January 1, 2003
In his New Year Day Message, President Chen Shui-bian mentions that there is a need for both sides of the Strait to establish an "interaction framework for peace and stability," which can serve as a major objective in the present stage to which both sides can strive for together.
January 10, 2003
In an address at the opening ceremony of the first class of the Strategic Studies Program of the National Security Bureau, President Chen Shui-bian expresses his belief that the current moment provides a new opportunity for reopening cross-Strait talks and negotiations, and hopes that both sides of the Strait return to sincere negotiations and dialogue, and widely exchange views on issues that concern both, in order to ease cross-Strait relations and stabilize the cross-Strait situation.
January 11, 2003
Kinmen's "Oriental Star" vessel carries a 145-strong delegation, composed of the Yang clan and representatives from all sectors in Kinmen and headed by Kinmen County Councilor Yang Ying-hsiung, and docks at Houzhu Harbor in Quanzhou. This materializes the first direct passenger transport link between Kinmen and Quanzhou in more than 50 years.
January 16, 2003
In a meeting with the US Congressional Taiwan Caucus, President Chen Shui-bian expresses that only after the long-term political divergent views between both sides of the Strait are put aside can negotiations start. Now since we cannot accept the Mainland's so-called principles of "one China" and "one country, two systems," and we have been suppressed in the diplomatic arena and threatened by its deployment of missiles, therefore we cannot sit down to talk on issues that concern the "Three-Links" and the direct transportation links. This has to do with the inability to put aside political prejudices. Therefore, we hope to establish a structure for cross-Strait peace and stability to dissolve these prejudices.
January 18, 2003
In a tea party at the Office of the President with participating guests of the "International Inter-Parliamentary Conference ," President Chen Shui-bian reiterates and explains three points, namely, 1) Taiwan is a sovereign and independent state, and not part of any other country; it is not a local province of another country, and neither is it a special administrative region of another country; 2) only Taiwan's 23 million citizens have the right to choose and decide over the future of Taiwan; and 3) Taiwan will remain as it is in 2005, and will never become a "second Hong Kong" or a "Chinese federation."
January 20, 2003
In a meeting with members of the US National Committee on American Foreign Policy Delegation, President Chen Shui-bian expresses that the opportunities in future cross-Strait relations are on the side of Taiwan. The Mainland's setting of its Taiwan policy only until 2004 is a big mistake. Our Government will remain running until after 2004. Both sides of the Strait need only to maintain peace and stability in the future and do not expect to have any changes and breakthroughs in the short term.
January 21, 2003
In a year-end press conference, MAC Chairperson Tsai Ing-wen points out that the cross-Strait direct transportation links have positive and negative effects on Taiwan's economy, and involve complicated matters such as national security and economic security. It is hoped that this will not be treated as a political issue. It is also hoped that both sides of the Strait open negotiations on the issue of direct transportation links as soon as possible. It is better that earlier negotiations on cross-Strait direct transportation links be conducted.
January 21, 2003
In an interview with the US think tank, the Research Institute for Foreign Policies, President Chen Shui-bian emphasizes that Taiwan is not a part, a local government, or a province of another country. He also calls on the Beijing Government to face the reality of Taiwan-China relations, reopen talks, and strengthen exchanges as soon as possible. Only in this way will mutual trust be established, that will pave the way for dialogue between the high-level officials of both sides.
January 23, 2003
In an inspection tour at Kinmen, Premier Yu Shyi-kun calls on the Mainland to make breakthroughs in the development of the "Mini-Three-Links" by coming to the negotiating table for a dialogue.
January 26, 2003
Cross-Strait Lunar New Year chartered flights scheme sets a historical record. The MAC points out that the policy of indirect chartered flights has been implemented as planned and shows the Government's good intentions toward Taiwanese businessmen in the Mainland. This is also beneficial to positive interaction between both sides of the Strait.
January 27, 2003
At a press conference commemorating his anniversary in office, Premier Yu Shyi-kun talks on cross-Strait relations and reiterates that the "Three-Links" are not a panacea, and since it can possibly bring about positive and negative effects on Taiwan's industries, both sides of the Strait should talk and negotiate under the principles of sovereignty, parity, and dignity, as soon as possible.
February 6, 2003
President Chen Shui-bian writes Pope John Paul II expressing his earnest wish that the tensions across the Taiwan Strait and the Korean Peninsula will diminish and the hope for dialogue and peace will grow as time goes on.
