Mainland Affairs Council

January 1, 2006
President Chen states in his New Year message that no matter how cross-strait relations develop, Taiwan will adhere to the four principles of "sovereignty, democracy, peace and parity." He also emphasizes that cross-strait economic and trade policies should not seek to fulfill the financial interests of any individual or corporation. Rather, the sustainable development of Taiwan is the greatest interest of our pursuit. More specifically, the government must "proactively" take on the responsibility of "management" in order to "effectively" reduce the risks of "liberalization." The administration focuses on Taiwan's long-term development, assuming the role of a gatekeeper to guard the nation's economic security against foreseeable risks and resisting making ingratiation or taking shortcuts. Therefore, "proactive management and effective liberalization" represents the new mindset and course of action for the government's future cross-strait economic and trade policies.

January 1, 2006
The MAC states in a news release that "proactive management" is aimed at ensuring the autonomy and sustainable economic development of Taiwan, and also intends to lay a solid foundation for "effective liberalization." To simplify cross-strait economic and trade policies to matters of "opening" and "retrenchment" would be a serious distortion of reality. The government and private enterprise must be able to establish sufficient confidence and ability, as well as management, for discussion on specific liberalization measures to have meaning. Such approach is also necessary to reduce the risks involved in liberalization, and to win the support and recognition of the people.

January 1, 2006
Speaking at a New Year tea reception of the Political Consultative Conference, China's President Hu Jintao emphasizes that the firm belief in the "one China" principle will never waver; the efforts to pursue a peaceful reunification will never be abandoned; the guiding principle of placing the hopes on the Taiwanese people will never change; and the opposition against separatist activities of "Taiwanese independence" advocates will never be compromised. China will actively expand cross-strait personnel contacts and exchanges in the economic, cultural and other fields; safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of Taiwan compatriots; enhance dialogue and exchange with political parties in Taiwan that oppose "Taiwan independence" and support the development of cross-strait relations; and promote the resumption of cross-strait dialogue and negotiations on the basis of the "1992 Consensus," so as to promote the development or cross-strait relations and uphold peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.

January 1, 2006
China's ambassador to the U.S. Zhou Wenzhong states in an interview with Xinhua News Agency that the Taiwan issue, which concerns China's sovereignty and territorial integrity, is always the most important and sensitive core issue in China-US relations. Handling the Taiwan issue properly is the key to a stable development of the China-U.S. relationship. China hopes the U.S. strictly abides to its commitments and works with China to oppose and contain the "Taiwan independence," so as to safeguard peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.

January 2, 2006
MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu notes at the Legislative Yuan that cross-strait economic and trade policy cannot be explained in two simple terms of "retrenchment" and "liberalization." Cross-strait policy in the future will continue to follow the original main course. However, the controllable part of westward investment must be managed more closely. Executive Yuan units and companies should mutually address detailed plans. The Ministry of Economic Affairs will also draft enforcing management proposals for these plans. "With proper management, there will be a lot of room for liberalization."

January 3, 2006
In a reception with the British-Taiwanese All-Party Parliamentary Group led by MP Lord Richard Faulkner of the House of Lords, President Chen states that the keynote of cross-strait economic policy in the past several years and even in the future has already been established and has not changed. There have only been adjustments and revisions in administrative areas inadequately managed in the past. Without "proactive management" there can be no "effective liberalization." If proactive management is not properly carried out, it would be better not to liberalize. This is the core value of "proactive management and effective liberalization."

January 3, 2006
Direct cross-strait links from Kinmen and Matsu mark their fifth anniversary. According to statistics compiled by the Kinmen Service Branch of the Immigration Office, National Police Agency and the Kinmen Harbor Service Office, a total of 264,088 passenger trips were made from Kinmen to Xiamen in 2005, while the number of passengers traveling from Xiamen to Kinmen was 258,231, for a total of 518,719 trips both ways.

January 4, 2006
Public security officials in Guangdong Province, China, acting on the basis of the "Kinmen Accord," extradite major wanted criminals Lin Chen-hsing and Wu Chao-hsun to Taiwan.

January 5, 2006
Xinhua News Agency reports that the Fujian Inspection and Quarantine Bureau will launch trial work on a series of new systems and measures this year with the aim of exploring and establishing a new inspection and quarantine system that involves Taiwan.

January 6, 2006
President Chen sends a letter to Pope Benedict XVI, responding to the pontiff's "Message for the 2006 World Day of Peace." The letter states that the resumption of cross-strait dialogue and the peace and security of the Taiwan Strait are goals that President Chen will continue to pursue. In the area of cross-strait relations, Taiwan will continue to act to ensure "goodwill reconciliation, active cooperation and permanent peace." The President urges His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI to continue to closely monitor the situation in China regarding human rights and religious freedom and to ask China to dismantle the missiles it has aimed at Taiwan and renounce the possible use of force against Taiwan. All these efforts will help ensure the peace and stability of the Taiwan Strait and the Asia-Pacific region.

January 6, 2006
The MAC issues a press release stating that the government's constitutional re-engineering project is aimed at strengthening democracy in Taiwan, enhancing the good management and efficacy of the government, promoting social justice and impartiality in Taiwan, and enabling Taiwan to become a competitive modernized country. The authorities in China have always interpreted the basic activities of democratic politics in Taiwan, the preservation of Taiwan's identity, and efforts to expand Taiwan's space for diplomatic movement as "de jure Taiwan independence." Such interpretation not only reflects Beijing's ulterior political agenda, but also clearly indicates the Chinese authorities' fear of democratic government. This type of political manipulation by Beijing not only will fail to win international support, but also indicates the Chinese authorities' inadequate understanding of "democracy." It poses, moreover, a serious obstacle to the peace and development of cross-strait relations.

January 6, 2006
MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that following successive trials of renminbi (RMB) currency exchange services carried out by the government in the Kinmen and Matsu areas last March, it was found that many people purchased RMB in anticipation of currency appreciation, resulting in RMB purchases nine-fold the level of RMB sales. This result was not fully consistent with the government's policy objectives, and the program will therefore remain in the observation phase.

January 6, 2006
In response to a Taiwan Affairs Office announcement that two pandas would be selected as gifts to Taiwan, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu expresses at a Council news briefing that the authorities in China have not discussed the matter in advance with the government of Taiwan. They have instead disrespected Taiwan through the use of media to engage in persistent propaganda campaigns aimed at manipulating the panda issue and its united front tactic. The Council of Agriculture also notes that China cannot unilaterally announce that it will send the pandas without an import permit issued by Taiwan. A decision on whether or not the pandas will be allowed into Taiwan will be made by March 23, 2006.

January 6, 2006
The most recent issue of Canada's Kanwa Defence Review reports that over the past 10 years, China's navy, air force and army have worked steadfastly to develop all-weather reconnaissance ability aimed mainly at monitoring Taiwan.

January 6, 2006
Taiwan Affairs Office Spokesperson Li Weiyi explains that representatives of the Straits Exchange Foundation were unable to attend the funeral ceremony for Wang Daohan because Wang had specified his wish for a simple ceremony. On a separate affair, Dai Xiaofeng, head of the Exchange Bureau of the Taiwan Affairs Office, expresses hope that the Taiwan side will respect public opinion and actively cooperate with the relevant agencies so that China's gift of pandas can arrive in Taiwan at an early time.

January 6, 2006
The Legislative Yuan approves draft revisions to sections of the Offshore Banking Act during the third reading. The revisions will achieve the policy objective of assisting Taiwanese businesses in making greater use of offshore banking units (OBUs) as financial deployment centers for their overseas and China operations. The revised act also stipulates that domestic banking units liberalize and assist in the handling of such operations, so that the functions of OBUs can be carried out more completely and efficiently.

January 6, 2006
Taiwan Affairs Office Spokesperson Li Weiyi states at a press conference that the Taiwanese leadership's repeated proposition of a timetable for "constitutional reform," constant agitating and divisive words on "Taiwan independence," and shifting message on promoting "constitutional reform" all point to heightened danger. One of the most urgent tasks for compatriots across the Taiwan Strait is to firmly oppose the splittist activities and safeguard peace and stability in the cross-strait region.

January 7, 2006
In an interview with the Central News Agency, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that in light of China's repeated declarations that it will not abandon the "one China" and "one country, two systems" principles, the opportunity for cross-strait relations to achieve positive breakthroughs on highly political issues within the next two years, including the establishment of a mechanism of military mutual trust, the building of an interaction framework for peace and stability, and the opening up of political dialogue, seems unlikely. Based on observations, the variable most likely to change in cross-strait relations will be "within China itself."

January 7, 2006
MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that the current policies on cross-strait cargo charter flights and opening Taiwan to Chinese tourists will not affect the government's resolve and progress in moving forward. Cross-strait consultations need to be held on such issues as soon as possible in order to implement various management measures and achieve a win-win outcome of liberalization in a managed way.

January 9, 2006
Taiwan Thinktank releases its latest public opinion survey results. A total of 66% of the respondents agreed that the government should adopt more proactive management in cross-strait exchanges, and 65% responded that the government should not accept the one China principle as a prerequisite for the holding of cross-strait consultations.

January 10, 2006
During a meeting in Beijing with the U.S.-China Working Group under the U.S. House of Representatives, led by Kirk Larsen, Wu Bangguo, chairman of the Standing Committee of China's National People's Congress, states that it is in the common interest of both China and the United State to oppose and check "Taiwan independence" and to safeguard peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. China appreciates that the U.S. has reiterated, on many occasions that it will adhere to the one-China policy, abide by the three Sino-U.S. joint communiques, oppose "Taiwan Independence," and reject any attempt of the Taiwan authorities aimed at unilaterally changing the status quo across the strait.

January 11, 2006
Officiating at a Coast Guard anti-smuggling exercise and pledge ceremony, President Chen states that as resource shortages become more serious each day, China is accelerating efforts to explore and exploit seabed resources in Taiwan's southern and eastern seas. Such efforts have not only caused tensions in the surrounding areas, but also constitute a major threat to Taiwan's national security and sovereignty. Therefore, Taiwan must face this situation with the highest level of diligence.

January 12, 2006
Foreign Ministry Spokesman Kong Quan urges Japan to scrupulously abide by its commitment on the Taiwan issue, and handle the issue of Lee Teng-hui's visit to Japan from the position of the overall situation of Sino-Japanese relations. They should not grant or provide a platform and venue for pro-independence activists in Taiwan.

January 12, 2006
In an interview with People's Daily Online, Taiwan Affairs Office Deputy Director Wang Zaixi expresses that the Taiwanese leadership to date has not changed its separatist position of insisting on "Taiwan independence," nor has it abandoned the use of a "constitutional referendum" to achieve de jure "Taiwan independence," leaving many latent concerns in cross-strait relations.

January 12, 2006
At a Central Committee tea reception for the 2006 Lunar New Year, Taiwan Affairs Office Deputy Director Zheng Lizhong states that in the new year, China will further promote cross-strait economic, trade and cultural cooperation and continue to maintain the trend of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.

January 12, 2006
In the first issue of "China's African Policy" paper, it is indicated that China has selflessly provided major assistance to Africa for many years, and the nations of Africa have also firmly supported China on such major issues as human rights and Taiwan.

January 14, 2006
During an inspection visit to Fujian, China President Hu Jintao stresses that China will practically strengthen personnel contacts and economic and cultural exchanges with Taiwan; push forward economic and technological exchanges and cooperation; strive for early realization of direct transportation links and carry forward the fine traditions of Chinese culture. He says that China will create better conditions to support and encourage Taiwanese businesses to invest in China; and he welcomes the participation of Taiwanese compatriots in Olympic Games construction projects and other relevant activities. China supports joint talks by non-governmental organizations on both sides based on the existing consultation model. It is also in favor of launching cross-strait passenger charter flights during holidays on a more regular basis and the early implementation of cargo charter flights. Cross-strait cultural exchanges of various sorts will be promoted. Moreover, young people on both sides should jointly shoulder and bolster exchanges and mutual promotion of national rejuvenation.

January 16, 2006
In a meeting with members of the US Democratic Party policy task force, President Chen expresses that the so-called "ultimate reunification" is in violation of the principle of the spirit of "sovereignty for the people." Only the 23 million people of Taiwan have the right to make decisions regarding the prospects, future, and fate of their country.

January 17, 2006
On an inspection tour in Kinmen, President Chen emphasizes that the balance of military power across the Taiwan Strait has shifted critically in favor of China, both qualitatively and quantitatively. China has steadily built up the number of tactical guided missiles aimed at Taiwan to 784 missiles. Moreover, in March 2005, China's National People's Congress passed the so-called "anti-separation law," authorizing the People's Liberation Army to resolve the Taiwan issue by "non-peaceful" means, adding a huge new variable in cross-strait relations.

January 17, 2006
The International Pledging Conference on Avian and Human Pandemic is held by the government of China along with the European Commission and World Bank. The conference brings together officials from over 90 countries and representatives of more than 20 international organizations to discuss the pledging of funds for the prevention of avian influenza. China refuses to invite Taiwan to send delegates to attend the event, ignoring the health rights and interests of the people of Taiwan. The refusal also hurts the feelings of the people of the two sides of the Taiwan Strait and is uncondusive to the healthy development of mutual trust between the two sides.

January 18, 2006
In an interview with Germany's Die Welt, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states Taiwan's wish to have the importation pandas be handled in accordance to the international conventions of endangered species importation and exportation. Beijing has politically manipulated the panda gift issue by labeling it a "domestic shipment." With regard to China's refusal to allow Taiwan to gain observer status at the World Health Organization, Chairman Wu believes that Taiwan wants to take on responsibilities in regional disease prevention work. When avian influenza breaks out in neighboring countries, Taiwan will become a dead corner in the global disease prevention network.

January 18, 2006
Chairman Jia Qinglin of the Chinese People's Political and Consultative Conference emphasizes in a meeting with representatives of the National Conference of Taiwan Affairs Office Directors that China will exert its utmost efforts and work hard on matters that are beneficial to the Taiwanese compatriots and the promotion of cross-strait exchanges. China will further strengthen cross-strait personnel contacts and economic and cultural exchanges, continue to introduce policies and measures to resolve issues of concern to the great number of Taiwanese compatriots and safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of Taiwanese compatriots. It will exert all efforts on matters related to the vital interests of the great number of Taiwan compatriots. China welcomes more Taiwanese compatriots to make business investments China and to work together on development for the benefit of compatriots on both sides of the Taiwan Strait. All government levels will fully assist and serve the Taiwanese compatriots. China hopes that non-governmental organizations on both sides can jointly hold consultations on cross-strait passenger and cargo charter flights at an early date and reach consensus on the simultaneous implementation of such services. This is to meet the strong demand of the great number of Taiwanese compatriots, especially within Taiwan's industrial and commercial circles. China will unceasingly work toward progress on the realization of comprehensive and direct "three links" across the strait. It will also fully implement the consensus reached between the Chinese Communist Party and the Kuomintang and People First Party, and continue to work for the resumption of cross-strait dialogue and negotiations on the basis of the "1992 Consensus."

January 19, 2006
In a meeting with Yoo Joon Sang, chairman of Korea's 21st Century Economic and Social Research Institute, President Chen notes that the experience of the Korean Peninsula is highly important and worthy of Taiwan's consideration at a time when some parties in Taiwan are promoting direct links across the Taiwan Strait. There are no direct links between North Korea and South Korea, except for humanitarian reasons. Taiwan has to think carefully before opening direct links across the strait based on national security and the country's best interest.

January 19, 2006
The MAC states that in conjunction with the special project to expand the "mini-three-links" during the 2006 Lunar New Year holiday, natives of Kinmen and Matsu will not be required to join a group in order to use the links for travel to and from China between January 20 and February 13. On January 17, 2006, the Immigration Office of the National Police Agency announced an application notice for the full program. The office and its related service branches began accepting applications from that day.

January 19, 2006
MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that the Lunar New Year charter flight program has been implemented for two consecutive years, and it is likely to continue for next year barring any unforeseen circumstances. The government also will not be content with just annual Lunar New Year charter flights, but rather will be satisfied if cross-strait consultations on passenger and cargo charter flights can be realized.

January 19, 2006
It has been discovered that people in China have registered the names of Taiwan's tea producing areas as trademarks. The MAC states that it will recommend representatives from the Taiwan Tea Merchants' Association to go to China and submit an application for an administrative relief to revoke the trademarks. If necessary, the matter will be resolved by legal means or through the World Trade Organization.

January 19, 2006
The Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) states in a press release that the names of seven major tea-producing areas in Taiwan have been registered by certain persons in China. The foundation sends a special letter to the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait expressing serious concerns. The SEF said it would ask the relevant agencies in China to confront this issue and promptly revoke all trademarks making unauthorized use of Taiwan place names.

January 19, 2006
The results of the "2005 Multinational Survey on Image of Taiwan" conducted by the U.S.-based Gallup Organization indicate that respondents in the U.S., Japan, the United Kingdom, France and Germany generally consider Taiwan and China to be two separate sovereign countries. Moreover, the majority said that China would incur a global punitive response if it used non-peaceful means to encroach on Taiwan's sovereignty.

January 23, 2006
Taiwan Affairs Office Deputy Director Wang Zaixi delievers a speech at the Third Symposium on China-Europe Relations and the Taiwan Issue in Hangzhou.

January 23, 2006
In an interview with Xinhua News Agency, He Shizhong, director of the Economic Bureau at the Taiwan Affairs Office, says he will earnestly carry out President Hu Jintao's instructions on the promotion of cross-strait economic and cultural cooperation and the consensus reached with the leaders of Taiwan's Kuomintang, People First Party, and New Party, uphold the interests of Taiwanese businesses, and promote full-scale cross-strait economic exchanges.

January 23, 2006
Statistics compiled by China's Ministry of Commerce indicate that in 2005, China approved 3,907 investments by Taiwan. The total contracted value of such investments was US$10.36 billion, and the actual utilized value was US$2.15 billion. Indirect trade between the two sides amounted to US$91.23 billion. China's exports to Taiwan totaled US$16.55 billion, and Taiwan's exports to China amounted to US$74.68 billion, resulting in a US$58.13 billion trade deficit for China.

January 24, 2006
MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that China continues to intentionally avoid interactions with the government of Taiwan in attempt to exclude the involvement of the Taiwanese government's authority. China has also used breakthroughs in consultations on specific cross-strait exchange topics to conduct an offensive aimed at "de-governmentalizing" and stripped the involvement of public authority in talks with Taiwan. China further hopes to achieve the tactical objective of "internalizing cross-strait issues" and "placing Taiwan on equal standing with Hong Kong and Macao."

