Lai Shin-yuan: The numerous positive messages conveyed by the US on cross-strait relations are very positive and encouraging for Taiwan
American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) Chairman Raymond F. Burghardt and others paid a courtesy call to MAC Minister Lai Shin-yuan this afternoon (March 18, 2009). The two sides exchanged views and deeply discussed US views on cross-strait relations, the development of cross-strait relations in the current phase, and the progress of the next round of cross-strait negotiations.
Chairman Burghardt stated that he was meeting with President Ma Ying-jeou and related persons under the instruction of the new US administration. The main purpose of his visits is to convey the message that the Obama administration is very supportive of developments in cross-strait relations. He also clearly expressed America's strong approval for Taiwan's efforts to promote benign cross-strait interactions.
During the visit, Chairman Burghardt expressed concern for the future development of cross-strait relations and the progress of holding the third "Chiang-Chen Talks." Minister Lai expressed thanks to the Unite States for its support of Taiwan's cross-strait policy. She emphasized that the stable development of cross-strait relations is consistent with the interests of Taiwan, mainland China, the US, Japan and the region. The numerous positive messages conveyed by the US on cross-strait relations are very positive and encouraging for Taiwan.
Minister Lai emphasized to Chairman Burghardt that cross-strait relations are dynamically developing. The government’s goal of promoting the development of cross-strait relations is to maintain the status quo in the Taiwan Strait over the long term. This status quo is that the Republic of China is an independent sovereign country, and that the two sides of the Taiwan Strait exist in a peaceful state of "no unification, no independence and no use of force." Minister Lai stated that in the current phase, the government would expand economic, cultural and social interaction across the Strait to establish an environment for long-term peace and stability in order to seek the maximum social and economic benefits for Taiwan. Minister Lai also briefed Chairman Burghardt that the next phase of negotiations had already begun, and the two sides would sign an agreement on related issues. In the future, the MAC will continue to strengthen communication with persons in various sectors of society to achieve the greatest consensus in Taiwan.