February 7, 2003
The Ministry of Economic Affairs announces that Taiwanese newspapers can be shipped to the Mainland area via Kinmen and Matsu and effective immediately.
February 20, 2003
In an address to the Hsieh Nien Fan (or Year-End) Banquet of the American Chamber of Commerce, President Chen Shui-bian points out that Taipei and Beijing need to engage in trade and economic cooperation in order to lay a sound foundation for the long-term development of cross-Strait relations.
February 22, 2003
Forty Taiwanese people board flights to Hong Kong on February 21 and are refused entry by the Hong Kong SAR Government and deported via the same aircraft to Taiwan. Some of them were even carried to the airport by Hong Kong Government personnel with bound hands and legs. We express our serious protest against the barbaric actions of the Hong Kong Government, which disregard human rights.
February 27, 2003
The MAC's Taipei Economic & Cultural Center officially starts issuing Taiwan entry visas to Macao's residents and foreign nationals in Macao.
March 9, 2003
Regular Sunday commercial "Mini-Three-Links" routes between Kinmen and Xiamen start with five vessels sailing in both directions between Kinmen and Xiamen, providing convenient transport for passengers traveling between both ports.
March 11, 2003
In a meeting with the "Group of Overseas Chinese from Florida and the Southern United States," President Chen Shui-bian points out that the overseas Chinese community should unite regardless of political affiliation in the face of the Mainland's wooing their support in anti-independence activities to promote unification and to shut the ROC out of the international community. They should throw their weight behind the Global Alliance for Democracy and Peace in fighting for the international community's recognition of democratic Taiwan and to counter the Communist threat.
March 20, 2003
In connection with the US war on Iraq, which is a major international event, the MAC reiterates that the search for peace and stability in cross-Strait relations has always been an objective of the Government. In the past two and a half years, the Government has also been taking concrete steps to ease and improve cross-Strait relations.
March 20, 2003
With regard to the US-UK coalition force officially declaring war on Iraq, President Chen Shui-bian issues the Government's stance at the air base in Shuishang, Chiayi. He calls on the Mainland to help maintain stability on both sides of the Taiwan Strait and the Asia-Pacific region. Moreover, he calls on Asia-Pacific countries, the US, Japan, and South Korea, to maintain peace and stability in the region together.
March 25, 2003
The MAC resolves that the scope of the implementation of the "Mini-Three-Links" at Kinmen and Matsu will be temporarily suspended to prevent the risk of the spread of SARS in the areas of Kinmen and Matsu.
March 28, 2003
In order to fight the SARS epidemic, the Executive Yuan calls on the people to refrain from going to the Mainland, Hong Kong, and Vietnam, in order to prevent further spread of the disease through cross-Strait contact. The MAC announces that the visa of Mainland spouses and high-tech personnel in Taiwan is automatically extended if already expired.
April 10, 2003
The MAC releases a two-point statement expressing its position on Hong Kong's promulgation of the proposed National Security legislation based on Article 23 of the HK Basic Law.
April 11, 2003
With regard to the intention of Mainland officials to assist Taiwan in SARS prevention, and repeatedly take advantage of the SARS issue to downgrade Taiwan as a province of China, the MAC issues a statement seriously reiterating that Taiwan is not a province of the People's Republic of China, and that it does not welcome Mainland officials taking advantage of the SARS epidemic in taking politically-motivated actions.
April 21, 2003
The Bureau of Immigration, National Police Administration, Ministry of the Interior announces that since the SARS epidemic in the Mainland has turned serious, the stay of Mainland spouses whose permits have expired will be automatically extended from April 30 to May 31, in order to prevent cross-Strait travel from affecting the work of curbing SARS in Taiwan.
April 25, 2003
The MAC expresses that the epidemic situation in Hong Kong has not turned better and there were two SARS cases that entered into Taiwan, causing the epidemic in Taiwan to worsen. The Government decides to suspend the issuance of "landing visa" to Hong Kong residents for one month.
April 29, 2003
On the occasion of the 10th anniversary of the Koo-Wang talks, MAC Chairperson Tsai Ing-wen issues a written statement pointing out that both sides of the Strait, now facing a serious challenge of the SARS epidemic, should establish a mechanism for updating each other of the SARS epidemic as early as possible and should cooperate in the research of disease prevention, which are the most pressing tasks, to guarantee the lives and material possessions of the people on both sides of the Strait.
