The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) stated today (27th) that the Republic of China is a sovereign and independent country. Each side of the Strait is not subordinate to the other; this is the status quo, as well as the reality. Regarding the decision on the future of Taiwan and the form of cross-Strait relations to be developed in the future, the opinion of the 23 million people of Taiwan should be respected; differences should be resolved by peaceful means as well. The MAC reiterated that the Government welcomes the concern from any country or government over the matter and their assistance in promoting cross-Strait relations. However, no individual should deny the status quo and the fact that the Republic of China is a sovereign and independent country. Opening choices for the direction of the future development of cross-Strait relations should also be respected.
The MAC stated that in his May 20 inaugural address and National Day address, President Chen Shui-bian has constantly emphasized that we have fully displayed our initiative, goodwill, and sincerity in order to resume the normalization of cross-Strait relations and to reopen the door to cross-Strait negotiations. It is hoped that the China authorities will properly interpret and favorably consider the future development of cross-Strait relations, and take a pragmatic and positive attitude in showing its sincerity toward the resumption of talks to positively benefit the advancement of cross-Strait relations.
Regarding the criticism lashed by China’s Taiwan Affairs Office on our promotion of democracy during its press briefing today, the MAC emphasized that President Chen Shui-bian has already expressed his understanding of the China authorities’ persistence in the “one China” principle during his inaugural address. However, he has also urged China to respect the deep conviction of the Taiwanese people to practice democracy, to love peace, to seek survival, and to pursue progress. We hope that China would face up to the proposals made by President Chen Shui-bian in his National Day address with empathy.
With regard to the chartered flight proposal, the MAC reiterated that under the condition that both sides do not set any political precondition, the Taiwan Government has already shown its goodwill and flexibility toward the request of “two-way flights” and “no stopover at a third area” by requesting China to authorize an appropriate representative as soon as possible to engage in negotiations with us. Taiwan will likewise authorize an appropriate representative based on the related regulations to engage in negotiations with China.
The MAC stated that the proposal to peacefully resolve cross-Strait disputes is an issue that cannot be evaded in cross-Strait exchanges and interactions. Both sides should jointly bear the responsibilities, seek a consensus and draw up a concrete plan through dialogues to maintain permanent peace and stability on both sides of the Strait. Taiwan has been taking the initiative to reduce cross-Strait conflict and has exerted its greatest efforts to keep its promises. The MAC urged that China should also do its part in resuming negotiations and interactions under the premise of upholding the welfare of the peoples on both sides of the Strait.