MAC Chairman Speaks at the Monthly Luncheon Hosted by the European Chamber of Commerce Taipei
Mainland Affairs Council Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu indicated today (March 29, 2005) that China’s stubborn insistence on the passage of the “anti-separation law” (so-called anti-secession law) was an unilateral move to change the status quo of mutual non-jurisdiction across the Strait. It is a move which has affected the development of cross-strait relations. Taiwan has reaffirmed its basic position of peace and democracy while facing the impact from the passage of the law. As a result, Taiwan has received high praises from the international community for its rational way of handling the issue. After the passage of the law, the Taiwanese government will continue to monitor its possible effects closely. Premier Frank Hsieh has stated that the Taiwanese government will not revert to the “no haste, be patient” economic and trade policy of the past. Instead, it will continue to implement the consensus and resolution achieved during the Economic Development Advisory Conference in 2001.
Chairman Wu made the above remarks in his speech on Current Cross-Strait Situation and the Government’s Policy toward China at the monthly luncheon hosted by the European Chamber of Commerce Taipei.
Chairman Wu pointed out that increased cross-strait trades and exchanges have led to the need to negotiate various practical issues. These issues include the clearing mechanism for Taiwan and mainland Chinese currencies, imports from China, avoidance of double taxation, and intellectual property right protection. Negotiations are required for the resolution of these issues in the future. In addition, China has recently “requested” a prominent Taiwan businessman to voice his support for the “anti-separation law. It is a clear indication that the businessman had been under tremendous pressure from the Chinese government. The signing of an agreement to safeguard Taiwanese businessmen and their investments has thus become an urgent issue.
The Members of the European Chamber of Commerce Taipei expressed their concerns regarding Taiwan’s domestic political situation. After the speech, many questions were raised during an open forum, including those on the constitutional amendment and the election of National Assembly representatives in mid-May.
Established 15 years ago, the European Chamber of Commerce Taipei is aimed to promote the interests of European business investments in Taiwan. Its members include European multinational companies and Taiwan trade representatives of various European countries. Approximately 90 representatives were present at the luncheon and engaged in extensive exchange of opinions with Chairman Wu.