April 29, 2003
In a written statement with a theme on the "resumption of negotiations as the way to a win-win situation," issued during the celebration to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the Koo-Wang, Singapore talks, SEF Chairman Dr. Koo Chen-fu emphasizes that although the stances of both sides are different, there is a need for continued dialogue "amidst tolerance for different opinions" precisely because there are differences.
April 30, 2003
In order to prevent passengers from area's with a concentration of SARS cases from affecting, the SARS prevention work in Taiwan by entering Taiwan through Macao, the MAC announces the implementation of "the Procedural Measures for the Entry of Taiwan nationals, Macao Residents, and Other Foreign Nationals into Taiwan via Macao."
May 5, 2003
In order to prevent illegal contact between peoples of the Taiwan area and the Mainland area from causing a loophole in Taiwan's efforts to curb SARS epidemic, the Executive Yuan announces the implementation keypoints in the reinforcement of the investigation and arrest of smugglers and stowaways, called the "Disease-free Program". The implementation period is temporarily set until the end of June.
May 17, 2003
Due to the spread of the SARS, the Executive Yuan announces the temporary suspension of passenger travel and cargo transport by sea between Kinmen and the Mainland. Other operations will be maintained, including applications of personnel and cargo for entry and exit as well as the regulations governing the transport of goods via the offshore islands . The length of the temporary suspension will be discussed at the appropriate time depending on the SARS situation.
May 20, 2003
After the Mainland boycotted Taiwan's application to become an observer at the World Health Assembly, President Chen Shui-bian states at a meeting of the Central Standing Committee of the Democratic Progressive Party that agencies concerned, including the ruling and opposition parties and all sectors in society, will be invited to discuss how to push ahead with a public referendum on "Taiwan's participation in the World Health Organization," to enable the whole world to hear the voice of Taiwan, and to show the consensus and determination of the 23 million Taiwanese people.
May 25, 2003
The MAC urges the Mainland again that, to avoid further hurting the feelings of the Taiwanese people, the Mainland should not obstruct Taiwan's participation in the World Health Organization or Taiwan's cooperation and exchange activities with other countries and international organizations, so as to benefit cross-Strait relations.
June 12, 2003
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) issues a position paper about the addition of the word TAIWAN on the cover of passports, and points out that the inability of immigration authorities of other countries and airline companies to properly distinguish between passports of the Republic of China and those of the Mainland has caused inconvenience to Taiwanese travellers abroad. With a view to providing convenience to Taiwanese nationals and for practical reasons,the MOFA has been decided that the word TAIWAN be added under the national emblem on the cover of ROC passports. The new passports will be issued on September 1.
June 19, 2003
MAC Chairperson Tsai Ing-wen states that due to the easing of the SARS situation in the country and in consideration of the public opinion in the areas of Kinmen and Matsu, the relatively low risks of the spread of the disease via the transport of goods as well as the overall disease prevention policy, it has been decided that the goods transport of the "Mini-Three-Links" be partially resumed as of today after the recommendation has been approved by the Executive Yuan.
June 25, 2003
President Chen Shui-bian states at a lunch meeting with owners of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that a public referendum on unification vs. independence will not be implemented.
June 25, 2003
The MAC feels regret at the Mainland's open opposition to Taiwan's move to hold a public referendum, emphasizing that Taiwan's policy of dedicating its efforts to maintain the stability of cross-Strait relations has not changed and that Taiwan will keep its promise on the "Four Nos plus One" policy.
June 30, 2003
The MAC's Report on Situation Study and Analysis on the 6th Anniversary of the Turnover of Hong Kong points out that since the turnover of Hong Kong, although political operations can be considered stable, there exist certain worries over the prospects of freedom of the press and judicial independence in Hong Kong.
July 1, 2003
With regard to Hong Kong's future restrictions on the action and speech of Hong Kong residents and foreign nationals proceeding to Hong Kong in the form of a "National Security (Legislative Provisions) Bill," the MAC especially calls on the Hong Kong Government to place importance on maintaining and gradually developing all kinds of exchanges and interaction between Taiwan and Hong Kong.
July 2, 2003
MAC Chairperson Tsai Ing-wen points out at an Executive Yuan session that Hong Kong's legislation of the "National Security (Legislative Provisions) Bill" is a very serious matter, which has not only attracted the attention of the international community, but has also caused the possible regression of Taiwan-Hong Kong relations.
July 3, 2003
In a special interview with Japan's Mainichi Shimbun in Taipei, with regard to the issue on cross-Strait direct transportation links, President Chen Shui-bian states that this issue involves jurisdiction and security problems. The management of immigration and quarantine matters cannot be entrusted to the civilian sector. Government intervention is necessary. So long as the Mainland persists in the "One China" Principle, Taiwan cannot approve the direct transportation links.