January 24, 2006
A MAC news release indicates that China's approval of the "anti-separation law" last March in attempt to legalize the use of force against Taiwan and unilaterally change the status quo in the Taiwan Strait has heightened cross-strait tension. This is the main reason that cross-strait relations have been unable to develop smoothly over the past year. In practice, China continues to intentionally avoid interactions with the Taiwanese government in attempt to exclude the involvement of the Taiwanese government's authority. China has also used breakthroughs in consultations on specific cross-strait exchange topics to conduct an offensive aimed at "de-governmentalizing" and stripped the involvement of public authority in talks with Taiwan. China further hopes to achieve the tactical objective of "internalizing cross-strait issues" and "placing Taiwan on equal standing with Hong Kong and Macao."

January 24, 2006
Taiwan Affairs Office Spokesperson Li Weiyi states at a press conference that the Taiwanese authorities are selfishly harming the interests of tens of millions of Taiwan compatriots by imposing limits on cross-strait economic exchanges and cooperation. The ultimate victim is Taiwan's economy and the vital interests of the Taiwan public. In order to encourage the immediate achievement of direct "three links," China advocates that non-governmental organizations from both sides should hold consultations on "three links" issues. At the same time, personnel of competent agencies on both sides can participate in talks in a non-official capacity. China welcomes the Chinese Taipei Olympics Committee to arrange for Taiwanese athletes to participate in the Beijing games, and also welcomes Taiwanese compatriots to serve as volunteers during the games. In planning the route of the Olympic torch relay, the Beijing Olympics Organizing Committee will fully consider the wishes of the Taiwanese compatriots, and will satisfy their desire to share the joy and honor of the sacred Olympic flame.

January 24, 2006
At a routine press conference, China's Foreign Ministry Spokesman Kong Quan states that China has requested Japan to abide by the principle of the three political documents between the two sides including Sino-Japanese Joint Statement, to take concrete steps to fulfill its commitment on the Taiwan issue, and to properly handle relevant questions with caution.

January 25, 2006
The first cross-strait fishermen shuttle boat approved by the Council of Agriculture, the Wang Tai Sheng, transports 50 Chinese fishermen back to Fujian for the Lunar Year Year holiday.

January 27, 2006
The MAC states that treasury funds of NT$36.102 million have been eliminated from the Council's Chinese Development Fund's (CDF) 2006 budget, therefore severely affecting cross-strait exchanges this year.

January 28, 2006
Taiwan's bid for a seat at the World Health Assembly is blocked by China. The Secretariat of the World Health Organization entered the proposal into the agenda of the Executive Committee in contravention of the committee's procedural rules.

January 29, 2006
At a pre-dinner speech during a Lunar New Year's reunion at his home county of Tainan, President Chen says that Taiwan should follow its own road, and it should earnestly consider the serious task of whether or not to abolish the National Unification Council and Guidelines for National Unification.

January 29, 2006
The People's Daily publishes an editorial on "Striving to Build Peaceful and Stable Cross-strait Relations."

February 2, 2006
The MAC states in a news release that President Chen Shui-bian has recently proposed to seriously consider ceasing the function of the National Unification Council (NUC) and ceasing the application of the National Unification Guidelines (NUG). The proposal helps to remind the Taiwanese people that major changes have occurred to certain situations and therefore they must be reviewed. The NUC and the NUG have predetermined unification with China as the only and ultimate goal. This is a remaining vestige of the party-state system. Not only is this entirely inconsistent with the rational and democratic expectations of the people, but it also violates the mainstream opinion that "Taiwan's future must be decided through the free will of the 23 million Taiwanese people." This issue certainly requires further discussion, assessment, and study.

February 3, 2006
The police forces on both sides of the Taiwan Strait cooperate to seize nearly 60 kilograms of heroine and uncover a major drug smuggling operation.

February 5, 2006
PRC Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Kong Quan says that President Chen Shui-bian has again declared his "Taiwan independence" views. This again shows his stubborn insistence on the secessionist position of "Taiwan independence," and exposes the Taiwanese authorities' attempts to promote "Taiwan independence" activities. This is a dangerous movement that could sabotage the maintenance of peaceful cross-strait relations. He states that China has noted the U.S.'s reiteration on January 30, 2006
of its adherence to the one China policy and the opposition to the "Taiwan independence" position. He hopes that the U.S. and international community will stay on high alert over the dangers and serious harm posed by the activities of "Taiwan independence" secessionists.

February 6, 2006
While attending the 2006 Taiwan Businessmen's Association (TBA) Lunar New Year event, President Chen notes that the government will further enhance Taiwan's investment and business environment in the future through assistance and coordination in the areas of laws and regulations, tax system, land, labor, finance, and technology. It will also fully promote investment activities and attract more foreign investment to Taiwan. For example, encouraging Taiwanese enterprises abroad to return and invest in Taiwan in order to make domestic industries sounder, stronger and more able to develop smoothly in the future.

February 6, 2006
The media in China reports that troops participating in psych-warfare exercises in the Nanjing Military Region were communicating to enemy positions in the Southern Fujianese dialect and in English.

February 6, 2006
Deputy Director Zhou Ning of the State Council's Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) states that in 2006, the Bureau of Policies and Regulations will further coordinate in related areas to firmly oppose "Taiwan independence" secessionist forces from passing "constitutional reforms" and carrying out "de jure Taiwan independence" activities. It will study and draft relevant laws and policy measures to practically protect the legal rights and interests of the Taiwan compatriots. It will also promote and regulate cross-strait contacts and promote academic exchanges on cross-strait law.

February 7, 2006
In a speech at a Lunar New Year event for Tainan County natives residing in Taipei City, President Chen emphasizes that national sovereignty cannot be divided or shared. The national sovereignty of Taiwan belongs to the 23 million Taiwanese people and it cannot be shared with the 1.3 billion people of China under any circumstances.

February 7, 2006
The 2006 cross-strait Lunar New Year charter flight concludes with six participating cross-strait airlines transporting a total of 27,397 passengers, an average passenger occupancy rate of 81%. Taiwan-based airlines carried 14,856 passengers, representing a 90% occupancy rate. China-based airlines carried 12,541 passengers, representing a 73% occupancy rate.

February 8, 2006
While attending the 2006 Lunar New Year Gathering for industrial and commercial groups, President Chen states that the Taiwanese people must expand their vision and arrangement. They must not limit their view to short-term profit or fall deep into the narrow framework of cross-strait trade. Rather, Taiwan needs to set its sights on the world and seriously consider its sustainable development and where its principles and niches lie. If the people can grasp the lifeline of their destiny and development, any market can serve as a foothold for Taiwan's development.

February 8, 2006
The MAC issues a news release stating that the Taiwanese government has completed the related plans for cross-strait passenger and cargo charter flights and tourism in Taiwan for Chinese tourists based on the existing cross-strait trade and economic policies. It has also clearly designated a contact window for arranging and negotiating related matters with China. If China is sincere, it should respond concretely to Taiwan's proposal through the mutually authorized windows and actively make arrangements for cross-strait negotiations on related issues.

February 8, 2006
Vice Chairman Pu Zhaozhou of the China-based Straits Aviation Exchange Commission expresses the hope that cross-strait private industry organizations can immediately engage in discussions on holiday, weekend and routine passenger charter flights and cargo charter flights, reach a consensus, and arrange for their simultaneous implementation.

February 8, 2006
TAO Spokesperson Li Weiyi indicates at a regular press conference that the extremely provocative words of the Taiwanese leader after his New Year's Day message challenges the one China principle, which is generally adhered to by the international community. His statements to promote the so-called "constitutional reforms" underline the core objective of realizing "de jure Taiwan independence" through "constitutional reforms." The statements fully expose the leader's stubborn insistence on the secessionist position of "Taiwan independence." It also reveals again the government as a troublemaker and saboteur of cross-strait relations and peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region. Li also expresses hope that the offering of giant pandas to Taiwan will not be obstructed for certain political purposes. In addition, he hopes that private organizations in Taiwan's travel industry can promptly hold concrete talks with their Chinese counterparts.

February 8, 2006
Deputy Director Tang Wei of the Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macao Affairs Department of the Chinese Ministry of Commerce indicates that China has decided to resume cooperation with Taiwan on fishermen issues after temporary suspension of such ties in 2001.

February 9, 2006
In a speech at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs 2006 Spring Festival banquet for foreign diplomats in Taiwan, President Chen states the reality that the current cross-strait military balance is tipping increasingly in favor of China. It has invoked grave concerns from the United States, Japan and other Asia-Pacific countries. The international community's over-tolerance and negligence of China's military build-up and war preparations against Taiwan and its disregard of the Taiwanese people's outcry--their love for democracy and desire for peace--have resulted in serious misjudgments of the current imbalances in cross-strait political and military relations. Consequently, democracy in Taiwan and security interests of the Asia-Pacific "community of democracies," the United States, and Japan in the West Pacific are now jeopardized.

February 12, 2006
In a recent interview with BBC's HARDtalk TV, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu notes that neither sides of the Taiwan Strait have been under the jurisdiction of the other since 1949. The popularly elected president and National Assembly of Taiwan since 1996 symbolize the sovereign status of Taiwan. The government exercises exclusive sovereignty within the territory of Taiwan, which essentially makes Taiwan an independent state.

February 12, 2006
In a televised interview, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu expresses that certain people in China have stolen Taiwan's globally unique agricultural technologies. Moreover, Chinese President Hu Jintao recently demanded that Taiwanese businesspeople introduce one new type of agricultural product and technology to Fujian Province monthly. It is a move that would devastate Taiwan's agriculture. As a result, the Taiwanese government's engagement in proactive management is truly a practical approach to upholding the rights and interests of the Taiwanese agricultural sector and farmers.

February 13, 2006
China's Ministry of Commerce announces a decision to eliminate anti-dumping duties on unbleached kraft paper imported from the U.S., Thailand, Korea, and Taiwan.

February 14, 2006
While attending the founding ceremony of the Strategic Alliance for International Health Cooperation, President Chen states that China's avian influenza epidemic puts the world at serious risk. In view of frequent cross-strait contacts, Hong Kong and Taiwan are certain to be the first areas affected. The threat of avian influenza in China is not alarmist talk, but a grave task that health organizations worldwide dare not treat lightly. However, since the outbreak of SARS in 2003, the Chinese authorities have consistently sought to cover up and suppress outbreak reports. Not only is China the world's biggest "black hole" in disease prevention, but its act of ignoring the health interests of the people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait and in other countries of the world is immoral.

February 15, 2006
While presiding over a military promotion and award ceremony for lieutenant generals, President Chen states that China's insistence that Taiwan is a province and local governments of China runs counter to the mainstream democratic premise in Taiwan. As a responsible authority, the government cannot allow China to annex Taiwan's sovereignty; it cannot allow Taiwan's security to be threatened; and it cannot allow the future of Taiwan to be determined by any individual or political party.

February 15, 2006
According to statistics compiled by the Kinmen and Matsu harbor bureaus, 48,937 passenger trips were made between Kinmen and Xiamen during the 2006 Lunar New Year period, an increase of over 11,000 passengers, or 31%, over the same period in 2005.

February 15, 2006
China's Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait sends a letter to Taiwan's Straits Exchange Foundation expressing deep condolences over the death of Sun Yun-suan.

February 15, 2006
Chen Yunlin, director of the CCP Taiwan Affairs Office and the director-general of the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, sends a telegram to Yu Hui-hsuan expressing deep condolences over the death of her husband Sun Yun-suan.

February 15, 2006
Statistics compiled by China's National Tourism Administration indicate that China received 4.11 million Taiwanese visitors in 2005 and that Taiwan has steadily become an important tourism destination for China. During the same period, 160,000 people visited Taiwan from China.

February 15, 2006
At the opening ceremony of the Cross-Strait Travel Industry Social, China's National Tourism Administration Director Shao Qiwei appeals for the two sides to work together on building a new cross-strait travel cooperation framework with "two-way interaction, smooth channels, sound mechanisms, orderly development, mutual support, and win-win cooperation."

February 15, 2006
Dai Xiaofeng, director-general of the Exchange Bureau under the State Council's Taiwan Affairs Office, welcomes private travel industry organizations in Taiwan to exchange views with their Chinese counterparts on technical issues to facilitate holding initial formal discussions between representatives of cross-strait private travel organizations.

February 21, 2006
MAC Vice Chairman Johnnason Liu receives Kuomintang legislative caucus whip Tseng Yung-chuan and legislator Chu Feng-chih. Vice Chairman Liu stresses that in 2002, the government began allowing Type 2 and Type 3 Chinese tourists to visit Taiwan and it promulgated related policy plans and approval measures. China, in contrast, has announced 81 countries that its citizens are allowed to visit. However, Taiwan has not been included on this list to date. China also has not announced related measures, which indicates that the Chinese authorities have not made any necessary preparations regarding the legal application procedures or other technical aspects.

February 22, 2006
In a meeting with U.S. Representative Robert R. Simmons, President Chen notes that the NUC and the NUG are absurd remnants from an absurd time period mainly because they violate the spirit of "sovereignty of the people" and strip the Taiwanese people of the right to make a final decision over Taiwan's future.

February 22, 2006
In a meeting with a German parliamentary delegation, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu notes that China's rapid military build up in recent years poses a growing threat to Taiwan and seriously erodes the basic preconditions for the "four no's plus one" position. Taiwan is a democratic country and its people should be able to freely choose Taiwan's future. The National Unification Council and the National Unification Guidelines are remnants from the old party-state era. Predetermining unification with China as an ultimate goal clearly violates the current situation in Taiwan and is also at odds with the mainstream expectations of the people.

February 22, 2006
The MAC states in a news release that it is the Taiwanese government's established policy to implement passenger and cargo charter flights and allow Chinese tourists to visit Taiwan through cross-strait negotiations. Two years ago, the government not only completed relevant plans to allow Chinese tourists to visit Taiwan, but it also promulgated related approval regulations. Moreover, Taiwan has repeatedly urged China to engage in immediate negotiation with Taiwan. All these gestures have clearly highlighted Taiwan's consistent and basic position. However, China has never made a positive response to Taiwan's appeals and demands. A Taiwan Affairs Office official has declared that China will "soon" announce its management regulations governing the visits to Taiwan by Chinese tourists. But in reality, China has consistently delayed progress on this issue. We will continue to monitor whether China will act on its words and see if it is sincere about negotiating with Taiwan.

February 22, 2006
In a meeting with a delegation led by Kuomintang legislative caucus whip Tseng Yung-chuan, Director Chen Yunlin of China's Taiwan Affairs Office expresses the hope that cross-strait private airline carriers can hold immediate discussions on the implementation of holiday and routine cross-strait passenger and cargo charter flight service based on the existing model. China is willing to meet and exchange views with members of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) who support the development of cross-strait relations. He hopes that they can jointly promote passenger and cargo charter flights across the Taiwan Strait and visits to Taiwan by Chinese tourists. The draft of "Regulations on the Management of Tourism from the Mainland Area to the Taiwan Area" by the National Tourism Administration and other related departments will be released soon.

February 22, 2006
In an interview with reporters of Xinhua News Agency, TAO Director Chen Yunlin states that the leader of Taiwan has disregarded his frequent pledges since 2000. He has repeatedly called for the abolishment of the National Unification Council and the National Unification Guidelines, and is now set on carrying out the so-called "unification abolishment" project. This is a dangerous sign of promoting further "Taiwan independence" secessionist activities. China is closely monitoring the development of these affairs and is prepared to respond to the emergence of any possible complications.

February 23, 2006
In a meeting with a German parliamentary delegation, President Chen states that China not only does not recognize Taiwan as a sovereign and independent country and does not respect the right of the 23 million Taiwanese people's right to freedom of choice, but it also threatens the 23 million Taiwanese people with non-peaceful means. China's attempts to downgrade and de-governmentalize Taiwan are clearly incomparable to the situation prior to the unification of the two Germanys.

February 23, 2006
Xinhua News Agency publishes an article under the title of "Base motives, Dangerous Provocation," in which it is states that the leader of Taiwan has promoted further Taiwan independence secessionist activities, stirring up a new crisis in the Taiwan Strait.

February 24, 2006
The Bureau of Foreign Trade under the MOEA states that the two-way trade across the Taiwan Strait in 2005 totaled US$71.1 billion, netting Taiwan a surplus of nearly US$31.85 billion.

February 24, 2006
Dai Xiaofeng, director-general of the Exchange Bureau under the State Council's Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO), states at a TAO press briefing that he hopes cross-strait private travel industry organizations can promptly hold negotiations and reach an arrangement as soon as possible. China does not object to non-official participation of relevant Taiwanese executive personnel in the talks. He states that the "Regulations on the Management of Tourism from the Mainland Area to the Taiwan Area" have been drafted and will soon be announced.

February 26, 2006
The MAC solemnly states that the Chinese authorities have resorted to various means of downgrading and defaming the Taiwanese government. On the other hand, they have attempted to cover up, through various lip services, their actions aimed at annihilating the ROC. The Chinese authorities have repeatedly and seriously provoked the status quo in the Taiwan Strait, denied the fact of the ROC's existence, and restricted the Taiwanese people's right to self-rule. These actions have not only seriously undermined the development of cross-strait relations, but they have also hurt the Taiwanese people's feelings. Moreover, they have threatened peace and stability in the East Asia region.

February 26, 2006
In response to President Chen Shui-bian's promotion of the abolishment of the National Unification Council (NUC) and the National Unification Guidelines (NUG), responsible officials of CCP's TAO and State Council Taiwan Affairs Office note that President Chen Shui-bian has repeatedly called for the abolishment of the NUC and the NUG. He is starting to refine his plans and is preparing to act on them. He is brazenly taking a dangerous step of completely overturning his "four no's plus one" pledge. This further exposes his premeditated intention of carrying out new secessionist activities. More specifically, his intention to pass the so-called "constitutional reforms" is an attempt to pave the way for "de jure Taiwan independence." China absolutely will not tolerate "Taiwan independence," nor will it allow "Taiwan independence" secessionist forces to separate Taiwan from China.

February 27, 2006
While presiding over a high-level national security conference, President Chen issues a seven-point statement. In response to China's continual attempts to unilaterally alter the status quo in the Taiwan Strait via non-peaceful means such as military intimidation and its so-called "Anti-Separation Law," the following decisions are made at a high-level national security conference based upon reports and suggestions by the National Security Council and the discussions amongst related government agencies. The National Unification Council will cease to function. No budget will be allocated for it and its personnel must return to their original posts. The National Unification Guidelines will cease to apply. In accordance with procedures, this decision will be forwarded to the Executive Yuan for reference.

