sustainable Development of Taiwan's Economy, the relevant government agencies have reviewed policies on eight-inch wafer fabrication technology and have decided that the restrictions on technologies used for producing eight-inch wafers in China will be relaxed to 0.18-micron, from the current 0.25-micron level. Such permission is limited to the transfer of technology by a parent company in Taiwan to its invested enterprise in China for self-use only.
December 29, 2006
The MAC issues a press release stating that after accumulating experience in implementation of the "Mini-Three-Links" for many years, the MAC has conducted a comprehensive assessment of the related policies and execution and reached the following initial conclusions: In the wake of the strengthening of the concept and the mechanism on "proactive management and effective liberalization" in the past two years, greater improvement has been made in the security management aspect of the "Mini-Three-Links." However, due to the fact that both sides of the Strait could not yet conduct effective negotiations, the space for the expansion and relaxation of the "Mini-Three-Links" policy is still very limited. Fortunately, there is room for improvement in the execution of the "Mini-Three-Links." After a thorough assessment, the MAC will make adjustments in several regards to enhance the positive benefits of the "Mini-Three-Links."
December 31, 2006
Taiwan's Central Bank Governor Perng Fai-nan states that the New Taiwan dollar represents national sovereignty and cannot be replaced by another currency. Once Chinese tourists are allowed to bring their renminbi (RMB) into Taiwan, they must convert their RMB into the NT dollars. The RMB is prohibited from circulation in Taiwan.