July 4, 2003
Speaking at the joint opening ceremony of the Executive Yuan's Seminars on National Development Studies and on Women Leaders' Development, President Chen Shui-bian reiterates that if there were to be changes in Taiwan's status quo, then the choices and decisions should be made by the people through a public referendum. Otherwise, no country, government, political party, or individual can change Taiwan's destiny, its future, or its independent status quo. The President also reiterates that as long as the Mainland is willing to abandon the use of force against Taiwan during his term, he guarantees that the "Four Nos plus One" policy will remain unchanged.
July 8, 2003
The Government Information Office officially relaxes the importation of Mainland books written in simplified characters, and promulgates the "Permit Regulations for the Sale of Mainland Publications in Taiwan."
July 10, 2003
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs releases a formal statement pointing out that since the founding of the Republic of China in 1912, its sovereignty has never been interrupted. The People's Republic of China has never had jurisdiction over the Taiwan area since its establishment in 1949. It is an undisputable fact that there are two distinct political entities having jurisdiction respectively over their own territory on both sides of the Taiwan Strait. Taiwan is definitely not a part of the People's Republic of China.
July 14, 2003
Considering that the general SARS situation in Taiwan and abroad has eased, and in order to gradually resume normal trade and economic as well as personnel exchanges between Taiwan and Hong Kong, the Offshore Control Division of the Executive Yuan states that the issuance of the "fourteen-day temporary stay (landing visa)" for Hong Kong residents is going to be resumed effective as of today.
July 16, 2003
The MAC announces that the passenger and cargo transport operations of the "Mini-Three-Links" at Kinmen and Matsu are fully resumed effective as of today.
July 17, 2003
The MAC states that restrictions on activities related to cross-Strait exchanges, such as military people, government employees, and school teachers going to the Mainland to visit relatives and sick family members; Mainland people who reside overseas coming to Taiwan for professional exchanges, and Mainland people belonging to category 2 and category 3 coming to Taiwan for sightseeing activities, are lifted effective as of today. Applications may be submitted according to related regulations of the "Permit Regulations Governing the Entry of the People of the Taiwan Area to the Mainland Area."
July 17, 2003
In a special interview with the Far Eastern Economic Review, President Chen Shui-bian states that a dialogue and negotiation on cross-Strait issues should be made under the conditions that Taiwan will not be downgraded, will not be treated as a local government, and will not be marginalized. It would be impossible for the cross-Strait direct transportation links to be materialized under the "one China" principle. It is clearly a sign of surrender to implement the "Three-Links" under the "one China" principle. The Government cannot sacrifice the sovereignty, dignity, security, and overall interests of the country for the sake of a few people.
July 17, 2003
In an interview with the Asian Wall Street Journal, President Chen Shui-bian emphasizes that we cannot implement direct transportation links for the sake of implementing it, and further reiterates that as an "independent and sovereign country", Taiwan will never accept the Mainland's so-called "one China" principle just to be able to materialize the direct transportation links.
July 25, 2003
In a meeting with Mr. Christopher DeMuth, president of the American Enterprise Institute for Public Policy Research, and Mr. James Lilley, a senior researcher at the American Enterprise Institute, President Chen Shui-bian comments on the development of cross-Strait relations. He states that there has clearly been no breakthrough in cross-Strait relations until now, which has been entirely impeded by the Mainland's "one China" principle. It is impossible for Taiwan to accept the so-called principle of "one China."
July 28, 2003
The MAC approves the "Institutions Permitted to Invite Professionals from the Mainland Area to Come to Taiwan to Engage in Professional Activities and the List of Requirements for Such Applications," relaxing the entry to Taiwan by the industrial and technological professionals from the Mainland.
August 13-14, 2003
At a gathering with media executives during the "Journey of Witnessing the Progress of Taiwan," President Chen Shui-bian proposes for the first time the "three phases of the direct cross-Strait transportation links," which include the preparation phase, the negotiations phase, and the realization phase. He also reiterates the Government's attitude of "maintaining a firm stance while proceeding in a pragmatic manner" in dealing with cross-Strait affairs.