February 27, 2006
The MAC announces that according to its integrated analysis of public opinion surveys on cross-strait relations conducted last year by the Council and other institutions, an overwhelming majority of the people in Taiwan hopes that cross-strait relations will develop toward stability and peace. The majority also approves of the government's promotion of cross-strait exchanges in various fields under the principle that the security and interests of the nation are upheld. On the issue of domestic political parties or private organizations conducting exchanges with China, the vast majority of people believe that such exchanges should abide government laws and regulations and place priority on protecting the overall interests of Taiwan.

February 27, 2006
The Coast Guard Administration, Executive Yuan, announces the results of the joint investigation conducted by various agencies on the arrest of Chinese illegal immigrants in Taiwan from January to December 2005. During this period, the authorities tracked down a total of 744 cases of illegal immigration involving a total of 1,069 persons from China (887 males and 182 females) and 347 accomplices in Taiwan. Among them were six cases involving the breakup of planned illegal immigration and three cases involving organized smuggling intermediaries and sex trafficking rings.

February 27, 2006
The National Police Agency, Ministry of the Interior issues a report on the investigation and prosecution of Chinese residents for illegal actions in Taiwan between July 1 and December 31, 2005. The report states that 6,831 persons were arrested in this period, including 4,951 persons from China (531 for illegal immigration, 860 for visa overstays, 2,205 for working illegally or engaging in other illegal activities, and 478 for fake marriages). There were also 1,880 persons from Taiwan involved in the cases. There were 52 cases of arrests involving illegal immigration through intermediaries, intermediary arrangement of fake marriages for immigration purposes, and organized sex trafficking rings.

February 27, 2006
China launches a completely new version of its Chinataiwan.org website. TAO Deputy director Wang Zaixi attends the ceremony and presses the button to officially launch the new site.

February 27, 2006
Jia Zhibang, director of China's State Forestry Administration, expresses that the giant pandas are free gifts to Taiwan.

February 28, 2006
President Chen Shui-bian announces his agreement that the National Unification Council will cease to function. No budget will be allocated for it, and its personnel must return to their original posts. The National Unification Guidelines will cease to apply. In accordance with procedures, this decision will be forwarded to the Executive Yuan for reference.

February 28, 2006
The CCP Taiwan Affairs Office and State Council Taiwan Affairs Office are authorized to state that President Chen Shui-bian's decision to cease the function of the National Unification Council and to cease the application of the National Unification Guidelines are clearly intended to accelerate the promotion of "Taiwan independence" activities even though President Chen falsely claims that they "do not involve changing the status quo." Even though they clearly intend to maliciously provoke peace in the Taiwan Strait and create tensions in cross-strait relations, they are carried out under the pretext that China threatens Taiwan. Even though they clearly attempt to undermine the current foundation for cross-strait talks and close the door to cross-strait consultations, the Taiwanese authorities often talk about "establishing an effective mechanism of mutual trust and exchange through consultations and dialogue." Even though they are clearly selfish in their attempt to force the nightmare of the minority supported "Taiwan independence onto the 23 million Taiwanese people, the authorities claim that they "respect the Taiwanese people's freewill to choose."

February 28, 2006
China's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Liu Jianchao indicates at a regular press briefing that China urges the U.S. to clearly recognize the seriousness and danger of President Chen Shui-bian's "Taiwan independence" secessionist activities and to scrupulously adhere to its promises to China with regards to the Taiwan issue.

February 28, 2006
Jia Qinglin, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), states at the 12th meeting of the Standing Committee of the 10th CPPCC National Committee that resolutely opposing and checking "de jure Taiwan independence" activities are the most important and urgent tasks in China's Taiwan work.

February 28, 2006
In a meeting with the Swiss Defense Minister Samuel Schmid, President Hu Jintao states that despite strong opposition from inside and outside the island, the Taiwanese authorities have gone their own way. The decision to cease the function of the National Unification Council and cease the application of the National Unification Guidelines are a serious provocation to the one-China policy universally acknowledged by the international community and to the peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. It is also a dangerous step toward "Taiwan Independence." President Hu reiterates that it is China's unswerving will and determination to oppose "Taiwan Independence" secessionist forces and their activities and to safeguard the peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. China will continue to strive for the prospect of peaceful reunification and never tolerate the secession of Taiwan from China. Anyone who moves against the historical trend is doomed to fail.

March 1, 2006
The Executive Yuan issues a report to inform the results of ceasing the application of the National Unification Guidelines (NUG). During the session, Premier Su Tseng-chang states that the significance of ceasing the application of the NUG is to respect the will of the 23 million people of Taiwan, uphold freedom and democracy in Taiwan, maintain the status quo in the Taiwan Strait, and protect the people of Taiwan's freedom to choose their future.

March 1, 2006
The MAC issues an open letter to the Taiwanese business community in China, explaining that the government ceased function of the National Unification Council (NUC) and application of the National Unification (NUG) to preserve the long-term peace and stability of the Republic of China and safeguard the freewill of the 23 million people of Taiwan to choose their future. The MAC also earnestly expresses the government's unwavering effort to uphold the status quo in the Taiwan Strait and promote mutually beneficial cross-strait exchange measures. In addition, the government will make every effort to build a long-term stable environment so that Taiwanese businesspeople can conduct their businesses in China without distractions, continue to contribute to Taiwan's economy, have confidence in Taiwan's democracy, and be free of worries at home.

March 2, 2006
The International Trade Commission, Ministry of Economic Affairs, holds the first hearing on special defensive measures against low-priced towel imports from China under the WTO framework. Seven representatives from China, including officials of China's Ministry of Commerce, attend the hearing in Taiwan.

March 2, 2006
In a meeting with Russian Interior Minister Rashid Nurgaliyev, Chinese Vice President Zeng Qinghong states that the Taiwanese authorities' brazen move to cease the function of the "National Unification Council" and the application of the "National Unification Guidelines" are serious provocations against both the "one-China" principle, which is widely accepted by the international community, and peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.

March 2, 2006
In a telephone conversation with German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao states that there is a need to stay on high alert to the danger of the Taiwanese authorities' intensifying "Taiwan independence" separatist activities.

March 2, 2006
At an emergency meeting with United Nations (UN) Secretary General Kofi Annan and 16th term UN General Assembly President Jan Eliasson, Chinese Ambassador to the UN Wang Guangya conveys the Chinese government's grave concerns of over Chen Shui-bian's move to cease the functions of the National Unification Council and the application of the National Unification Guidelines.

March 2, 2006
The Central Committee of China's Taiwan Democratic Self-Government League holds a "Conference on Promoting Cross-Strait Private Exchanges with Taiwan Compatriots" in Beijing. The conference elects Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference Vice Chairman Zhang Kehui as the new league president. League Chairman Lin Wenyi is elected as Executive Vice President of the group; Liu Yiming, Wu Guozhen, Li Minkuan, and Zhang Huajun are appointed as Vice Presidents; and Zhang Ning is elected as Secretary General.

March 3, 2006
In an interview with Yomiuri Shimbun's International Department Chief Kiichiro Harano, International Department Director Kiichiro Wakayama, and Taipei Bureau Chief Toshinao Ishii, President Chen Shui-bian states that only the 23 million people of Taiwan have the right to choose and decide the future of Taiwan and cross-strait relations. The current peaceful status of the Taiwan Strait should be upheld not only in the interests of Taiwan, but also in the shared interests of Japan and the U.S.

March 3, 2006
In an interview with Hong Kong's Oriental Daily, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that ceasing the function and application of the National Unification Council (NUC) and its guidelines are consistent with upholding the status quo. The move will not change the role of the MAC or Taiwan's cross-strait policy. He explains the mistake that some people have made by characterizing the move as a retrenchment in cross-strait policy. Previously announced policies will continue to be implemented, including visits to Taiwan by Chinese tourists, cross-strait cargo and passenger charter flights, and media exchanges.

March 3, 2006
At a regular press briefing, MAC Vice Chairman David Wei-Feng Huang states that the Republic of China is an independent sovereign country, and any change to the status quo requires the consent of the 23 million people of Taiwan. This is the greatest consensus within the country. The government of China has continued to increase its deployment of ballistic missiles, and has repeatedly resorted to verbal threats to intimidate the Taiwanese people. It even enacted the so-called "anti-separation law" on March 14, 2005 in an attempt to legalize the use of non-peaceful means against Taiwan. China's action is the main cause to the change in cross-strait status quo. The Taiwanese people have the right to determine the direction of Taiwan's future. The Chinese authorities do not fully understand the democratic operations in Taiwan, and their interpretation of "ceasing the function of the NUC" is also completely incorrect.

March 3, 2006
Li Chensheng and 12 other Fujian province representatives at the National People's Congress (NPC) submit to the NPC a proposal on the trial establishment of a cross-strait cooperation triangular zone between southern Fujian, Kinmen, and Taiwan to accelerate cross-strait economic development.

March 3, 2006
During the Fourth Session of the Tenth National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), CPPCC National Committee Chairman Jia Qinglin reports that China will never waver in its determination to achieve the basic course of "peaceful unification under the one party, two systems" formula and carry out the eight-point proposal on promoting the peaceful unification of the motherland based on the current development of cross-strait relations. China will thoroughly carry out comrade Hu Jintao's four-point proposal on developing cross-strait relations under the current trend, continue with the utmost sincerity and effort to uphold and promote peaceful and stable development of cross-strait relations, and strive for peaceful unification. At the same time, China will not tolerate "Taiwan independence" under any circumstances, and it will firmly oppose and block separatist "Taiwan independence" forces and their activities.

March 3, 2006
At the opening of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing states that the Taiwanese authorities' action to cease function of the National Unification Council and its guidelines is a risky step. China firmly opposes Chen Shui-bian's actions of threatening the grand endeavor of national unification and engaging in separatist Taiwan independence behavior in defiance of world opinion, and it will remain on high alert to these matters. The Chinese people must unwaveringly uphold the sovereignty and territorial integrity of China and cannot allow any person to separate Taiwan from the motherland by any means.

March 4, 2006
While attending the Joint Conference of members of the Revolutionary Committee of Chinese Kuomintang, China's Taiwan Democratic Self-Government League, and Taiwan Solidarity Union during the Fourth Session of the Tenth National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), CPPCC National Committee Chairman Jia Qinglin states that CPC General Secretary Hu Jintao noted that, "Although the two sides of the Taiwan Strait have not been unified since 1949, the fact remains unchanged that the mainland and Taiwan are both part of one China. This is the status quo of cross-strait relations." He added that, "As long as the one China principle and '1992 consensus' are acknowledged, China is willing to hold talks on the development of cross-strait and promotion of peaceful unification with any person and any political party, regardless of what they have said or done in the past." The CPPCC should use conditions to expand contacts with people in Taiwan, including hard-line pan-green members.

March 4, 2006
During the Fourth Session of the Tenth National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), National People's Congress (NPC), Spokesperson Jiang Enzhu states that China will continue to make every effort to uphold and promote peaceful and stable development of cross-strait relations and strive for the prospect of peaceful unification. No one will ever be allowed to separate Taiwan from China. The attempts of the "Taiwan independence" secessionist forces to separate Taiwan from China under any name and by any means will never succeed. "Taiwanese authorities' action to cease the function of the National Unification Council and application of the National Unification Guidelines has been met with strong opposition both within and outside of Taiwan. It is a dangerous move that overthrows Chen Shui-bian's "four no's plus one" pledge and a dangerous step toward "Taiwan independence." It constitutes a serious provocation of the universally accepted "one-China" principle and the peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.

March 5, 2006
The Directorate General of Budget, Accounting and Statistics, Executive Yuan, releases the latest statistics on cross-strait trade. Last year, trade between Taiwan and China (excluding Hong Kong) amounted to US$71.7 billion. The total included US$51.8 billion in exports from Taiwan to China, and US$19.9 billion in imports from China to Taiwan, netting Taiwan a favorable trade balance of US$31.9 billion, an increase of US$3.5 billion from 2004.

March 5, 2006
In a discussion with a group of representatives of the People's Liberation Army, Central Military Commission Vice Chairman Guo Boxiong states that Chen Shui-bian's brazen move to cease function of the National Unification Council and application of the National Unification Guidelines despite strong opposition both within and outside of Taiwan is a serious step towards "de jure Taiwan independence" and a grave provocation of the universally accepted "one-China" principle. China will uphold and promote the peaceful and stable development of cross-strait relations with the utmost sincerity and effort and strive for the prospect of peaceful unification. However, China will never allow any body to separate Taiwan from the motherland under any name or by any means. The entire military will further increase its vigilance, thoroughly undergo training, and foster a fighting spirit in the ranks to comprehensively enhance China's combat strength and ensure the effective implementation of its mission. In times of the motherland's need, the armed forces will carry out its legal duty and firmly defend the security, unification, and integrity of territorial sovereignty.

March 5, 2006
In a government work report delivered at the Fourth Session of the 10th National People's Congress (NPC), Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao notes that popular sentiment is in favor of developing cross-strait relations towards peace, stability, and mutual beneficial. Any person who vainly tries to sabotage this popular trend is certain to fail. The ultimate goal of eventual unification of the motherland is the shared desire of all Chinese people and cannot be stopped.

March 5, 2006
In a press conference following Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao's government work report, Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing states that over 100 countries worldwide acknowledge that there is only one China. The status quo across the Taiwan Strait is that "Taiwan and the mainland are parts of one China."

March 5, 2006
Lieutenant General Li Zhengyuan, a military representative of China's National People's Congress (NPC), states that there is only one China, and Taiwan is an inseparable part of China's territory. Last year the NPC approved the anti-separation law to provide the details of regulations in legal form for resolving the Taiwan issue. All of China's actions will be carried out in accordance with the anti-separation law.

March 5, 2006
Secretary-general of the Chinese Olympic Committee Tu Mingde states that in full consideration of Taiwan compatriots, China will provide the opportunity for people from Taiwan to take part in the business opportunities and volunteer work related to the holding of the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing.

March 6, 2006
In a special report to the Legislative Yuan on the resolution to cease function of the National Unification Council (NUC) and cease application of the National Unification Guidelines (NUG), Premier Su Tseng-chang stresses that the NUC and the NUG are vestiges of the party-state era, during which the Kuomintang used its position as the party-led government and unilaterally determined that unification is the only outcome between Taiwan and China. This was a serious violation of the functions of a democracy and it undermined the fundamental value of sovereignty of the people. The purpose of ceasing the function of the NUC and the application of the NUG is to respect the will of the 23 million people of Taiwan, uphold the status quo of freedom, democracy, and peace in Taiwan, and protect the right of the Taiwanese people to freely choose their future.

March 6, 2006
In a hearing with lawmakers at the Legislative Yuan, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that Taiwan does not exclude conducting negotiations or contacting China regarding any issue. However, China's predetermined "one China" principle poses an obstacle to cross-strait interactions.

March 6, 2006
In an interview with Japan's Nihon Keizai Shimbun, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu notes that Taiwan is a sovereign and independent country whose sovereignty belongs to its 23 million people. Taiwan's future can only be decided by the people of Taiwan and not by China. This is Taiwan's definite and unquestionable position and it is also the people of Taiwan's greatest consensus.

March 6, 2006
The Institute for National Policy Research announces the results of its public opinion survey on the "First Anniversary of the Anti-separation Law." The survey shows that 87.1% of the public believes that Taiwan's future should be determined by the 23 million people of Taiwan.

March 6, 2006
In reference to the content pertaining to Taiwan in the draft outline of the 11th Five-year Plan for National Economic and Social Development, Minister of the State Development and Reform Commission Ma Kai notes that Taiwan is an inseparable part of the sacred territory of the People's Republic of China. This is an eternal truth to which every son and daughter of the Chinese people will hold firmly to the end and a fact generally acknowledged by the world. The infallibility of this truth is beyond doubt.

March 7, 2006
At a press conference during the Fourth Session of the 10th National People's Congress (NPC), Chinese Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing states that, China's sovereignty cannot be divided and the territorial integrity of China will not be destroyed. The leadership of Taiwan has provoked the "one China" principle and challenged an internationally accepted truth and human justice. Its vain attempts to separate Taiwan from China are naturally strongly opposed by compatriots on both sides of the Strait and condemned and scorned by the international community.

March 7, 2006
While attending a joint conference of the Taiwan Democratic Self-Government League and Taiwan Solidarity Union, China's Taiwan Affairs Office Deputy Director Wang Zaixi states that over the next two years, there will be many variables within Taiwan and the situation will be extremely complicated, which requires China look to the complexity, difficulty, and long-term nature of resolution of the Taiwan issue. The most pressing, practical, and important task at the current stage is to oppose and check "Taiwan independence." At the same time, China will place its hopes on the people of Taiwan, and make winning the hearts of the people of Taiwan its starting point and goal of its work on Taiwan.

March 7, 2006
Secretary of the State General Administration of Sports Liu Peng discloses that his administration and the Beijing Organizing Committee for the 2008 Olympic Games are looking into allowing the Olympic Torch to be brought to Taiwan. He notes that the route of the Olympic Torch has not been finalized and will ultimately need to be approved by the International Olympic Committee.

March 7, 2006
China's PLA Daily reports that Central Military Commission Vice Chairman Guo Boxiong and Defense Minister Cao Gangchuan noted in a summary statement from two separate group discussions that the most important and urgent task of China's military forces is to oppose and restraint Taiwan's de jure independence. All troops and officers must increase their vigilance, sense of duty and responsibility, and seize the opportunity to prepare for a military struggle.

March 8, 2006
The Executive Yuan passes an MAC proposal to designate March 14, the day that Beijing enacted its anti-separation law in 2005, as "Anti-Aggression Day".

March 8, 2006
Officials of the Bureau of Fair Trade for Imports and Exports under China's Ministry of Commerce state that China has noticed that following Taiwan's announcement in September 26, 2005 that special protection investigations would be launched against towel imports from China, the Taiwanese authorities again announced on March 1, 2006
that anti-dumping investigations would be carried out against towel imports from China. China believes that with the constant development of cross-strait economic and trade relations, it is normal to expect trade frictions to emerge. It is possible to resolve these frictions through negotiations.

March 8, 2006
The Straits Exchange Foundation announces the results of a public opinion survey showing that 33.1% of the public is in favor of Taiwan independence, a higher ratio than the 26.8% that supports maintaining the status quo.

March 8, 2006
While attending discussions by the Taiwanese delegation to the Fourth Session of the Tenth National People's Congress (NPC), Chairman Jia Qinglin of National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference calls for vigorous implementation of cross-strait cultural exchanges. He also calls for the development of dialogue and exchanges with Taiwanese parties, organizations and representatives that acknowledge the "1992 consensus" and oppose "Taiwan independence," in order to resume cross-strait dialogue and negotiations on the basis of the consensus.

