Lai Shin-yuan: The third Chiang-Chen Talks have laid the foundation for normalization of institutionalized negotiations between the SEF and the ARATS, with major significance for promoting the normal development of cross-strait relations
Mainland Affairs Council Minister Lai Shin-yuan listened to a report today (April 29, 2009) from the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) on the results of the third Chiang-Chen Talks. After hearing the report, Minister Lai indicated that the two sides have signed nine agreements and reached one consensus since institutionalized contact channels were resumed between the SEF and the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS) last year. These achievements have written a new page in cross-strait relations, as well as established an example for cross-strait relations based on "mutual non-denial." This round of talks not only extends and expands the results of the past two talks, but also underscores that institutionalized negotiations between the SEF and the ARATS have been normalized. This is an important indicator of peace and stability in cross-strait relations.
SEF Chairman Chiang Pin-kung headed the negotiation delegation to the MAC to present a report at 3:30 p.m. on the process and specific results of the third talks between the SEF and the ARATS. MAC Minister Lai Shin-yuan first expressed thanks to the delegation for its hard work and efforts. She also expressed strong approval for the three agreements signed during the talks, including the "Agreement on Joint Cross-Strait Crime-Fighting and Mutual Judicial Assistance," "Cross-Strait Financial Cooperation Agreement " and "Supplementary Agreement on Cross-Strait Air Transport," as well as for the consensus reached with the Mainland side on jointly promoting Mainland investment in Taiwan.
Minister Lai stated that with full authorization from the MAC, the SEF signed the agreements in coordination with negotiations by related ministries and departments, achieving highly fruitful results. These agreements will uphold the order of cross-strait exchanges and protect the rights and interests of the people. This outcome has been a long-held hope in all walks of society and it is worthy of high approval. Minister Lai reiterated that the government's position on cross-strait negotiations is to advance in an orderly and gradual manner under the highest principle of "putting Taiwan first for the benefit of the people." Since May 20 last year, the government has consistently promoted cross-strait policy with "mature, steady, and rhythmic" steps. For the welfare, rights and interests of the 23 million people of Taiwan, the government must promote and closely monitor cross-strait policy in a pragmatic and gradual manner.
After hearing the SEF’s report, Minister Lai emphasized that, regarding follow-up implementation of the agreements, the government will request various related agencies to strengthen promotion of the three agreements and their subsequent accompanying measures, as well as to begin advance study and preparations for issues during the next stage of talks. The related ministries and departments will also actively reinforce communication with the Legislative Yuan and various sectors of society, as well as strengthen our efforts to explain all of this to major countries so as to build broad consensus and understanding. Minister Lai and Chairman Chiang also hope that colleagues at the SEF and the MAC will continue to work together for the normal development of cross-strait relations so as to achieve deeper, more substantial and more orderly exchanges and interactions across the Taiwan Strait.