August 15, 2003
The Executive Yuan announces the Assessment of the Impact of Direct Cross-Strait Transportation. At the press conference on the "Executive Yuan's Assessment on the Direct Cross-Strait Transportation", MAC Chairperson Tsai Ing-wen says that the argument on the sovereignty by each side of the Strait cannot be solved within the short term. The "direct transportation links" is what needs to be implemented in the short- and middle-terms. Both governments have the duty to find a feasible negotiations model, wherein under the premise that Taiwan maintains its sovereignty, the Taiwan side will incorporate a degree of flexibility in the negotiations and the probable participation of civilian entities. If the Mainland is ready, then both sides can commence the talks on the direct transportation links right away.
August 27, 2003
In a meeting with a group of U.S. scholars and experts on Cross-Strait issues, President Chen Shui-bian expresses his views on the issues including Taiwan's national sovereignty, public referendum, and the direct cross-Strait transportation links. He emphasizes that before both sides commence talks, the measures for cross-Strait freight facilitation will be actively promoted, to serve as the preparatory work for the negotiations on the direct cross-Strait transport links.
August 27, 2003
At an Executive Yuan session, Premier Yu Shyi-kun calls on the Mainland again not to stage any boycott for whatever political reasons and to start negotiations with Taiwan as soon as possible on keeping a lookout for stowaways, in fighting against crime at sea, and in repatriating Mainland stowaways.
September 2, 2003
With regard to the addition of the word "Taiwan" on the new version of ROC passports, the MAC issues a statement pointing out that there has been for a long time a set of established operational procedures and required documents in processing visa applications and the entry procedures for peoples of Taiwan and the Mainland as well as Taiwanese and Hong Kong citizens into either side of the Strait. The new version of passports will not at all affect civilian exchanges between Taiwan and Hong Kong.
September 10, 2003
The MAC promulgates the measures for Cross-Strait Freight Facilitation.
September 16, 2003
In an address at this year's Mid-Autumn gathering and forum of responsible persons of the Taiwanese Businessmen's Associations in the Mainland, President Chen Shui-bian openly calls on the Mainland side to prioritize the rights and interests and the competitiveness of the Taiwanese businessmen to allow the smooth operations of the indirect chartered cargo flights so as to create favorable conditions for the future direct cross-Strait transportation links.
September 19, 2003
The Mnistry of Transportation and Communications promulgates the "Operational Procedures for Taiwanese Airline Companies to Apply to Operate Indirect Chartered Cargo Flights to the Mainland."
September 25, 2003
The Executive Yuan promulgated and implemented the measures for the cross-Strait freight facilitation a few days ago, which, effective immediately, allows Taiwanese airline companies to operate indirect chartered cargo flights across the Strait (ahead of their Mainland counterparts). These chartered cargo flights that are "unidirectional," "restricted," and "indirect" will start before both sides of the Strait commence negotiations on the direct transportation links and as long as they do not violate the policy framework of the cross-Strait air cargo transportation.
October 6, 2003
In an interview with the Washington Post, President Chen Shui-bian reiterates that "Taiwan will walk its own road, the road that is Taiwan's own," and that Taiwan should no longer be viewed as part of the Mainland. The so-called "one China" is actually "one country, two systems." The "one China with respective interpretations" or the "roof under one China" are all to downgrade, localize, and marginalize Taiwan.
October 9, 2003
The Legislative Yuan passes the amendment of the "Act Governing Relations Between Peoples of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area" in the third reading. The amendment originally contained 102 articles, of which 83 articles are amended. As a result, the Act totals up to 132 articles. The scope of amendment exceeds 80%.
October 9, 2003
The Legislative Yuan passes the amendment of the "Act Governing Relations Between Peoples of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area" after the third reading. The MAC issues a press release explaining that the biggest adjustment made in the amendment is in the establishment of a new order for long-term exchanges between the social, educational and cultural as well as the trade and economic sectors of both sides of the Strait, and further under the premise of guiding cross-Strait relations to gradually proceed toward normalization, comprehensive assessment and adjustment are made in such matters as cross-Strait negotiations, cross-Strait transportation links, personnel exchanges, trade and economic exchanges, and cultural and educational exchanges, in order to create a new legal mechanism that encapsulates "reasonable liberalization," "effective management," and "full implementation."
October 10, 2003
In his address at the 2003 National Day celebrations, President Chen Shui-bian states that there will always exist a "door to cooperation" and a "door to peace." The "door to cooperation" can open only if the "one China" and "one country, two systems" formulas are put aside. The "door to peace" can open only when China renounces its threat to resort to the use of force and halts its suppression against Taiwan internationally.