March 9, 2006
While presiding over the "Third High-Level Conference on Prevention of Possible Avian Flu Invasion," President Chen Shui-bian states that the government should not only strengthen its efforts in information gathering and close monitoring of epidemics in China, but re-appeal to the international community to urge the Chinese government to make disease-related information fully transparent and readily available, in order to prevent epidemics from evolving into an human-to-human spread disaster of unprecedented scale. Taiwan should be more alert in its cross-border control, particularly in preventing the smuggling of birds from China, blocking China's fishing boats from entering Taiwan's territory, cracking down on human trafficking, and strengthening quarantine work for the "Mini-Three-Links" in Kinmen and Matsu. These efforts are the focus of Taiwan's current disease prevention work, and all relevant authorities should strictly adhere to their duties.

March 9, 2006
MAC spokesperson Johnnason Liu notes that a Joint Review Meeting convened by the Immigration Office of the National Police Agency, Ministry of the Interior has turned down an application requesting permission to film scenes at sites of the 228 Incident in Taiwan for the major motion picture "Cloud and Water Ballad" financed by China's Central Cinema Group. The application was turned down because the original setting of the incident no longer exists in Taiwan and the relevant scenes have already been shot in China.

March 9, 2006
It is discovered that the official WHO website has erroneously listed Taiwan as a part of China as an area affected by avian influenza. After a strong protest lodged by Taiwanese officials, the WHO updated its website information on March 13, 2006.

March 9, 2006
Chairman Wu Bangguo of the Standing Committee of China's National People's Congress (NPC) notes in a work report delivered at the Fourth Session of the Tenth NPC that the anti-separation law passed a year ago has played an important role and exerted a far-reaching impact in promoting the development of cross-strait relations, advancing the welfare of compatriots on both sides of the Taiwan Strait, stabilizing the situation in the strait, promoting peaceful unification across the strait, opposing and restraining "Taiwan independence" secessionists and their activities, and upholding the national sovereignty and territorial integrity of China.

March 9, 2006
China's Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Qin Gang states at a press briefing that Chen Shui-bian's forced resolution to cease function of the National Unification Council and application of the National Unification Guidelines have seriously provoked the internationally recognized "one China" principle and peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. It also represents a dangerous step on the road to "Taiwan independence." China has never wavered in its firm resolution to oppose the separatist "Taiwan independence" actions of the Taiwan authorities through the fabrication of "two Chinas" or "one China, one Taiwan" in the international community.

March 9, 2006
China's Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Qin Gang expresses shock over Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Aso's statement that Taiwan is a country and that Japan and Taiwan should maintain country-to-country relations. He strongly opposes ill-natured interference in China's internal affairs.

March 10, 2006
In an interview with Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, President Chen Shui-bian states that the unification of Germany completely adhered to the four principles of democracy, sovereignty, peace, and parity. Moreover, it was achieved in full respect of the free choice made by the German people on both sides instead of resorting to force or non-peaceful means. However, the current situation between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait is that China does not recognize or respect Taiwan and it does not accept Taiwan as a nation of independent sovereignty. China even considers Taiwan as its own province, which is a part of the People's Republic of China. China has stated that it "places hopes on the people in Taiwan," but in fact it does not respect Taiwan's 23 million people's right to self-determination. Furthermore, China has passed its "anti-separation law," which aims to annex and invade Taiwan through the adoption of military force or other non-peaceful means. Cross-strait differences and disputes can be resolved peacefully only through dialogue. Under the principles of sovereignty, democracy, peace, and parity, Taiwan is willing to engage in contact, dialogue, and negotiations with the Chinese government at any time and any where.

March 10, 2006
While attending the "Conference on Sustainable Economic Development in Taiwan" organized by the Government Information Office, Executive Yuan, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that the MAC will promptly propose a mechanism for proactive management and establish order in cross-strait economic and trade relations. It is hoped that under the current framework, cross-strait capital, personnel, and technical exchanges can be carried out with more order. With regards to direct cross-strait transportation links, the most important issue is to initiate negotiations. Without the resumption of negotiations, it will be difficult to for the direct transportation links to move forward.

March 10, 2006
The MAC issues a press release indicating that the controversial issue regarding the recent applications of China's film and television industry figures seeking entry into Taiwan, it is evident that the current laws and regulations are unable to fully meet the new exchange needs emerging from increasing cross-strait exchanges. Therefore, there is a need to review the relevant laws and regulations and adjust to new trends in cross-strait exchanges accordingly.

March 10, 2006
China's Taiwan Affairs Office Deputy Director Wang Zaixi states that contact with Taiwan's so-called "hard-line independence activists" is a reference to contacts and exchanges between civic organizations and individuals. It does not include Chinese officials.

March 10, 2006
The United Front Work Department of the CPC Central Committee, Taiwan Affairs Office, Ministry of Labor and Social Security, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Civil Affairs and Ministry of Public Security in China jointly issue a "Notification on Further Resolving Living Difficulties Faced by Some Taiwan Compatriot Residents."

March 10, 2006
Taiwan Affairs Office Deputy Director Zheng Lizhong states that "hard-line Taiwan independence activists" are also people of Taiwan. However, contacts and exchanges with them can only be between civic groups and individuals.

March 11, 2006
At a seminar on the "10th Anniversary of the Taiwan Strait Missile Crisis," MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu notes that although 10 years have passed since the 1996 missile crisis, the crisis in the Taiwan Strait has not disappeared. This is because China has continuously expanded its military force with increasingly clear intent of preparing to attack Taiwan. The situation in the Taiwan Strait remains complex, and regional peace is still under serious threat.

March 11, 2006
Over 300 followers of the Sanshan Guowang Temple in Changhua County board a Kinmen-based high-speed passenger ship at Taichung Harbor to travel to Guangdong via the "Mini-Three-Links" for religious activities. The voyage was the first "Mini-Three-Links" trip to depart from Taichung Harbor.

March 11, 2006
President Xiao Yang of China's Supreme People's Court (SPC) points out in an SPC work report at the Fourth Session of the 10th National People's Congress that over the past year, the SPC has accepted 17 civil law judgments rendered by the Taiwan courts.

March 12, 2006
While attending a seminar on "The One Year Anniversary of the Anti-separation Law: Looking Back and Ahead," MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that with regard to China's "anti-separation law" and recent aggressive manipulation of two-handed strategies against Taiwan, the government of Taiwan has upon complete evaluation, clearly proposed priority negotiation issues and invited Chinese officials to conduct negotiations. This is to show Taiwan's greatest goodwill and sincerity. Taiwan also hopes that the Chinese authorities can make corresponding adjustments and reforms, remove obstacles to positive cross-strait interaction, and welcome a new age of cross-strait reconciliation and coexistence.

March 12, 2006
In an interview with the Central News Agency, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu responds to China's announcement about "contacting hard-line pan-green." Chairman Wu expresses his willingness to accept an invitation to visit China under no preconditions and hopes that China can make a quick response. He believes that the "hard-line strategy" has two objectives: to internally divide the pan-green camp and to make a soft appeal to the international community. Offering insincere goodwill to Taiwan is the start of China's next wave of international propaganda.

March 13, 2006
In an interview with Washington Post's Northeast Asia Bureau Chief Anthony Faiola and Beijing Correspondent Edward Cody, President Chen Shui-bian states that it is very clear to both Taiwan and the United States that the so-called maintenance of the status quo is, of course, the maintenance of Taiwan's democracy, freedom, and human rights, as well as the maintenance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. Therefore, ceasing function of the National Unification Council (NUC) and application of the National Unification Guidelines (NUG) do not change the status quo. Various opinion polls have shown that the majority of people in Taiwan, over 80%, even as high as 85%, believe that the future of Taiwan should be freely decided by the people of Taiwan. The main reason that Taiwan decided to cease function of the NUC and application of the NUG is to return to the people of Taiwan their right to freely decide their own future.

March 13, 2006
In an interview with the Central News Agency, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu notes that if direct cross-strait cargo links are to be implemented in future, the government will arrange related safety measures in accordance with its August 15, 2003 assessment report on direct cross-strait cargo. However, the most important factor remains the need for cross-strait government negotiations to address safety concerns.

March 13, 2006
MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu notes that the trial implementation of RMB-NTD exchange services in Kinmen and Matsu has resulted in serious imbalances that are markedly at odds with the situation initially anticipated by the Central Bank. The two sides of the Taiwan Strait should sign a currency settlement accord and continue to monitor the trial program in Kinmen and Matsu as a reference in extending RMB currency exchange operations to the main island of Taiwan.

March 13, 2006
A political resolution approved by the Fourth Session of the Tenth National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) stresses firm opposition to and restraining of Taiwan independence secessionists and their activities, as well as China's firm will to safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity.

March 14, 2006
In response to the Chinese authorities' inappropriate announcements, the MAC issues a press release emphasizing that the Taiwanese government has decided to cease function of the National Unification Council (NUC) and cease application of the National Unification Guidelines (NUG) based on its firm adherence to the important principles of "safeguarding democracy" and "maintaining the status quo." These actions do not involve any changes to the status quo in the Taiwan Strait. The government not only respects the 23 million Taiwanese people's freewill to choose, but also insists that no country or party can obstruct the Taiwanese people's freewill to choose by setting preconditions or ultimate objectives. The Chinese authorities' malicious criticisms of President Chen only show a complete ignorance of the mainstream Taiwanese public opinion. The MAC appeals to the Chinese authorities to immediately terminate the application of the "anti-separation law," renounce the fictitious "one China" principle, and promptly implement political reforms.

March 14, 2006
Premier Su Tseng-chang states that promotion activities by Chinese entertainers can be treated as commercial activities, and that the government can study the possibility of relaxing related regulations. The MAC held an interagency conference to address the matter of easing restrictions on Chinese entertainers' visits to Taiwan. Government Information Office Minister Cheng Wen-tsan indicates that the rules can be relaxed accordingly to allow Chinese entertainers to visit Taiwan for activities that fall within a reasonable scope based on the needs of related programs or movie showings, with the aim of facilitating cross-strait exchanges.

March 14, 2006
At a National People's Congress press conference, Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao states that China has been consistent and clear in its firm adherence to the one China principle, which is to say there is only one China in the world and both sides of the Taiwan Strait are part of this one China. China's sovereignty and territorial integrity cannot be divided. The Taiwan authorities' decision to cease function of the National Unification Council and its guidelines is an open provocation to the "one China" principle, a serious harm to cross-strait peace and stability, and a highly risky, dangerous, and deceptive move. China is closely monitoring to see how the situation develops and is well-prepared for any possibilities.

March 14, 2006
At the closing of the National People's Congress, the statement that "Taiwan is a sacred territory indivisible from the People's Republic of China" is included in the guidelines for the 11th Five-year Development Plan.

March 14, 2006
China's Culture Minister Sun Jiazheng states that the authorities in Beijing have not set limits on cross-strait cultural exchanges and hope that these exchanges can become even richer and more colorful. He also notes that exchanges between culture and art groups in China and Taiwan, and especially those in Fujian with close contacts with their counterparts in Taiwan, will be allowed as long as proper negotiations are held between the two sides. China hopes that Taiwan can ease restrictions on cross-strait cultural exchanges to make them operate smoother.

March 15, 2006
In a meeting with Palau's House of Delegates Speaker Augustine Mesebeluu and Mrs. Mesebeluu, President Chen Shui-bian states that only the 23 million people of Taiwan have the ultimate right to decide Taiwan's future. Any changes to the status quo in Taiwan can only be made with the consent of the 23 million Taiwanese people through the democratic process of a referendum.

March 15, 2006
In a meeting with Gambian Foreign Affairs Minister Lamin Kabba Bajo, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu notes that Taiwan has the right to join the World Health Organization (WHO) and have access to professional medical and health information needed to protect the life and safety of its people. However, pressure from China has prevented Taiwan from joining the WHO. Moreover, even though Taiwan is an active and responsible member of the international community, it has encountered repeated suppression from the Chinese authorities that have prevented its accession to the U.N. This is extremely unfair to the 23 million people of Taiwan.

March 16, 2006
In a reception with a visiting group of Taiwan expatriates from Japan, President Chen Shui-bian states that U.S. President George Bush stated in a speech in Tokyo in November 2006 that over 80% of the people in Taiwan believe that the future of Taiwan should be decided by the 23 million people of Taiwan. The functions of the "National Unification Council" and the application of the "National Unification Guidelines" were ceased in order to return to the people of Taiwan their right to freely choose their future. This is a step towards consolidating and deepening democracy in Taiwan.

March 16, 2006
MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that any person from Taiwan that accepts citizenship status in China will lose their citizenship status in Taiwan immediately. The Statute Governing Relations between Peoples of the Taiwan Area and Mainland Area further stipulates that the "the responsibilities and obligations resulted from [their] status as the people of the Taiwan Area (such as military service and payment of taxes) are not excused or exempted."

March 16, 2006
The MAC issues a press release indicating that interview mechanisms for immigrants will be implemented more comprehensively after the establishment of the Immigration Office. At present, the government also has interview measures for foreign spouses. It will not lower the scope of administration specifically for Chinese spouses or shift to a sample-based inspection management system. At the same time, if more effective border controls are not adopted and post-entry sample inspection measures are followed, it will require a large commitment of human and material resources to carry out inspections. In the end, the operational costs may exceed the expected results.

March 16, 2006
The Coast Guard Administration seizes 58 Chinese residents posing as fishermen in an attempt to enter Taiwan illegally with forged Taiwanese passports.

March 17, 2006
In a meeting with members of the "Victims of Investment in China Association," President Chen Shui-bian states that "proactive liberalization with effective management" is essentially same as "proactive management with effective liberalization." This is the original meaning of the phrase. China is one market, but it is not Taiwan's only market, ultimate market, or entire market. The president reminds the guests again of the political and business risks in investing in China, and expresses the belief that the entire Taiwanese business community should pay close attention to these things.

March 17, 2006
The International Trade Commission, Ministry of Economic Affairs, decides to implement relief measures against towels imports from China and also investigate the damages to the domestic towel industry caused by dumping. It was found that imported towels from China have indeed caused market disorder and substantive damages to Taiwan's towel industry.

March 17, 2006
In response to an EU accusation of dumping of shoes from China, shoe manufacturers on the both sides of the Taiwan Strait submitted a counterplea. Seven China-based Taiwanese shoemakers established a federation to respond to the EU action. The Taiwan Footwear Manufacturers Association also took concrete actions in support of the counterplea.

March 18, 2006
While participating in the "318 March" to protect Taiwan from China's annexation, President Chen Shui-bian states that if Taiwan wants to be a regular democratic nation, it needs a referendum mechanism and its citizens must have the freedom to choose. Taiwan is a sovereign and independent country, and the sovereignty of Taiwan belongs to its 23 million citizens. Only the 32 million people of Taiwan have the right to determine the future of Taiwan. Taiwan's sovereignty is inseparable and cannot be shared with others. The future of Taiwan cannot be decided by the 1.3 billion people of China.

March 18, 2006
The MAC notes that the revised Statute Governing Relations between Peoples of the Taiwan Area and Mainland Area, promulgated by the government on March 1, 2004, clearly stipulates in Article 9-1 that any persons of the Taiwan area who have a household registration in the mainland area or hold a passport issued by the PRC shall be deprived of their status as a person of the Taiwan area and any rights derived thereof, and their household registration in the Taiwan area shall be annulled by the household registration authorities.

March 18, 2006
The Economic Daily News reports that the secretariat of the World Trade Organization has released its review report on China's trade policy. The report indicates that Taiwan had a US$58 billion trade surplus with China last year, making Taiwan the largest source of trade deficit for China.

March 20, 2006
While commenting on sections pertaining to China in the U.S. government's "National Security Strategy Report," Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Qin Gang states that the government of China has been consistent, clear, and unwavering in the direction of its policy for resolving the Taiwan issue. China is willing to seek a peaceful resolution to the Taiwan issue with the utmost sincerity and effort. However, it will never tolerate "Taiwan independence" and it will never allow any person to separate Taiwan from China by any means.

March 21, 2006
In a reception with Katsuya Okada, Japanese parliamentarian and former president of the Democratic Party of Japan, President Chen Shui-bian reiterates that any disputes over cross-strait issues must be resolved peacefully through dialogue, and not by resorting to force or any non-peaceful means. He also emphasizes that defending peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait is in the shared interests of Japan, the U.S., and Taiwan. Taiwan will continue to play the role of peacekeeper in the region.

March 21, 2006
China and Russia sign a joint declaration stating that the two sides will mutually support each other's policies and actions to uphold national sovereignty, unification, and territorial integrity. Russia will not establish official relations with Taiwan nor will it maintain official contacts with Taiwan. It will not accept the position of "two Chinas" or "one China and one Taiwan." It will oppose Taiwan's membership in the UN and other international organizations that only sovereign nations can join, and it will not sell weapons to Taiwan.

March 21, 2006
Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Qin Gang states that the Chinese government treats Taiwan's activities with foreign countries on the basis of the "one-China" principle. It holds no objection to Taiwan's civic exchanges with foreign countries, but it firmly opposes any secessionist move to create "Two Chinas" or "One China, One Taiwan" in the international arena.

March 22, 2006
In a meeting with American Institute in Taipei Director Stephen M. Young, Premier Su Tseng-chang emphasizes that the government takes an open attitude to cross-strait exchanges. The current problem is that China is unwilling to engage in negotiations with Taiwan, which creates difficulties in setting up many management principles in cross-strait exchanges and increases national security risks.

March 22, 2006
At a provisional press conference, the MAC and the Ministry of the Interior, Ministry of Transportation and Communications, Ministry of Economic Affairs, Council of Agriculture, Financial Supervisory Commission and other related authorities issue a joint statement on "Mechanisms for the 'Proactive Management and Effective Liberalization' of Cross-Strait Economic and Trade Relations," noting that a more comprehensive set of measures would be completed by the end of June.

March 22, 2006
China's Ministry of Commerce announces an initial ruling that Japan and Taiwan are dumping PBT resin and decides to start anti-dumping investigations.

March 23, 2006
At a press briefing, MAC Vice Chairman Johnnason Liu notes that the Chinese authorities have persistently stand by their "one China" principle as the framework for developing various cross-strait relations. It hopes to use this framework to politically, diplomatically, and economically isolate and annex Taiwan, and achieve the same ultimate objective as the anti-separation law enacted last year.

March 23, 2006
In the latest issue of his "President A-Bian E-Newsletter," President Chen Shui-bian makes a sincere appeal to the leadership of China to let the giant pandas remain in their natural habitat and grant them the same basic inalienable right of existence that is granted to people.

March 23, 2006
During an inspection tour of the Hsinchu Coastal Patrol Command at Nanliao Fishing Harbor, President Chen Shui-bian states that several of the major public security problems currently facing Taiwan are unavoidably connected to China, including the problems of drug and gun smuggling, human trafficking, telephone fraud, illegal immigration and the stowing of wanted criminals.

March 23, 2006
The State Council 2006 Work Outline is published on the administrative affairs section of the Chinese Government website. The outline states that China will firmly adhere to the basic policy position of "peaceful unification under the one country, two systems" formula in the current stage development of cross-strait relations; promote the peaceful unification of the motherland under the eight-point proposal, and carry through with Chairman Hu Jintao's four-point proposal on developing cross-strait relations under new trends. China will firmly oppose and restrain activities of "Taiwan independence" separatist forces related to constitutional reform and pursuit of "de jure Taiwan independence." China will openly unify with Taiwanese compatriots, expand cross-strait economic, cultural, and personnel exchanges; and promote progress in establishing comprehensive, direct and two-way "three links." China will support economic development on the west shore of the Taiwan Strait and other areas with concentrations of Taiwan investment; and promote cross-strait economic and technology exchanges and cooperation. China will enhance dialogue and exchanges with parties, organizations and individuals in Taiwan that oppose "Taiwan independence" and advocate the development of cross-strait relations. It will strive, on the basis of the one China principle to resume cross-strait dialogue and negotiations. It will uphold peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.

March 24, 2006
MAC Vice Chairman Johnnason Liu notes that from related stipulations in China's constitution, the anti-separation law enacted last year, and this year's 11th Five-year Plan, that the "mainland area" does not leave room for the existence of the Republic of China.

March 24, 2006
Premier Su Tseng-chang states that pandas are an internationally protected species and the decision on whether or not to allow for their importation to Taiwan must be handled in accordance with Taiwan's Wild Animal Protection Act, examined by the Cabinet-level Council of Agriculture, and treated in accordance with the Washington Accord.

March 26, 2006
At a media reception, Premier Su Tseng-chang states that cross-strait interactions should adopt the principles of peace, parity, and mutual benefit. These are points that will never be compromised. Under this framework, the two major principles of cross-strait policy are "Taiwan's objectivity" and "proactive policies."

March 27, 2006
At a council meeting, MAC issues a report on the Chinese authorities' plan to create a "cross-strait economic zone" and its impact on future cross-strait relations. The concept of an economic zone is in line with the Chinese authorities' consistent thinking in its work against Taiwan. It strengthens China's strategy and tactic of sucking away economic resources from Taiwan, but its ultimate objective is to "internalize and localize cross-strait exchanges." The significance of China's political united front tactics far exceeds the benefits of economic exchanges.

March 27, 2006
The MAC convenes a council meeting to discuss the issue of whether to include local governments among the responsible agencies in regulations relating to citizens or organizations of Taiwan holding office positions in China or membership affairs. The MAC reports that it is still appropriate for the central authority to be in charge of overall planning and handling of issues pertaining to these matters. The Council has also proceeded to establish models for handling these matters to serve as references for local governments in the future. Moreover, in order to avoid ambiguity and contention over whether the responsible authority referred to in Article 46 of the enforcement rules extends to local governments, the MAC will promptly revise the rules in accordance with legal procedures to clearly stipulate the meaning of responsible authority in the related regulations.

March 28, 2006
MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu recommends and introduces a series of books titled the "Practical Guide for Taiwan Investors." The series include four volumes on investment, business management, financial and tax affairs, and financial and economic laws and regulations in China to assist Taiwanese businesses with operations in China.

March 28, 2006
At the conclusion of its third meeting, the Giant Panda Examination Committee under the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan determines that under Paragraph 2 of Article 26 of the Enforcement Rules of the Wildlife Conservation Law, a document cannot be issued to applicants to use for the application of an export permit from China at the present time.

March 29, 2006
At a press briefing, the MAC reiterates that any visit by a political party or private group to China for exchanges is allowed as long as they are conducted legally. However, if these exchanges involve negotiations with the Chinese authorities on issues pertaining to government authority or the rights and obligations of the people of Taiwan, they will have no legal force without the legal approval and authorization of the government. MAC appeals again to all parties to jointly uphold Taiwan's democratic rule of law against the Chinese authorities' malicious actions.

March 29, 2006
Spokesman Li Weiyi of the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council states at a press conference the hope that cross-strait trade organizations can contact each other and exchange views soon to resolve the issue of double taxation. He urges the Taiwanese authorities to promptly remove unreasonable obstacles to cross-strait exchanges. He also notes that, with regard to the recent announcement by the Taiwan authorities that it would introduce a set of mechanisms of the "proactive management and effective liberalization" of cross-strait economic and trade, any restriction on or interference in cross-strait economic cooperation that runs against objective economic laws or has political motives will be unpopular and ultimately impair Taiwan's economy and the immediate interests of the Taiwanese people.

March 30, 2006
In a reception with a delegation of the French National Assembly, including Deputies Michel Hunault, Loic Bouvard, and Francois Loncle, President Chen Shui-bian notes that during the Tiananmen Incident in 1989, China suppressed innocent civilians and youth through force, prompting an EU resolution to ban the sale of arms to China. This ban remains enforced, mainly because China has failed to improve its human rights record, continued to plan the use force in resolving cross-strait disputes, and become the world's third-largest exporter of weapons of mass destruction. The president believes that the EU should continue to enforce the arms ban until these issues have been satisfactorily resolved. Otherwise, it would be the equivalent of encouraging a non-democratic China to use force against a democratic Taiwan, while endangering peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region at the same time.

March 30, 2006
While attending a reception for the inauguration of the Taiwan International Health Action Task Force, President Chen Shui-bian states that Taiwan is only an ocean away from China, a country that has no qualms about concealing disease outbreaks. Considering the high volume of human and cargo movement across the Taiwan Strait, and the international community's grave concerns regarding the threat of avian flu and its all-out effort to address the vulnerability in the global disease prevention network, if Taiwan continues to be excluded from this international health chain, the health security of its people will be gravely threatened when the avian flu breaks out in China. This scenario is also likely to have direct impact on other nations. Therefore, the president urges the international community to support Taiwan's bid to participate in the World Health Organization and help ensure the health rights of the 23 million people of Taiwan. Succumbing to China's irrational political interference will be the cause of Taiwan's, or even the world's regrettable loss.

March 30, 2006
China's Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Qin Gang stresses that two basic conditions are necessary to the improvement of relations between China and the Vatican. First, the Vatican must sever its diplomatic relations with Taiwan; and second, it must promise not to interfere in China's internal affairs, including any intervention on the pretext of religious activities.

March 31, 2006
In a meeting with Parliamentarian Kamei Hisaoki, deputy chief of the Taiwan-friendly caucus in the Lower House of the Japanese Diet, President Chen Shui-bian states that the totalitarian regime of the Chinese Communist Party's one-party dictatorship is the greatest burn wound and discredit to the universal values of democracy, freedom, human rights, and peace. It has also created potential concerns for security, peace, and stability in the Asia-Pacific region. He further stresses that maintaining the cross-strait status quo means defending Taiwan's democracy, liberty, human right conditions, and especially the current status of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. The Chinese military expansion and deployment of missiles against Taiwan have endangered and harmed this status quo, and the threat it poses to Taiwan could also affect Japan and the United Sates.

March 31, 2006
During a policy interpellation at the Legislative Yuan, Premier Su Tseng-chang states his approval of signing a mutual accord between the police authorities on both sides of the Taiwan Strait in order to facilitate a good management channel for joint crime fighting and achieve public security objectives.

March 31, 2006
Vice Chairman Xu Jialu of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress states that China's promotion of the simplified Chinese script does not mean that the traditional script will be eliminated. It only means that restrictions will be placed on the situations where the usage of the traditional script is acceptable.

April 3, 2006
While attending the opening ceremony for the 2006 International Hospital Federation Asian Pacific Regional Conference, President Chen Shui-bian emphasizes that China has been repeatedly blocking Taiwan's participation in the World Health Organization and irrationally obstructing Taiwan's cooperation with other countries on health matters, including combating the avian flu. These behaviors have not only caused great losses to the people of Taiwan, but also shown how serious China has undermined the universal value that "healthcare shall transcend national borders."

April 3, 2006
President Chen Shui-bian and KMT Chairman Ma Ying-jeou meet to exchange views on arms procurement, cross-strait relations, the 1992 Hong Kong Talks, ceasing of the National Unification Council and its guidelines, and other issues. President Chen notes that the main spirit and core value of the "Four No's Plus One" pledge is to "maintain the status quo," in order to preserve Taiwan's democracy, the liberties and human rights of the people, and cross-strait peace and stability. With regard to the 1992 Consensus, he notes that China has not accepted the formulation of "One China with respective interpretations by the two sides," but rather insists that the consensus is based on the "one China" principle, a trap that Taiwan cannot fall into. The president also stresses that a true democracy is when only the 23 million people of Taiwan have the right to determine the direction of cross-strait relations, and the result of the people's free choice is honored, without preconditions or predetermined conclusions. The purpose of the entire process is to advance democracy in Taiwan.

April 4, 2006
The Ministry of Transportation and Communications states that the Kinmen County Government has established the passenger wharf, facilities, and passenger customs building at the Shueitou Port after a period of planning and construction. The port officially began operations on November 7, 2005. The Executive Yuan has agreed to designate Shueitou as an offshore island passenger transportation port.

April 4, 2006
China News Service reports that China, Hong Kong and Taiwan customs authorities joined hands to carry out a bust netting NT$32 million in illegal drugs.

April 4, 2006
In response to Australia's decision to sell uranium to Taiwan, China's Foreign Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Liu Jianchao states that the government of China and the International Atomic Agency have always supervised related activities of Taiwan on a non-governmental basis to ensure that these activities are peaceful in nature.

April 6, 2006
Taiwan job search website 1111 releases the results of a job survey of students of major higher education institutions in Shanghai, Zhejiang and, Jiangsu, showing that nearly 90% respondents want to find work or undergo professional training in Taiwan.

April 7, 2006
In a meeting with U.S. experts on cross-strait relations, President Chen Shui-bian states that Taiwan's core value is consolidating and deepening of democracy. Only the 23 million citizens in Taiwan have the right to decide Taiwan's future, the maintenance or change of the status quo, and constitutional reform. He says that these decisions will be decided through the democratic process of referendum.

April 7, 2006
At a press briefing, MAC Vice Chairman Johnnason Liu states that the Taiwanese government has already allowed Category-1 Chinese tourists to visit Taiwan. However, issues such as the issuance of visas and travel documents have to be resolved through cross-strait negotiations. China has always conducted negotiations first before allowing its people to travel to other countries. However, it has delayed allowing its people to visit Taiwan for sightseeing and has even restricted them through regulating administrative orders. He also notes that China's implementation of zero-tariff measures on 15 Taiwanese fruits has not resulted in significant benefits to Taiwanese farmers. Taiwan hopes that China will improve its "internal mechanism" and revert to the "regular mechanism" to manage cross-strait agricultural exchanges, so that we can expect to achieve better results under the "market mechanism."

April 8, 2006
The 10th China Xiamen Machinery & Electronics Exhibition (CXMEE) opens at the Xiamen International Conference & Exhibition Center. Taiwan exhibitors account for 260 of the total 1,612 booths at the exhibition. Both figures are historic highs for the CXMEE.

April 8, 2006
The Taiwan Fruit Marketing and Distribution Center officially opens in the Huli District of Xiamen City. Taiwan Affairs Office Deputy Director Zheng Lizhong attends the inauguration ceremony. He expresses hope that the center will become the largest site in China for the sale and distribution of Taiwanese fruit.

April 8, 2006
At the opening ceremony of "China, Our Common Homeland: A Photographic Exhibition on the Taiwan Issue" in Macao, Assistant Director of the State Council's Taiwan Affairs Office Zhang Mingqing states that opposing and blocking Chen Shui-bian's passage of "constitutional reform" to achieve "de jure Taiwan independence" is currently the most important and urgent mission. China must work hard to achieve the guiding principle of placing hope in the people of Taiwan, and must never allow "Taiwan independence" secessionist forces to separate Taiwan from the motherland under any name or by any means.

April 10, 2006
In a meeting with a delegation of the European Parliament-Taiwan Friendship Group led by group Vice Chairman Jose Javier Pomes Ruiz, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu indicates that China only acknowledges the "one China" principle and has not accepted "respective interpretations [of one China] by the two sides" in any way. China has been clear in its position that Taiwan is a sacred and inseparable part of the PRC, as witnessed in the content of the "anti-separation law" drafted by China and in the "Draft Proposals for the 11th Five-Year Plan for National Economic and Social Development," approved by the National People's Congress in March this year.

April 10, 2006
In a meeting with a delegation of U.S. experts on cross-strait relations, led by American Institute in Taiwan Director Natale H. Bellocchi, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that China's stubborn insistence on the drafting and passage of the "anti-separation law" completely ignores the status quo that the ROC and PRC are both not under the jurisdiction of each other. Additionally, China's continued military expansion and suppression of Taiwan's diplomatic space are clear evidences that Beijing is changing the status quo. He therefore appeals for U.S. support of Taiwan to prevent changes to the status quo in the Taiwan Strait.

April 10, 2006
In a meeting with the U.S. National Committee on American Foreign Policy delegation headed by its president George Schwab, State Councilor Tang Jiaxuan expresses that a proper resolution of the Taiwan issue is the key to the stable development of China-U.S. relations. The U.S. should "see clearly" the danger and harm of "de jure Taiwan independence" activities led by Chen Shui-bian. He urges the U.S. to clearly oppose and firmly discourage "de jure Taiwan independence" and other secessionist activities in order to maintain peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and in the Asian-Pacific region, and uphold the shared interests of China and the U.S.

April 10, 2006
In a meeting with Sally Aw Sian, honorary leader of Tsung Tsin Association of Hong Kong in Beijing, Chairman Jia Qinglin of the Chinese People's Political and Consultative Conference states that China will continue to develop cross-strait relations while abiding to the basic principles of "peaceful reunification" and "one country, two systems," as well as the eight-point proposal on the settlement of the Taiwan question. China will also implement the four-point proposal on the development of cross-strait relations proposed by President Hu Jintao and continue with the utmost sincerity and effort to maintain and promote the peaceful and stable development of cross-strait relations and pursue peaceful unification. China will never tolerate "Taiwan independence" and it resolutely opposes "Taiwan independence" secessionist forces to separate Taiwan from the motherland.

April 11, 2006
In a meeting with European Parliament-Taiwan Friendship Group led by group Vice Chairman Jose Javier Pomes Ruiz, President Chen Shui-bian emphasizes that no one can force the Taiwanese people to accept unification as the ultimate goal. However, no options regarding future cross-strait development would be excluded under the condition that China gives up its authoritarian rule and that any decision is consented to by all of citizens of Taiwan.

April 11, 2006
In a meeting with U.S. Congressman John Linder, President Chen Shui-bian stresses that the greatest differences between Taiwan and China are differences in lifestyles and systems. If China can abandon its one-party regime, he trusts that it is not entirely unlikely that both sides can further exchange views on and discuss political and economic topics of mutual interest.

April 11, 2006
At its 52nd meeting, the International Trade Commission under the Ministry of Economic Affairs reaches a resolution on proposing temporary relief measure to raise the tariff on towel products imported from China. It is a response to an application submitted by the Yunlin Towel Industrial Technology and Development Association.

April 11, 2006
In an interview, Deputy Director Tang Wei of the Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macao Affairs Department of the Chinese Ministry of Commerce indicates that as of the end of 2005, over 5,000 Taiwan agricultural enterprises had invested a total of nearly US$4 billion in China.

April 12, 2006
In a meeting with a delegation of Australian congressmen, President Chen Shui-bian states that contrary to the opposition parties' goal of ultimate unification with China, Taiwan's ruling party insists on the principle of democratic self-determination. The spirit of sovereignty of the people is to respect the free will of the 23 million people of Taiwan. With regards to the future of Taiwan and cross-strait relations, any outcome is possible as long as it has the approval of the people of Taiwan. The most important point is that we cannot pre-establish positions or conclusions, and we cannot make ultimate unification the only choice and conclusion of the 23 million people of Taiwan.

April 12, 2006
In a reception with Belgian parliamentarians Senator Alain Destexhe and Representative Stef Goris, President Chen Shui-bian states that the government and people of Taiwan under his leadership are not opposed to the people of China, but they are firmly opposed to China's single-party authoritarian rule. The greatest differences between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait are differences of lifestyles and systems. Therefore, the people of Taiwan are well aware of the many difficulties they face, yet they remain brave and resolute on the road to democracy, peace and human rights.

April 12, 2006
In response to the Chinese government's denial of an application by Taiwan media to cover KMT Honorary Chairman Lien Chan's visit to China, the Association of Taiwan Journalists issues a statement sternly condemning China for its long-term undemocratic behavior of restricting the freedom of news reporting.

April 12, 2006
Premier Su Chen-chang states at an Executive Yuan meeting that with regard to cross-strait cargo charter flights and institutionalized holiday or weekend charter flights, Taiwan can maintain an open approach and not exclude any possibilities as long as bilateral negotiations are conducted.

April 12, 2006
The information office of China's Ministry of Agriculture holds a press conference to announce that the Association of Agricultural Exchange for Both Sides of the Straits and Taiwan Farmers' Association have established the first Taiwan agricultural products exhibition area at the China (Shouguang) International Vegetable Sci-Tech Fair.

April 12, 2006
During a press interview, Taiwan Affairs Office Director Chen Yunlin says that the "Cross-Strait Economic Forum" will be held in Beijing on April 14 and 15, 2006. The forum will be attended by around 500 people, including officials of the central government and Beijing City Government; business leaders of the two sides; representatives of commercial, agricultural, travel, ocean shipping, air transport, finance and other sectors; experts and scholars, and heads of the Taiwanese Businessmen's Associations in China.

April 13, 2006
In a meeting with U.S. Congressman John Linder, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that the government hopes to improve cross-strait relations through policies to relax restrictions on Chinese tourists visiting Taiwan and cross-strait cargo and passenger charter flights, thereby upholding stability in the Taiwan Strait and Asia Pacific region.

April 13, 2006
The China Times reports that President Chen Shui-bian disclosed that the International Crisis Group will change Taiwan's membership name and title in order to invite China to join the group and enable the group to set up an office in Beijing.

April 14, 2006
In a meeting with Tokyo Governor Ishihara Shintaro, President Chen Shui-bian notes that KMT Chairman Ma Ying-jeou specifically noted that "one China" referred to by Beijing is the People's Republic of China (PRC). For half a century, the PRC has never acknowledged the existence of the Republic of China (ROC). It has not acknowledged the ROC in the PRC constitution and believes that the ROC ceased in 1949. The keynote of China's diplomacy towards Taiwan at present is the "three outs": to dig out, squeeze out, and block out Taiwan's diplomatic allies and role on the international stage.