October 17, 2003
In his meeting with Therese Shaheen, Chairman and Managing Director of the American Institute in Taiwan, President Chen Shui-bian reiterates that as long as the Mainland doesn't attempt to use force against Taiwan, his assurance to keep his promise of the "four no's plus one" policy within his presidential term has remained unchanged. The implementation of a public referendum or the new constitution that will be jointly written by the Taiwanese people in 2006, will not contradict that promise made in his inaugural address.
October 22, 2003
In an address at the General Chamber of Commence of ROC, President Chen Shui-bian expresses that the Government will still maintain a stable cross-Strait policy and create a framework for a stable cross-Strait interaction.
October 23, 2003
In her talk at the "Joint Conference of the R.O.C.-New Zealand and New Zealand-R.O.C. Business Councils," MAC Chairperson Tsai Ing-wen emphasizes that with regard to the direct cross-Strait transportation links, the Government will try its best to promote the preparatory work for the transition period, but there is no haste in negotiations; otherwise, it will lose its advantage.
October 27, 2003
With regard to the direct criticism hurled at the Taiwan president by the Mainland authorities, the MAC issues a statement reiterating that, under the principle of parity, Taiwan's sincere intention to enhance cross-Strait relations remains consistent. As long as the Mainland authorities can have a little bit more pragmatism and trust and a little less resentment and politicking, there will be greater room for beneficial interaction in cross-Strait relations.
October 29, 2003
The MAC issues a press release pointing out that the unreasonable criticism made by the Mainland authorities at every detail of President Chen Shui-bian's itinerary abroad is rude interference in the external relations of the Republic of China, and has once more harmed cross-Strait harmony. The MAC urges the Mainland authorities again to maintain an attitude of mutual respect and non-interference in each other's internal affairs, to prevent harming cross-Strait relations.
October 31, 2003
In an interview with the USA Today, President Chen Shui-bian points out that, "the ball that can break the stalemate in cross-Strait relations has always been in China's court." Taiwan is a sovereign and independent country that does not belong to the People's Republic of China. The Mainland unilaterally sets the frame of the "one China principle" and tries to forcefully impose it on Taiwan, thereby downgrading, localizing, and marginalizing Taiwan, which Taiwan cannot accept.
November 1, 2003
In an address on the occasion of his receiving the Human Rights Award in New York, President Chen Shui-bian points out that the insufficiency of Taiwan's constitutional framework is the rationale upon which he has proposed the concept of "hastening the birth of a new constitution for Taiwan." He further stresses that holding referendums should not bear any relevance to his "Four No's Plus One" pledge. Neither should important matters concerning the future of Taiwan, including its constitutional development and the realization of a "national sovereignty," be simplistically interpreted as a political debate over "unification vs. independence."
November 2, 2003
In a special interview with the media during his attendance at the activities held in commemoration of the 100th Anniversary of the Independence of Panama, President Chen Shui-bian stresses that the Republic of China is a sovereign country, and is absolutely not a part of any country. Therefore, the Republic of China rejects the "one country, two systems" formula.
November 12, 2003
At a meeting with a delegation from the Brookings Institution, President Chen Shui-bian expresses his hope that Taiwan will hold a referendum on a new constitution on the December 10 World Human Rights Day in 2006. He further articulates his description of the cross-Strait relationship as "one country on each side, " as well as his advocacy of referendums and a new constitution is an integral part of Taiwan's democratic and constitutional reforms and has nothing to do with his "Four No's Plus One" pledge. Neither should these appeals be simplistically interpreted as a political debate over "unification vs. independence."
November 12, 2003
With regard to the irrational criticism made by the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office at its regular press conference repeatedly distorting President Chen Shui-bian's visit abroad and his stopover in the US, the MAC reiterates that the Mainland's action is flaring up the emotions of both sides of the Strait and has hurt the feelings of the Taiwanese people. Aside from expressing its utmost regret over the matter, the MAC also urges the Mainland authorities to immediately put a stop to this wrongful action.
November 17, 2003
With regard to the unreasonable criticism made by the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office on the "referendum legislation" being promoted by the Taiwan Government, the MAC urges the Mainland authorities to refrain from interfering with Taiwan's internal affairs and reiterates that the Mainland's unscrupulous criticism of Taiwan's head of state is not only useless in properly understanding Taiwan's public opinion and feelings, but is also of no help to the creation of cross-Strait harmony and stability.