April 14, 2006
In a meeting with a delegation of the National Committee on American Foreign Policy, President Chen Shui-bian states that the so-called "Chinese Nationalist Party and Communist Party of China Meeting" and "Second Lien Chan - Hu Jintao Meeting" were intentionally arranged to precede the meeting between Hu and U.S. President George W. Bush. The Chinese leaders are attempting obscure international perceptions and fabricate a false sense of peace in order to allay pressure from the U.S. for China to negotiate with the democratically elected government of Taiwan. All negotiations are just false fronts so long as China refuses to give up its single party dictatorship, totalitarian rule and plans to attack Taiwan with force, and refuses to implement a truly democratic and free system.

April 14, 2006
With regard to the Cross-Straits Economic and Trade Forum held by the Communist Party of China (CPC) and the Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT), the MAC issues a three-point official statement emphasizing the status of both sides of the Taiwan Strait. The government of Taiwan has always insisted that the Republic of China is a sovereign independent country whose sovereignty lies with the 23 million people of Taiwan; the People's Republic of China also is a sovereign independent country; and neither side is under the jurisdiction of each other. This is the true status quo. The government of Taiwan is willing to conduct pragmatic negotiations with China on the issues of: visits to Taiwan by Chinese tourists, direct cross-strait charter passenger and cargo flights, Taiwanese agricultural exports to China, repatriation of criminals and perpetrators of economic crimes and protection of Taiwanese investments and intellectual property rights in China. The law requires that the government conduct these negotiations because these matters involve government authority. China should swiftly and actively conduct dialogue and negotiation with the government of Taiwan, to bring about a beginning of positive contacts and interactions across the Taiwan Strait.

April 14, 2006
The first economic conference between the CPC and the KMT is held in Beijing, with over 50 Taiwanese enterprises attending. MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that the government will monitor the conference but is not concerned about it. He believes that Taiwanese enterprises can play a positive role in cross-strait interactions.

April 14, 2006
The MAC issues the results of a public opinion survey indicating that 76.6% of the public in Taiwan agrees that, "Taiwan is a sovereign and independent country." As much as 84.3% of the public also supports the view that the future of Taiwan should "be determined by the people of Taiwan."

April 14, 2006
In response to the reports that high-precision machineries exported by Taiwan to China could be used for military purposes, the Bureau of Foreign Trade, Ministry of Economic Affairs states that relevant agencies are inspecting information on specific export products and cases that could be involved. The Bureau is inspecting all machine centers, metal cutting lathes, and turning centers exported to China since 2005. Within the next several days it will further verify whether or not these machines have been illegally used based on post-export control data provided by exporters of high-precision machineries.

April 14, 2006
The International Trade Commission, Ministry of Economic Affairs reaches a conclusion, which determined that a quantity-based tariff will replace the current ad valorem tariff on towel products imported from China. The tariff rate will be set at NT$42 per kilo (about 60% tariff rate) in the first year, with the rate to be steadily lowered in subsequent years.

April 15, 2006
While hosting the commissioning ceremony for the Air Force's Hawkeye airborne early warning aircraft, President Chen Shui-bian states that China has never renounced its military threats and intimidation against Taiwan. Moreover, China has sought to create conditions supportive of its political, military and diplomatic clash with Taiwan in recent years through its so-called "three warfares" (legal, media, and psychological). China's massive military build-up has far exceeded the basic needs of national defense, and it has also been a source of grave concern for the U.S., Japan, and other neighboring countries. As an immediate target under Chinese military threat and a member among the ranks of the world's free democracies, Taiwan not only bears the full responsibility for its self-defense, but will also contribute fully to regional security, stability and peace.

April 15, 2006
In her a speech delivered at the opening ceremony of the 19th Annual Meeting of Local 3480 Rotary International regarding the KMT and the CPC's trade and economic forum, Vice President Annette Lu states that China's economic strategy towards Taiwan is to use businesses to hedge in the government, use people to compel officials, and use economic integration to promote political integration. She also expresses hope that the entire population of Taiwan can, on the basis of Taiwanese heart and sentiments, establish a footing in Taiwan and adopt an international view. Taiwan must demand the normalizations of cross-strait relations with the Chinese government. However, these relations must be based on mutual parity and be carried out in accordance with the democratic processes of the people of Taiwan. They must also be advanced peacefully. This peace must ensure that the autonomous independence of Taiwan is not sacrificed by embracing and surrendering to China.

April 15, 2006
In response to seven measures announced by China's Taiwan Affairs Office on the sale of agricultural products from Taiwan, the Council of Agriculture states that it welcomes measures that are beneficial to the Taiwanese farmers as long as they do not violate related regulations or threaten Taiwan's national security. However, if China is sincere in assisting the Taiwanese farmers, it should be more than willing to help resolve the matters of falsely labeled Chinese agricultural products as Taiwan imports, the registration of Taiwan agricultural production area names as trademarks, and the infringement on agricultural-related intellectual property rights, such stealing plant species and farming technology.

April 15, 2006
Li Bingcai, deputy director of the Taiwan Work Office of the CPC Central Committee, announces the "Joint Proposals," which included seven aspects. The proposals include building consensus on the promotion of full-scale cross-strait economic exchanges, the establishment of a mechanism for cross-strait economic exchanges, the realization of full, direct and two-way direct cross-strait "three links," the strengthening of cross-strait agricultural cooperation and the resolution of issues concerning the marketing of Taiwan agricultural goods in China, the promotion of visits to Taiwan by Chinese tourists, and other matters concerning cross-strait economic and trade cooperation. He says that these proposals have major significance for upholding the rights, interests and welfare of compatriots on both sides of the strait, improving and developing cross-strait relations, and realizing mutual benefit and co-prosperity on both sides of the strait.

April 15, 2006
Director Chen Yunlin of Taiwan Affairs Office announces that China will adopt 15 policy measures to promote cross-strait exchanges and cooperation and grant favor to Taiwanese compatriots.
The State Council approves the following three measures:

1. Four types of Taiwanese-grown fruits were added to the current list of 18 types permitted for import to China from May 1 this year, bringing the total to 22 permitted fruit types. The four types of fruits to be included are: oranges, dragon fruit (pitaya), and honeydew melon.
2. Eleven types of major vegetable grown in Taiwan are included in China's inspection and quarantine system, and the tariff rate on these vegetables is reduced to zero. The affected vegetables are: cabbage, cauliflower, loofahs, Chinese mustard, pak choi (Chinese cabbage), balsam pear, onions, carrots, lettuce, taro, and wasabi.
3. The tariff on certain fresh, chilled and frozen seafood products from Taiwan will be reduced to zero and inspection and quarantine procedures will be streamlined.

Relevant units under the State Council approve the following 12 policy measures:

1. Cross-strait agricultural cooperation pilot zones will be set up in Foshan City and Zhanjiang City in Guangdong Province and in Yulin City in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. Moreover, the Ministry of Agriculture and Taiwan Affairs Office under the State Council have approved the establishment of two business incubation parks for Taiwanese farmers in Zhangpu City in Fujian Province and Qixia City in Shandong Province.
2. China's federation of supply and marketing cooperatives will help arrange for Chinese farm products dealers to visit Taiwan for group procurements.
3. A special center will be set up in Xiamen City, Fujian Province to market Taiwanese fruit. The center will waive cold storage fees and provide one year of free rent for fruit sellers.
4. China will open a transportation "green corridor" in which road and bridge tolls in some areas will be reduced or waived for the shipment of Taiwan agricultural products to China.
5. China officially recognizes higher education diplomas issued by departments under Taiwan's Ministry of Education.
6. China will issue the "Measures for the Management of Mainland Residents to Visit the Taiwan Area" on April 16. The measures stipulate that Chinese residents traveling to Taiwan shall join tour groups organized by designated Chinese tour agencies. Tour agencies receiving Chinese tour groups in Taiwan must be confirmed by the relevant Chinese government agencies units along with the China National Tourism Administration.
7. China adds Shenyang, Dalian, and Chengdu to the cities allowed to issue landing visas for Taiwan visitors to China. It will also continue to add new points for handling visa procedures for Taiwanese compatriots that have not completed entry procedures before their arrival in China.
8. China will allow Taiwanese compatriots to participate in qualification examinations for customs agents. Qualified persons signing up for land or sea customs duty can apply for a customs official qualification certificate.
9. China will continue to establish special clinics in cities with high concentration of Taiwanese people, such as Guangdong, Fujian, and Jiangsu provinces and Shanghai, to provide medical services for Taiwanese compatriots. Doctors working in these clinics may come either from China or Taiwan, but they must acquire official approval from relevant Chinese authorities.
10. Hospitals and clinics in China will issue necessary documents to Taiwanese visitors for the reporting of medical expenditures for insurance compensation upon their return home.
11. China will continue to welcome and encourage Taiwanese medical institutions to set up joint venture hospitals with Chinese partners.
12. Taiwanese compatriots will be allowed to be licensed to practice medicine on a short-term basis in China after they pass official examinations.

April 15, 2006
Deputy Director Sun Yafu of Taiwan Affairs Office states that "negotiations" must be held between civic organizations of the travel industry on both sides of the strait before Chinese residents are allowed to visit Taiwan. Negotiations between the two sides are also needed in order to realize the three direct cross-strait links.

April 16, 2006
In response to the "four proposals" raised today by the Chinese leader, the MAC issues a press release solemnly indicating that the Chinese authorities again have clearly shown that they have not abandoned the existing rigid pattern and ideology of "one China." In 1995, the Chinese authorities found pretext to unilaterally suspend institutionalized cross-strait negotiations, and again attempted to politically intimidate Taiwan through its "one China" principle. Since 2000, China has taken the term "1992 Consensus" fabricated by the KMT, to conceal its ill intentions of "one China." In fact, the Chinese authorities have always intentionally ignored the reality of the existence of the Republic of China and sought to restrict and reduce Taiwanese people's freedom to determine their own future. This is the source that hinders cross-strait interactions.

April 16, 2006
China's National Tourism Administration (CNTA), Ministry of Public Security, and Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council jointly issue the Procedures for the Management of Mainland Residents Traveling to the Taiwan Region. The 17-article regulation stipulates that Chinese visitors would be allowed to tour Taiwan in groups organized by designated Chinese travel agencies and must complete the entire trip as part of a group. The CNTA and relevant departments will designate qualified travel agencies from those that have already been licensed to provide overseas travel services. Taiwanese travel agencies receiving Chinese tourists should also be confirmed by the CNTA and other relevant departments in China.

April 17, 2006
In an interview with Japan's Sankei Shimbun, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that civic organizations of the tourism industry will be entrusted to conduct negotiations related to allowing Chinese tourists to visit Taiwan, in a model similar to the one that was adopted for direct cross-strait charter flight during the Lunar New Year holiday. Authorities on both sides will also be represented at the negotiating table. Chairman Wu reiterates that no topics will be excluded from cross-strait negotiations so long as they are conducted on the basis of parity and reciprocity.

April 17, 2006
MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that among the 15 policy measures proposed at the CPC and the KMT economic forum, many of the agricultural and fishing-related measures have limited substantive benefits. The government needs to inform the public that many of the measures are simply a formal announcement of preexisting practices and therefore represent a repackaging of the same old thing.

April 17, 2006
In an interview with Hong Kong Commercial Daily, Deputy Chairman An Min of China's Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait states that the lack of direct cross-strait shipping links is the biggest obstacle. However, if the basic problem can be resolved, it will be possible to make arrangements under any form or name, even to the extent of an arrangement based on the Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement (CEPA) signed between Hong Kong and China.

April 18, 2006
In an interview with Jean-Jacques Mevel, Beijing Correspondent of Le Figaro of France, President Chen Shui-bian states that holding peaceful referendum, incorporating the right to referendum into the Constitution, and deciding to cease the function of the National Unification Council and its guidelines were aimed at returning the right to decide Taiwan's future and cross-strait relations to the hands of the 23 million people of Taiwan, and ensuring that no political party or government may set preconditions or predetermined conclusions with regard to Taiwan's future. We must not be deprived of the freedom to choose our own destiny; all of our efforts are aimed at consolidating and deepening Taiwan's democracy, rather than moving toward de jure independence.

April 19, 2006
In his remarks delivered at the first anniversary of the pontificate of Pope Benedict XVI, President Chen Shui-bian states that the Republic of China (Taiwan), which practices democracy, enjoys freedom and espouses peace, still faces continual military threats from China. Despite its self-acclaimed "peaceful emergence," China's one party authoritarian regime has yet to renounce its intention to use force or non-peaceful means in dealing with cross-strait issues. In fact, apart from having deployed nearly 800 missiles aimed at Taiwan, China has also passed the so-called "anti-secession law" last year and increased its defense budget at a double-digit rate annually over the past 18 years. China's behaviors not only harm Taiwan's democracy, freedom, and prosperity, but also endanger security and stability in the Taiwan Strait and threaten peace for humanity worldwide.

April 19, 2006
At an Executive Yuan meeting, Premier Su Chen-chang states that the consensus reached at the CPC-KMT Forum can fully considered for promotion if they are beneficial to Taiwan. There is no need to reject the proposals simply because of their source. However, the promotion of the measures must be in accordance with the principle of Taiwan's identity. The government views the forum as a private inter-party exchange without any legally binding effect on government policy. However, government agencies will continue to carry out their administrative tasks and plan promotional measures in accordance to the law.

April 19, 2006
China underwent a WTO trade policy review from April 19 to 21, 2006
in Geneva, Switzerland, its first review since joining the organization four years ago. The review also looked in detail at the cross-strait economic and trade relations.

April 19, 2006
Deputy Minister Lee Jen-chyuan of the Council of Agriculture states that the council will soon release a "place of origin mark" for Taiwan fruit. It will also coordinate with the Taiwan Farmers' Association within the next month and commission the association to register the mark in China.

April 19, 2006
China accepts 153 repatriated Chinese stowaways in Matsu, witnessed by the Red Cross Society of the Republic of China.

April 19, 2006
In an interview with Xinhua News Agency, Deputy Director-Generals Wei Wei of the Department of Consular Affairs under China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs states that Taiwanese compatriots are also Chinese. It is only natural for the government and overseas consular offices of China to protect their legal rights and interests. China will provide Taiwanese compatriots the same treatment it provides to Chinese compatriots.

April 19, 2006
Deputy Director Zhao Gang of the Trademark Office under China's State Administration for Industry and Commerce indicates that any cases involving the marketing of non-Taiwanese fruit as Taiwan fruit can be dealt with in a timely manner if the cases are discovered and reported. Applications can also be submitted for the overturning of Taiwanese fruit trademarks registered in China.

April 19, 2006
At the "Second Summit on China's Capital Markets and Taiwan-invested Enterprise" in Shanghai, Director He Shizhong of the Bureau of Economic Affairs, Taiwan Affairs Office states that before Taiwanese banks are allowed to establish branches in China, both sides must sign a financial supervision MOU. Allowing the establishment of branch offices cannot be announced unilaterally by China, but rather requires negotiations between the two sides. The MOU can be arranged according to the "Macao model."

April 20, 2006
In an article entitled "We Believe in Democracy" published in the Wall Street Journal and simultaneously published in the Asian Wall Street Journal under the title "Strait Talk," President Chen Shui-bian stresses that Taiwan has no intention of changing the status quo and strongly opposes its alteration by non-peaceful means. It is China, not Taiwan, who is determined to alter the status quo in the Taiwan Strait and Northeast Asia. The government of Taiwan remains open to direct cross-strait dialogue without setting any preconditions. As for functional issues such as charter flights, tourism and investment protection for Taiwanese businessmen in China, we are willing to engage in dialogue and negotiations with China to achieve peaceful solutions through peaceful means.

April 20, 2006
While attending a Taiwan Economy and Industry Association members meeting, Premier Su Chen-chang states that the government of Taiwan announced four years ago that it would allow Chinese tourists to visit Taiwan. These visits have been obstructed by the threshold established by the Chinese authorities, which have not yet listed Taiwan as a tourism destination for its residents. Taiwan has long adopted a flexible approach to this issue and welcomes Type 2 and Type 3 Chinese tourists to visit Taiwan. However, China has not yet allowed Type 1 tourists to travel without restriction to Taiwan.

April 20, 2006
In a meeting with U.S. President George W. Bush, PRC President Hu Jintao states that China and the U.S. have common strategic interests in opposing and containing "Taiwan independence" and safeguarding peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. He voices appreciation for President Bush and the U.S. government's repeated statement on their adherence to the "one-China" policy, abidance to the three Sino-U.S. joint communiques and opposition to "Taiwan independence." He insists that the "one-China" principle is the basis for maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, and improving and the development of cross-strait relations. China will, with utmost sincerity and endeavor, strive for a peaceful national reunification and will never tolerate "Taiwan independence."

April 20, 2006
PRC President Hu Jintao attends a reception hosted by U.S. groups friendly to China and delivers a speech stating that the question of Taiwan involves China's core interests. The principles laid down in the three joint communiques should be strictly observed. This is crucial for the sound and stable growth of China- U.S. relations. We will continue to make every effort and work together with our Taiwanese compatriots in full sincerity to ensure the peaceful and stable development of cross-strait relations and China's peaceful reunification. But China will never allow Taiwan independence/secessionist forces to split Taiwan from China under any name or in any form.

April 21, 2006
The MAC issues a press release stating that President George W. Bush's public statement that cross-strait disputes should be peacefully resolved is entirely consistent both with the UN Charter's stipulation and the policy of the government of Taiwan that international disputes should be resolved only through peaceful means. The MAC is supportive of and grateful for this statement. Taiwan will continue to cooperate with the international community and devote its full effort to upholding the status quo, peace, and stability in the Taiwan Strait.

April 21, 2006
The General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine of China announces that starting May 1, 2006, the number of fruit types that may be imported from Taiwan will be increased to 22, up from the previous 18, and 11 types of vegetable will be allowed for import. China will offer self-caught Taiwanese fishing vessels the same treatment as Chinese fishing vessels and allow their seafood products to be transported to Fujian. Upon the presentation of trade contract and invoice documents to the Chinese inspection and quarantine authorities for examination, Taiwanese fishing vessels will no longer need to have a health certificate issued by the authorities in Taiwan.