November 20, 2003
During a meeting with the 2003 commissioners of the Overseas Chinese Affairs Commission, President Chen Shui-bian reiterates Taiwan should remain firm in the three democratic principles of "the expression of public opinion from bottom-up; no preconditions; and the people making a decision through referend" so as to keep on deepening the roots of democracy in Taiwan. He emphasizes once again that we absolutely cannot accept the Mainland's simplified interpretation of the timetable and objectives of our democratic system an issue of "unification vs. independence."
November 20, 2003
In an address at the Fourth Industrial Elite Award Commendation Ceremony, President Chen Shui-bian reiterates that the door to cross-Strait peace and goodwill must be jointly opened up by the peoples on both sides of the Strait, and that the dignity and welfare of the Taiwan people shall never be sacrificed in pursuit of further cross-Strait exchanges.
November 21, 2003
Premier Yu Shyi-kun officially announces that the chartered flights scheduled during next year's Lunar New Year Holidays for Taiwanese businessmen returning home from the Mainland will follow the model implemented this year, and the "Mini-Three-Links" route via Kinmen and Matsu. The Government has also considered the participation of Mainland carriers in operating the chartered flights and has allowed two-way flights based upon the negotiations and agreements between both sides of the Strait.
November 25, 2003
Speaking on "Cross-Strait Relations and Taiwan's Mainland Policy" at the invitation of the Examination Yuan, MAC Chairperson Tsai Ing-wen points out that the most important thought of Taiwan's Mainland policy is its firm advocacy of the Republic of China's sovereignty and independence. Cross-Strait relations will be normalized only on the basis of sovereignty, parity, and peace.
November 26, 2003
In reaction to the statement of the Spokesperson of the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office on Taiwan's "referendum legislation," the MAC issues a press release expressing regret and reiterating once again that the basic stance of the Mainland policy of the Republic of China remains unchanged. The Mainland authorities should maintain an attitude of mutual respect and not interfere with the democratization process in Taiwan, so as to preserve cross-Strait relations in harmony.
November 27, 2003
The Legislative Yuan passes the "Referendum Law."
November 27, 2003
Invited by the Exporters and Importers Association of Taipei to deliver a speech, MAC Chairperson Tsai Ing-wen expresses that the Mainland authorities should not simplistically interpret Taiwan's democratic development as a political issue on "unification vs. independence," even to the extent of unilaterally drawing a so-called "red line," causing unnecessary frictions and risks in cross-Strait relations. She also expects the Mainland to show a positive reaction so that the indirect chartered flights scheduled during next year's Lunar New Year Holidays will take off smoothly under positive cross-Strait interactions.
November 30, 2003
President Chen Shui-bian expresses that the Mainland is imposing an external threat on Taiwan by deploying 496 ballistic missiles within a radius of 600 kilometers and carrying out military exercises for the purpose of attacking Taiwan at any time. In order to ensure Taiwan's sovereignty and public security, a "defensive referendum" is going to be held on March 21 next year.
December 1, 2003
MAC Chairperson Tsai Ing-wen points out that the defensive referendum is a display of Taiwan's democratic power and should not be considered to be provocative. In facing the democratic development in Taiwan, the Mainland should make a profound observation and understanding of the opinion and expectations of the Taiwanese people, and not unilaterally set restrictions or make any unreasonable responses, which cause unnecessary friction and risks in cross-Strait relations.
December 4, 2003
In his meeting with US Senator Jeff Bingman, President Chen Shui-bian states that the majority of the Taiwan people want peace and loathe missiles, and that the planned "defensive referendum" is aimed at maintaining the status quo and avoiding any changes in the status quo. It neither involves the "independence vs. unification" issue nor breaches his "four no's plus one" pledge. The deepening and consolidation of democracy in Taiwan is to pursue lasting peace across the Taiwan Strait and security and stability in the Asia-Pacific region.
December 5, 2003
In a special interview with the New York Times, President Chen Shui-bian announces that the topic of the defensive referendum is that "the 23 million people of Taiwan will firmly demand that the People's Republic of China immediately withdraw all the ballistic missiles aiming at Taiwan and also openly and publicly announce and promise that they will not use force against Taiwan." He also reiterates that if the leadership in China can respond with goodwill and agree to immediately withdraw all the ballistic missiles aiming at Taiwan, and openly announce that they will not use force against Taiwan, then Taiwan will not hold a defensive referendum on March 20 next year.