April 21, 2006
While attending the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference 2006 in Hainan along with Chairman Vincent Siew of Taiwan-based Cross-Strait Common Market Foundation, Zeng Qinghong, member of the Politburo Standing Committee and PRC vice president indicates that the main source of tension in cross-strait relations has not been eliminated, and the danger of "Taiwan independence" remains. In particular, the risk and danger of Taiwan's leaders to pass "constitutional reform" to seek "de jure Taiwan independence" is escalating. In order to protect the core interests of compatriots on both sides, China will never tolerate the separation of Taiwan from the motherland by any person or in any name. China hopes that a great number of Taiwanese compatriots will firmly oppose and block "Taiwan independence" and jointly uphold peace in the Taiwan Strait.

April 23, 2006
During a cross-strait entrepreneur symposium held at the Boao Forum for Asia (BFA), business leaders from both sides discuss and exchange views on the topic of "strengthening cross-strait economic cooperation to realize co-prosperity on both sides."

April 24, 2006
In a meeting with the World Taiwanese Chambers of Commerce delegation, President Chen Shui-bian expresses his hope to realize cross-strait contacts, dialogue, and negotiations. However, Taiwan cannot accept any attempts by China to marginalize and localize Taiwan as well as deny the legitimacy of the government and sovereignty of Taiwan. Any attempt to overstep the duly-elected government is only a part of China's united front tactics, regardless of the opposition party's effort. This is will not have any benefit to the normal development of cross-strait economic and trade relations.

April 24, 2006
The Ministry of Justice (MOJ) delivers a report on "Strengthening Investigation and Prosecution of Illegal Activity by Persons of the Mainland Area in the Taiwan Area," at the 169th MAC council meeting. The report indicates that according to MOJ statistical data, between 2001 and the end of 2005, 18 types of illegal action, mainly criminal in nature, were perpetrated by Chinese people in Taiwan. These include crimes of posing public danger, offenses of forging instruments or seals, offenses against sexual autonomy, offenses against sexual morality, gambling, murder, offenses against personal liberty, larceny, punishment of Smuggling Act, violations of the Narcotics Endangerment Prevention Act, Fishery Law, Employment Services Law, National Security Law, Statute Governing Relations between the People of the Taiwan Area and the People of the Mainland Area, Personal Information Protection Act, Immigration Law, and other cases.

April 24, 2006
The MAC issues a report on "Strengthening Quarantine and Prevention of the Spread of Avian Influenza to Taiwan via the Mini-Three-Links in Kinmen and Matsu" at a Council meeting. The report emphasizes that in order to bolster quarantine inspection and passenger transfers to the main island of Taiwan via Kinmen and Matsu under the Mini-Three-Links, relevant agencies have established a "Six-line Defense Quarantine Mechanism." Moreover, the Council of Agriculture will use dogs at Shueitou Port in Kinmen to sniff out passenger luggage for Chinese animals and plants. The relevant agencies have also set up stations to monitor travelers and migratory birds with signs of irregular health. Additionally, the Coast Guard Administration is implementing a "Clear Sky Program" calling for enhanced patrols of the seas off Kinmen and Matsu to stop smugglers, stowaways and other illegal activity.

April 24, 2006
While attending a KMT legislative caucus, MAC Chief Secretary Jan Jyr-horng states that under current laws and regulations, the governments on both sides need to sign a currency settlement agreement before financial institutions can be allowed to offer full-scale RMB exchange services. The MAC hopes that an agreement can be reached within six months. If this cannot be completely within the time frame, the MAC and other agencies will study and draft a set of measures to establish, within the limits of the law, designated currency exchange points to facilitate future direct visits to Taiwan by Chinese tourists.

April 24, 2006
At an anniversary celebration of the Institute of Taiwan Studies at Beijing Union University, Taiwan Affairs Office Deputy Director Sun Yafu indicates that when dealing with Taiwan in the future, China will firmly uphold the theme of peaceful and stable cross-strait development. However, there must be a major foundation for the resumption of dialogue, negotiations, and equal consultations, and that is acknowledgement and firm adherence to the "1992 Consensus."

April 24, 2006
During an interview in Japan, Deputy Director Wang Zaixi of China's Taiwan Affairs Office states that the promotion of a "referendum-established constitution" is very likely to become a major part of secessionist "Taiwan independence" activities over the next two years. The government and people of China will continue to make opposing and blocking "Taiwan independence" the most urgent mission in the period ahead. It will also adopt measures to expand cross-strait exchanges, in addition to continue to oppose all types of "Taiwan independence" activities.

April 25, 2006
Premier Su Chen-chang announces that with regard to increasing contact between people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait, the government will, starting May 1 this year, allow Kinmen and Matsu natives and their families (including spouses, lineal blood relatives, and second-degree relatives, such as collateral blood relatives, spouses and minor children) residing on the main island of Taiwan to visit China via Kinmen or Matsu. Moreover, a transport route line will be opened between Kinmen and Quanzhou from June; and China will be invited to conduct a "joint beach rescue exercise."

April 25, 2006
MAC Vice Chairman Johnnason Liu states that the Mini-Three-Links were implemented to provide a convenient cross-strait channel for the Kinmen and Matsu residents of Taiwan. The addition of a direct link between Kinmen and Quanzhou is indicative of the government's consistent pragmatic attitude in managing affairs related to the Mini-Three-Links. In the future, the government will continue to promote the implementation of the Mini-Three-Links policy under the principles of upholding Taiwan's identity and policy initiative.

April 25, 2006
In response to recent accusations by Taiwanese residents of China operating underground concentration camps in Sujiatun and other labor camps, and prisons where the organs of Falun Gong practitioners are sold for profit and the victims' bodies subsequently incinerated on site, the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) sends a letter to the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait asking that it contact the relevant agencies in China to thoroughly investigate the case, strictly punish those involved, and uphold basic human rights.

April 25, 2006
A tour group organized by Sun Star Travel Service Co. in Kaohsiung City's is involved in a bus accident during a tour of Wuyi Mountain in Fujian Province, resulting in serious injuries to five tour members and light injuries to 22. Upon learning about the incident, the SEF promptly requested the Zhangzhou chapter of the Taiwanese Businessmen's Association to visit and look after the injured and assist them in transferring to Zhongshan Hospital in Xiamen for further treatment.

April 25, 2006
At a press conference, China's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Qin Gang states that the further clarification of their positions on the Taiwan question by China and the U.S. will be conducive to the maintenance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Straits and the promotion of the stability, development, and prosperity of the Asian-Pacific region. China appreciates President George W. Bush and the U.S. government's reiteration of the "one-China" policy, the abidance to the three China-US Joint Communiques, and opposition to Taiwan independence.

April 26, 2006
With regard to the matter of four Taiwanese travelers seriously injured in a bus accident in Zhangzhou city, Fujian Province, the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) sends a letter to the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS) requesting consent for SEF personnel to accompany the families of the injured and assist in the arrangement of related medical matters. However, after contacting various parties, no positive responses were given by the ARATS regarding the matter by the time the families were due to depart from Kinmen for China.

April 26, 2006
The Bureau of Foreign Trade, Ministry of Economic Affairs convenes a meeting to review the lifting of restrictions on imports from China. It invites the Council of Agriculture, Environmental Protection Administration, Directorate General of Customs, other customs authorities, Industrial Development Bureau and related industry associations to jointly review the relaxing of restrictions on Chinese import items proposed by businesses and business associations. The meeting initially agreed to lift restrictions on five import items from China: iron-titanium powder (anti-rust pigment), bromomethane (methyl bromide), automotive safety airbag controllers, and computer flat/ribbon cables (for 150 watt systems).

April 26, 2006
Zhang Jianzhong, spokesman of the China National Tourism Administration, states that China welcomes private travel industry organizations in Taiwan to hold negotiations on specific arrangements with China's Cross-Strait Tourism Exchange Association at any time.

April 27, 2006
In an interview with Senior Editorial Writer Keiko Chino and International Edition Editor Yoshiro Toriumi of Japan's Sankei Shimbun, President Chen Shui-bian states his insistence that Taiwan's economy is independent from China, and the "proactive management and effective liberalization" policy is not only the duty of the government, but also a response to the risks that all Taiwanese enterprises should be aware of when investing in China.

April 27, 2006
The MAC and the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) jointly announce that Taiwanese enterprises will be allowed to invest in low-level semiconductor packaging and testing services and small panel production in China. MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that the policy is the product of deliberation by the Executive Yuan and National Security Council, consensus among relevant agency heads, and prior extensive negotiation with related parties. MOEA states that from April 28, cross-strait investment in "low-level semiconductor packaging and testing services" and "mid-level processing of under-four-inch panels" would be reclassified from restricted to general (allowed) investment.

April 27, 2006
At a press conference, China's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Qin Gang states that the government of China has consistently treated Taiwan's activities on the international stage in line with the "one China" principle. It firmly opposes the participation of Taiwanese political figures in international activities, especially by "Taiwan independence" forces that under all manner of pretext will don hats and wave flags to carry out their secessionist activities on the international stage. China firmly opposes Taiwanese political figures' activities in the U.S. in any name or under any pretext, and hopes that the U.S. will honor its commitment of adhering to "one China" policy, abiding by the three China-US Joint Communiques, opposing "Taiwan Independence," and forbidding Chen Shui-bian from conducting activities in the U.S. in any name or under any pretext.

April 28, 2006
The Center for Disease Control under the Department of Health, Executive Yuan states that it was notified by the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention on April 27, 2006
that one person in China's Sichuan Province has been diagnosed with the avian influenza virus.

April 28, 2006
The Bureau of Foreign Trade, Ministry of Economic Affairs, announces that in the first two months of 2006, Taiwan's total trade with China's amounted to US$12.39 billion, up 18.8% from the previous year. The figure represents 19.7% of Taiwan's total foreign trade during the period, an increase of 0.7 percentage points over the same period in 2004.

April 28, 2006
Public security authorities in Guangdong Province arrest Tang Jung-hung, a member of the gang of Chang Hsi-ming, and repatriate him to Taiwan in accordance with the Kinmen Accord.

April 28, 2006
China's Ministry of Commerce announces that export restrictions on natural sand (HS codes 2505100000 and 2505900000) originally slated to be enacted on May 1, 2006, would be delayed to a date to be specified later in order to allow producers time to adjust.

April 28, 2006
In a meeting with western overseas Chinese representatives, Taiwan Affairs Office Deputy Director Wang Zaixi states that the danger of Taiwanese leadership's attempts to pass "constitutional reform" to seek "de jure Taiwan independence" is escalating. "Taiwan independence" secession forces are the biggest obstacles to the development of cross-strait relations and peaceful unification of the motherland. This is the greatest threat to peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and even Asia.

April 29, 2006
China again uses the threat of withholding UN peacekeepers from Haiti and enlisting the international community to pressure Haiti in an unreasonable attempt to prevent Premier Su Chen-chang from attending the inauguration of Haiti's new president on May 14, 2006. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs sternly expresses its strong dissatisfaction with China's repeated suppression of Taiwan in the international arena.

April 30, 2006
In a media interview during an inspection tour of the Taiwan Orchid Plantation, Premier Su Chen-chang strongly criticizes China for stopping at nothing to pressure Taiwan, even going as far as obstructing the premier's attendance at the presidential inauguration in Haiti.

May 1, 2006
The National Police Agency under the Ministry of the Interior announces revisions to the "Notice on the Submission of Documentation by Mainland Area People Applying for Entry into Kinmen and Matsu."

May 1, 2006
The National Police Agency under the Ministry of the Interior revises the "Regulations Governing the Trial Operation of the Entry and Exit of Persons Traveling between Kinmen and Matsu and the Mainland Area." From May 1, 2006, natives of Kinmen and Matsu who reside in Taiwan can freely travel across the Strait via the "Mini-Three-Links" route without the need to travel in groups. They may also be accompanied by their spouse, lineal blood relatives, and second-degree relatives, such as collateral blood relatives, spouse and minor children. The Regulations are not applicable to persons with civil servant status.

May 1, 2006
China's General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine announces that from May 1, 2006
the number of Taiwan fruit types approved for import to the Chinese market after inspection and quarantine will be officially increased from 18 to 22. At the same time, it will allow import of 11 major types of Taiwan produce after inspection and quarantine and at a zero tariff rate. Additionally, China officially permits Taiwan fishing vessels to export their catch to Fujian in accordance with the methods of China's self-catch fishing vessels, by directly presenting their license to fish on the high seas along with trade contract and invoice documents to China's inspection and quarantine authorities for examination. China no longer requires Taiwanese fishing vessels to have a health certificate issued by Taiwan's responsible authorities.

May 2, 2006
In an interview with Taiwan's model laborers of the year and their families, President Chen Shui-bian states that Article 95 of the "Act Governing Relations between Peoples of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area" requires the Legislative Yuan to reach a resolution before Chinese persons are allowed to work in Taiwan. At present, the Taiwanese government still strictly abide by the principle of protecting the employment opportunities of the Taiwanese people, and it has not yet agreed to relax restrictions on admitting Chinese labors to work in Taiwan. In the future, the Taiwanese government will strictly manage related matters to protect the employment opportunities of Taiwan's low-level workers.

May 3, 2006
In a meeting with Izumi Kenta, a member of the Japanese Diet and director of the Democratic Party's department of youth affairs, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that although China's economic and trade markets are constantly growing, many uncertainties exist. In managing cross-strait economic and trade issues, Taiwan must consider factors that could adversely affect cross-strait relations so as to achieve balanced development. It should also strengthen risk-management controls to ensure that Taiwan's economic interests are not affected.

May 3, 2006
Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesman Michel Lu states at a press conference that China has constantly exerted pressure on even nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) in Taiwan, such as Red Cross and others, to prevent their participation in international bodies. This is fundamentally unhelpful to the improvement of cross-strait relations.

May 3, 2006
The Ministry of Economic Affairs announces that five items will be added to the list of products that can be imported from China to Taiwan, including CCC2903.30.90.21-4 bromoform (tribromomethane).

May 4, 2006
Before boarding the plane to depart on his "Sustainable Peace, Eternal Friendship" tour to Latin America, President Chen Shui-bian indicates that if China is sincere about engaging in dialogue and exchanges, it should hold talks with Taiwan's elected government. It should not force Taiwan into a corner or strip Taiwan of its space for survival in the international community; it should not deprive the 23 million Taiwanese people of their health rights; and it should not resort to force or non-peaceful means to resolve the issue of non-acceptance of the "ultimate unification" across the Taiwan Strait.

May 4, 2006
At an Executive Yuan meeting, Premier Su Tseng-chang notes that the recent three incidents involving the premier's planned visit to Haiti, China's diplomatic pressures on Taiwan's allies in the Middle East, and the problems encountered by President Chen Shui-bian during his overseas visits indicate that China has employed all conceivable means to obstruct Taiwan from conducting "transit diplomacy." The people of Taiwan should intensify vigilance in this regard.

May 4, 2006
Director Yang Chia-chun of the Department of Legal Affairs at the MAC indicates in an interview that over the past two months, five batches of repatriation of Chinese stowaways have been conducted-the highest frequency recorded in the past ten years. Moreover, there are still 689 illegal Chinese stowaways held at the Detention Center for People of the Mainland Area awaiting repatriation.

May 5, 2006
After Gambia and other allied countries issue a letter to the president of the U.N. General Assembly and U.N. secretary-general to convey Taiwan's position on ceasing the functioning of the National Unification Council (NUC) and the application of the National Unification Guidelines (NUG), China's ambassador to the U.N. Wang Guangya sends a letter to the U.N. secretary-general reiterating China's old cliche about the so-called "one China." The letter criticizes Taiwan for ceasing the functioning of the NUC and the application of the NUG, saying it is aimed at promoting Taiwan independence, provoking peace in the Taiwan Strait, and creating tensions in cross-strait relations. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs believes that Wang's remarks run counter to the facts, and therefore issued a stern explanation.

May 5, 2006
Sun Yafu, deputy director of China's Taiwan Affairs Office and vice chairman of the Association for Relations across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS), states that former Vice Minister of Commerce Zhang Anmin has been appointed as ARATS vice chairman.

May 7, 2006
The spokesperson of China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs states that the Chinese government has maintained consistent and clear position in managing its relations with the Vatican based on the two basic principles: that the Vatican must break off so-called "diplomatic relations" with Taiwan; and that the Vatican must not interfere in China's domestic affairs, including interference in the name of religion.

May 8, 2006
The Ministry of Education (MOE) issues a press release stating that the recognition of diplomas issued by China's institutes of higher education is by no means a simple educational issue, because it involves the sustainable development and deployment of higher-education personnel. In handling this issue, the government will consider the consistency of Taiwan's China policy implemented by related ministries and departments as well as the sensitive cross-strait relations. The following factors must also be carefully considered:

1. National security, public demands and other major factors.
2. Academic professional levels and educational systems of those recognized schools should be equivalent to Taiwan's schools of the same level and type.
3. Impact on Taiwan's higher education.
4. Impact on the domestic job market.

Based on the above-mentioned principles, the MOE has not yet approved of the examination and recognition of diplomas issued by China's institutes of higher education, nor has it accepted any registration for this purpose.

May 9, 2006
President Chen Shui-bian visits Costa Rica. In a speech delivered at the 2006 Annual Meeting of the Latin American Chapter of the Global Alliance for Democracy and Peace (GADP), he emphasizes that both sides of the Taiwan Strait should engage in government-to-government dialogue and consultations and actively seek to establish an effective mechanism for interactions and exchanges in order to overcome their differences, build mutual trust, and resolve issues. Only by so doing, will it be possible for both sides to enhance the welfare of the people across the Strait and to meet the expectations of the international community.

May 9, 2006
During a tea party held in Costa Rica for accompanying Taiwanese reporters, President Chen Shui-bian indicates that democratic Taiwan is certainly by no means a "troublemaker." A fundamental solution to cross-strait issues requires the renouncement of the use of force and other non-peaceful means. The only approach to solving the issue lies in dialogue. Without government-to-government dialogue across the Strait, it will be impossible to reach a fundamental and final resolution to the Taiwan Strait issue.

May 9, 2006
The Bureau of Food and Drug Analysis under the Department of Health (DOH) recently completed testing of a batch of Chinese drugs. It found that among 34 drugs seized by police from people entering Taiwan via the "Mini-Three-Links" route, all of them were aphrodisiacs, sedatives, local anesthetics, and other types of western medicine. The DOH earnestly urged that the people planning to visit China not buy China's pharmaceuticals that are not properly marked or intended for inappropriate uses.

May 9, 2006
Vice Minister Jiang Yaoping of China's Ministry of Information Industry led a Chinese delegation composed of representatives from information industries across the Strait to attend the "Second Cross-strait Forum on Technical Standards for the Information Industry."

May 10, 2006
The Eighth Cross-Straits Fair for Economy and Trade will be held on May 18, 2006. The first "Penghu Day" activity will be held during the Fair. The event will include a Penghu exhibition pavilion and a "Fuzhou-Penghu Cooperation Seminar."