December 8, 2003
In response to the the statement of Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao in his meeting with Annan, the MAC reiterates that the Mainland has kept on saying that it has not abandoned a peaceful solution to the cross-Strait issue, yet it has continued to facilitate all kinds of military deployment, including ballistic missiles, which are all aimed at Taiwan along its coastal areas, causing a serious threat to the stable conditions across the Taiwan Strait and even further difficulty in developing beneficial cross-Strait relations. The MAC urges the Mainland authorities to correctly understand the real significance of democracy and not to treat the efforts of the government and the people of Taiwan in promoting democracy with a biased attitude and a slanted view.
December 10, 2003
In his meeting with US Congressman Dan Burton, President Chen Shui-bian expresses a three-point view on the meeting between Bush and Wen and urges the international community not to accept Mainland's threat of force and missile deployment against Taiwan as a matter of course. The international community should not regard Taiwan people's efforts to deepen democracy, their will and efforts to maintain peace, and their worries about the Mainland's missile threat as provocative actions. The definitions of democracy, peace, threat, and provocation can by no means be determined by Beijing authorities unilaterally.
December 11, 2003
In her address at an international conference, attended by representatives from the US, Japan, and Taiwan, on "The Rise of China Revisited: Perception and Reality ," MAC Chairperson Tsai Ing-wen points out that the Mainland's deployment of 496 ballistic missiles aimed at Taiwan and the Mainland's recent intentional distortion of the intentions of Taiwan's leadership and people to initiate constitutional reform and referendum to deepen democracy have constituted a major obstacle to the display of the free will of the Taiwanese people and to the democratic progress in Taiwan.
December 15, 2003
In a special interview with the Financial Times, President Chen Shui-bian speaks on the issue of defensive referendum stressing that what President Bush concerns about is whether or not the status quo of Taiwan will be changed and that the Taiwan government has repeatedly emphasized that we do not intend to change the status quo. The referendum is to further safeguard the status quo of Taiwan and to avoid any changes in Taiwan's status quo.
December 17, 2003
With regard to the statement of the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office on the "Three-Links," the MAC hopes that the Mainland side would eliminate the obstacles hampering cross-Strait negotiations in a pragmatic attitude, so as to promote the smooth implementation of the direct transportation links and the "Three-Links." They should not use the "one China" principle as an excuse to boycott cross-Strait negotiations between the SEF and the ARATS.
December 26, 2003
In convening a meeting of the Presidential Economic Advisory Council, President Chen Shui-bian reiterates that Taiwan is willing to relax the visits to Taiwan by Mainland citizens to a larger extent for sightseeing and urges the Mainland side to responsed with goodwill.
December 29, 2003
In his year-end press conference, Premier Yu Shyi-kun states that the Government is willing to continue operating the chartered flights during the Lunar New Year Holidays, and even welcome two-way flights and additional flight points. However, since the matter involves the administrative powers of both sides, negotiations are necessary. It is regretted that the Mainland side does not have any interest in negotiations causing the chartered flights to be stalled.
December 31, 2003
In his year-end message, President Chen Shui-bian urges the Beijing authorities to publicly abandon the threat of the use of force against Taiwan, and to withdraw the deployed ballistic missiles aimed at Taiwan. Otherwise, nostalgia and soft appeals will never be able to draw the feelings of the Taiwanese people closer.
December 31, 2003
The MAC releases a press statement expressing regret over the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office's repeated malicious criticism and defamation of Taiwan's head of state. This behavior reflects the Mainland authorities' lack of the cultivation of democratic values and their lack of the willingness to maintain harmonious cross-Strait relationship. The MAC repeatedly urges the Mainland authorities to keep sober and to gain further understanding of the significance of democracy in Taiwan. They have to immediately put a stop to their conduct that intensifies the tension between both sides, as well as the intimidations and the irrational behavior that hurts the feelings of the Taiwanese people. Only by doing so can cross-Strait relations return to the right track.
December 31, 2003
The implementation date of the amendments of the "Act Governing Relations Between the Peoples of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area" approved by the Executive Yuan and the amendment and promulgation of the enforcement rules of the Act will be dealt with in two phases. The first phase, which is from December 31, 2003, includes the amended articles which are more pressing and require expeditious enforcement, such as Article 16, Article 18, Article 21, Article 22.1, Article 34, Article 79, and Article 89, and the articles in the amended Act that keep intact (which totals 47 articles). The rest of the amendments, which include cross-Strait personnel exchanges, the overall entry and exit system, the accompanying measures for Mainland spouses and their implementation, and the establishment and planning of new mechanisms for cross-Strait negotiations, will take effect on March 31, 2004.