May 10, 2006
In a meeting with the commander of U.S. Pacific Command Admiral William Fallon, Cao Gangchuan, deputy commissioner of the Mainland's CPC Central Military Commission and minister of national defense, states that the Taiwan issue is related to the core interests of China. He hopes that the U.S. will clearly oppose "Taiwan independence"; clearly support China's active efforts to maintain peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and to improve and develop cross-strait relations; terminate military exchanges with Taiwan; and terminate the sale of advanced weapons to Taiwan.

May 10, 2006
Jiang Yaoping, honorary chairman of the China Communications Standards Association (CCSA) and deputy minister of China's Ministry of Information Industry, offers viewpoints and proposals on the following three points concerning the deepening of cross-strait information industry exchanges and cooperation:

1. Strengthening cross-strait industry cooperation and promoting the joint development of the information industry across the Strait
2. Focusing cooperation in the area of technical standards to upgrade the innovative ability of the information industries across the Strait
3. Using the platform of technical standards forums to consolidate the industry efforts across the Strait in promoting developments in technology.

May 11, 2006
During an interview held in the Legislative Yuan, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu says that if the promotion of direct cross-strait transportation links were based on the Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) and People First Party's (PFP) proposed draft amendments to the "Act Governing Relations between Peoples of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area," then it would be likely to create various problems in matters involving negotiations on air and sea transportation. Such problems include the issues of liaison between the flight information regions of both sides when aircraft fly, the handling of credentials of aircraft and steamship, and the flying of national flags on vessels. These issues must be resolved through cross-strait negotiations.

May 11, 2006
Taiwan's Nantou County Council and the Standing Committee of the Nanjing Municipal People's Congress sign an "Agreement on the Establishment of Exchange and Cooperation Relations" in Nanjing, officially creating a normalized exchange and liaison channel. This is the second such agreement signed by the Jiangsu Standing Committee of the People's Congress following a similar agreement inked between Wuxi City and the Taitung County Council in Taiwan.

May 12, 2006
During a speech at the dinner banquet marking the European Day, President Chen Shui-bian states that totalitarian China and democratic Taiwan are two sovereign nations with no jurisdiction over each other. Each has its own national flag, national moniker, and national anthem, and each has its own constitution, government, military, and judicial system. They are two entirely different countries. This has been the peaceful status quo in the Taiwan Strait for over half a century. The sole threat to this status quo is totalitarian China, which has never ceased its attempts to invade and annex democratic Taiwan by force. Taiwan is by no means the troublemaker for regional peace and stability; rather, it is the staunch protector and defender of the peaceful status quo in the Taiwan Strait.

May 12, 2006
China's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Liu Jianchao expresses strong dissatisfaction over discussions between Libya and Taiwan on the mutual establishment of representative offices as well as Libya's approval of Chen Shui-bian's "transit stop" in Libya.

May 12, 2006
China's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Liu Jianchao indicates that China is seriously concerned over Chen Shui-bian's stopover in Indonesia, and has already sternly communicated with the Indonesian side. China has demanded that Indonesia take concrete actions to honor its pledge of "one China" policy and preserve its momentous friendly relations with China. The Indonesian government reiterated that it staunchly abides by the "one China" policy, and stated its deep regrets over Chen Shui-bian's overstay in Indonesia and his engagement in actions inconsistent with the plane refueling.

May 12, 2006
From May 18 to 22, 2006 the Eighth Cross-Straits Fair for Economy and Trade will be held in Fuzhou, aiming to become a new experimental window for China's economic and trade policy toward Taiwan in the Economic Zone on the West Coast of the Taiwan Strait. This year, the Fair plans to first implement the following four economic and trade policies regarding Taiwan:

1. Expand the types and scope of tariff-free treatment for Taiwan's agricultural and fishery product exports to China
2. Promote the restoration and implementation of cooperation with Taiwan on fishing labor affairs
3. Encourage Taiwanese residents to apply for the establishment of individual business households in China
4. Take the initiative in allowing Chinese residents of other provinces to visit Kinmen and Matsu.

May 12, 2006
The Guangdong Entry-Exit Inspection and Quarantine Bureau implements six measures including technical support, customs clearance facilitation, and others in order to promote agricultural, economic and trade development between Guangdong and Taiwan.

May 13, 2006
In a speech at a symposium on "Cross-strait Relations and the China Problem" at National Taiwan University's Graduate Institute of National Development, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that democratization in China is the key to opening the door to improved cross-strait relations. However, China fears that cross-strait exchanges will enable Taiwan's democracy to pose a challenge to Chinese political system. China's multiple misgivings have created a structural bottleneck to cross-strait relations. Therefore, unless China implements democratization, it will be impossible to normalize the development of cross-strait relations.

May 14, 2006
The Fuzhou City Government introduces "Opinions on the Registration and Management of Individual Businesses by Taiwan Residents in Fuzhou (Trial)." The Opinions stipulate that Taiwan residents applying to establish individual businesses in the administrative district of Fuzhou City can directly register with the county, city or district industrial and commercial administration bureau in the place of their businesses.

May 16, 2006
In a meeting with Michael Green, senior director for Asian Affairs at the U.S. White House National Security Council, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that direct cross-strait transportation links involve issues of national sovereignty, and national sovereignty cannot be decided by vote. Problems likely to be encountered in direct cross-strait transportation links must be resolved through negotiations, and before direct transportation links are established a related security mechanism should be established to safeguard the overall interests of the country. At present, liaison and arrangements are underway for negotiations on cross-strait cargo and passenger charter flights. The Taiwanese government hopes that through negotiations both sides across the Strait can normalize cargo and passenger charter flights before cross-strait negotiations on direct transportation links have been completed.

May 17, 2006
In an interview with EuroNews reporter Julian Lopez Gomez, President Chen Shui-bian indicates that he is not opposed to the normalization of cross-strait economic and trade relations, but he must insist on Taiwan's identity and undertake necessary risk-management controls.

May 17, 2006
In a meeting with the UK House of Commons Foreign Affairs Committee members, President Chen Shui-bian emphasizes that the Taiwanese government swears to defend peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and maintain the status quo of democracy, freedom and human rights in Taiwan. Over the past 50 years, the status quo in the Taiwan Strait has been that totalitarian China and democratic Taiwan are two sovereign nations with no jurisdiction over each other, and both exist as independent countries. Each side of the Taiwan Strait has its own national moniker, national flag, national anthem, national assembly, government, military, and judicial system. This is the status quo that Taiwan will preserve, and Taiwan hopes the status quo will not be unilaterally changed.

May 17, 2006
The MAC issues a press release indicating that Taiwan have commissioned relevant organizations to conduct communication and liaison with their Chinese counterparts on the issues of the promotion of cross-strait cargo and passenger charter flights, the opening up of tourism in Taiwan for Chinese tourists, and China's intention to import Taiwan's agricultural products. Certain results have been reached in this regard. However, China has only paid lip-service to such matters and has not actively followed up with the holding of negotiations. The MAC appeals to China to show its sincerity by respecting and promptly making a concrete reply to Taiwan's proposal through the windows designated by both sides, and by actively arranging for the holding of cross-strait negotiations on related issues.

May 17, 2006
The MAC issues a press release indicating that Taiwan has commissioned relevant organizations to conduct communication and liaison with their Chinese counterparts on the issues of the promotion of cross-strait cargo and passenger charter flights, the opening up of tourism in Taiwan for Chinese tourists, and China's intention to import Taiwan's agricultural products. Certain results have been reached in this regard. However, China has only paid lip-service to these matters and has not actively followed up by holding negotiations. The MAC appeals to China to show its sincerity by respecting and promptly making a concrete reply to Taiwan's proposal through the windows designated by both sides, and by actively arranging for the holding of cross-strait negotiations on related issues.

May 17, 2006
Deputy Director Liu Junchuan of the Economic Affairs Bureau under the Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) of China's State Council indicates during a press conference at TAO that it is inappropriate for personnel of Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) and Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) to participate in the negotiations between civilian organizations of both sides across the Strait on technical issues pertaining to tariff-free treatment for Taiwan's agricultural and fishery product exports to China.

May 17, 2006
At a regular press conference, the Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) announces that the General Administration of Customs (GAC) of the People's Republic of China will allow Taiwan compatriots to take customs official examinations; that the General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine of the People's Republic of China (AQSIQ) has notified various inspection and quarantine agencies to continue streamlining inspection and quarantine procedures for Taiwan's agricultural exports to China; and that China's Association for Cross-Straits Economic and Trade Exchanges has invited civilian farming and fishing organizations in Taiwan and civilian organizations commissioned by the responsible authorities in Taiwan to hold negotiations on technical issues pertaining to agricultural imports. The TAO also explains the three-phase opening up of tourism in Taiwan for Chinese tourists.

May 18, 2006
President Chen Shui-bian presides at the National Security Council meeting and after hearing the 2006 National Security Report states that he will insist that cross-strait disputes must be resolved through peaceful dialogue. Under the four major principles of sovereignty, democracy, peace and parity, Taiwan is willing to conduct dialogue and consultations with China and to actively seek to establish a Peace and Stability Framework for Cross-Strait Interactions. Taiwan also hopes to join with other democracies of the world to promote democratic reform in China and bring about sustained peace and prosperity to the region.

May 18, 2006
In a discussion with overseas Chinese living in Scotland and Northern Ireland, Assistant Director of the State Council's Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) Zhang Mingqing states that firmly opposing and deterring "Taiwan's de jure independence" is the most important and pressing task at present. Regardless of how the cross-strait situation evolves, the Chinese government will adhere firmly to its Taiwan policy and related guidelines regarding "peaceful unification" and "one country, two systems." It will also thoroughly carry out the Eight-point Proposal in promoting cross-strait relations and peaceful unification of the motherland and Hu Jintao's four-point proposal on developing cross-strait relations under the current trend. The Chinese government will take further measures to expand cross-strait exchanges in various areas, and continue to oppose various "Taiwan independence" secessionist activities. At the same time, it will prepare for the use of non-peaceful means to deter "Taiwan independence" and firmly defend the nation's sovereignty and territorial integrity. It will never allow any person to separate Taiwan from China by any means.

May 18, 2006
The Eighth Cross-Straits Fair for Economy and Trade and Third Commodities Fair Fujian China (CFFC) commence in Fuzhou.

May 18, 2006
Wu Xilin, director of the Department of Foreign Economic Cooperation under China's Ministry of Commerce announces the Chinese authorities' decision to officially restore cross-strait fishing labor cooperation, and to send the first batch of fishermen on May 19, 2006.

May 18, 2006
China's Ministry of Health states that it is actively studying the implementation of specific measures to extend the period that doctors from Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macao may practice medicine in China from the current one-year limit to three years.

May 19, 2006
In a meeting with students attending the "Overseas Taiwanese Businessmen's Bedrock Award and Model Entrepreneur Course," President Chen Shui-bian states that cross-strait relations are indeed being improved in an orderly and gradual manner, and it would be impossible to make such relations instantly improved in one swoop. Any major dramatic changes would not only sabotage national security, but would also introduce uncertainties into current cross-strait relations.

May 19, 2006
In a videoconference with prominent opinion leaders in Geneva, Switzerland, President Chen Shui-bian indicates that if China meets five conditions, the Taiwanese people might be willing to change their attitudes toward ultimate unification with China. The first of these is that the Chinese Communist authorities must abandon totalitarian rule in China. Second, China must truly implement a system based on democracy, freedom, and respect for human rights. Third, China must stop suppressing Taiwan, including its suppression of Taiwan's participation in the WHO in the international arena. Fourth, China must renounce its attempts to use force against Taiwan, withdraw the missiles targeted against Taiwan, and repeal the so-called "anti-separation law." And fifth, China must respect the right of the 23 million Taiwanese people to make choices according to their free will. President Chen says he does not believe, however, that conditions are currently ripe for this, nor does he believe that the Taiwanese people would now accept a so-called confederation model. This is because China has repeatedly tried to belittle Taiwan's status, marginalize Taiwan, and treat Taiwan's government as a local government. China has not only attempted to "de-governmentalize" Taiwan, but has also tried to deprive Taiwan of its sovereignty.

May 19, 2006
Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) Deputy Director Ye Kedong states that cross-strait relations have undergone major changes since China embarked on reforms. He says that the "pursuit of peace, stability and development" has become the mainstream view among the Taiwanese people; and that Chen Shui-bian's plot to promote "de jure Taiwan independence" will never be realized.

May 19, 2006
Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Liu Jianchao states that China is a member country of the World Health Organization (WHO), and that Taiwan is a part of China. Taiwan is not qualified to become a member or observer of the WHO. The WHO has rejected Taiwan's motion nine times consecutively, indicating that the international community has formed a consensus on this issue. The real intention of the Taiwanese authorities in raising the motion at the WHO is to use the health issue for political purposes, and to serve the goals of "Taiwan independence" separatist activities. This political scheme will not succeed.

May 20, 2006
The National Security Council releases the 2006 National Security Report. The report clearly states that China's threat to Taiwan has extended from traditional military security to economic, trade, environmental and social dimensions-a fact it hopes the Taiwanese people will clearly recognize. MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu says that the report has a guiding effect in concentrating on the main points, enabling people in Taiwan and abroad to understand the security situation and threat facing the Taiwanese government. He also notes that the report represents the Taiwanese government's transparent and responsible mindset.

May 20, 2006
Director General Tsai Lien-sheng of the Intellectual Property Office under the Ministry of Economic Affairs will visit Beijing on May 23, 2006
to discuss with officials of China's Trademark Office and other related agencies regarding the impact on commercial opportunities of Taiwanese companies due to the fact that many Taiwan's place names have been illegally registered as trademarks in China.

May 20, 2006
The Bureau of Maritime Affairs of Fujian Province introduces five measures, including the measure to give priority to the handling of seaman certification applications by Taiwan's deep-sea fishermen and the measure to streamline certification renewal and to issue certification.

May 22, 2006
The 59th World Health Assembly (WHA) convenes in Geneva. China's Minister of Health Gao Qiang states at the assembly that a small number of countries have proposed, under the pretext of concern for the health of the people of Taiwan, that the Taiwanese authorities be invited to attend the WHA as observers, though only sovereign countries may attend the assembly. This is in essence not a health issue, but a political issue. It is an attempt by the Taiwanese authorities to seek international space for their "Taiwan independence" position.

May 23, 2006
Vice Minister Jiang Yaoping of China's Ministry of Information Industry states that nearly two billion minutes were spent in making cross-strait phone calls last year, equally about 5.4 million minutes a day.

May 23, 2006
China officially begins using the new double-hulled vessel "Haixia" for cross-strait repatriation work. Deputy Director-general Li Bingcai of China's Taiwan Affairs Office states that he is pleased to see further strengthening in cross-strait cooperation to jointly combat "snakeheads" (people smugglers), effectively resolve the problem of smuggling for criminal purposes, and jointly create a benign atmosphere across the Strait.

May 24, 2006
In a meeting with members of the Swedish-Taiwanese Parliamentary Friendship Association, a Taiwan-friendly group in the Swedish parliament, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu indicates that Taiwan's application to join the WHO is not a political issue, but an issue of national health. However, Taiwan's tenth bid to become an observer member of the WHO failed due to China's suppression. China's action has once again seriously hurt the feelings of the Taiwanese people.

May 24, 2006
In a response to reporters, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Liu Jianchao states that China is intensely dissatisfied with and firmly opposes the 2006 Annual Report on the Military Power of the People's Republic of China issued by the U.S. Department of Defense. He says that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China's territory. The Chinese government adheres to the guiding principles of "peaceful unification" and the "one country, two systems." China is willing with the utmost sincerity and efforts to seek the peaceful unification of the motherland, but it will not tolerate "Taiwan independence" or the separation of Taiwan from China by any person through any means. China urges the U.S. to adhere to the "one China" policy, respect the three Sino-U.S. communiques, uphold its pledge to oppose "Taiwan independence," terminate sales of weapons to Taiwan, and not give out any wrong signals to "Taiwan independence" secessionist forces.

May 25, 2006
Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) Secretary-General You Ying-lung states that the SEF will organize the 2006 Dragon Boat Festival Forum and Gathering for the Taiwanese Businessmen's Associations (TBA)" on June 1, 2006
at the Grand Hyatt Taipei. The event will be attended by over 150 presidents and top officials of TBA chapters, Taiwanese business representatives, and the work personnel of financial, economic and legal consulting teams. The total number of participants will be over 200.

May 26, 2006
In a meeting with Deputy U.S. Trade Representative Karan Bhatia, President Chen Shui-bian reiterates that he will not change his pledges and commitment to President Bush and the U.S. government. President Chen says he will continue to protect Taiwan's democracy, freedom and human rights. He says that Taiwan not only will not unilaterally change the peaceful and stable status quo across the Strait, but also will not tolerate any unilateral changes to the status quo.

May 26, 2006
The MAC issues a press release emphasizing that the Chinese health authorities have rejected the proposal by Taiwan's Minister of Health that both sides meet in Geneva to discuss cooperation on disease control; have obstructed Taiwan's attempts to join the WHA as an observer, and have raised the so-called "four principles." China's such actions are fundamentally aimed at shirking responsibility and cannot win the confidence of others. China's brazen lies on the international stage cannot fool the Taiwanese people, nor can they fool the people of the world.

May 26, 2006
In a meeting with French MP Patrick Balkany and other dignitaries from France, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that cross-strait disputes should be resolved by peaceful means without resorting to force and threats. The international community should also convey this message to China so that peaceful negotiations can replace military confrontation.

May 27, 2006
MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that the Taiwanese people should keep vigilance over China's "united front" tactics of promoting unification with the lure of talks and its methods of "making Taiwan surrender without a fight" with the objective of "swallowing up" Taiwan. Facing China's "totalitarian," "dictatorial," and "single whip" command system, the Taiwanese people should be aware of the Chinese authorities' warlike nature. They should take countermeasures against China by consolidating Taiwan's sovereign status, deepening democratic systems and helping China democratize, and forging national consensus and strengthening psychological defenses.

May 29, 2006
At the 170th Council Meeting of the MAC, the Ministry of the Interior presents a report on draft revisions to Article 17 of the "Permit Regulations Governing the Entry of Mainland Area People into Taiwan Area ," Article 20 of the "Permit Regulations Governing the Entry of Mainland Area Professionals into Taiwan for Professional Activities," Article 5 of the "Permit Regulations Governing the Residency, Permanent Residency, or the Domicile of Mainland-Area People in Taiwan through the Family Relationship," and Article 18 of the "Permit Regulations Governing the Entry into Taiwan by Hong Kong and Macau Residents and Their Residency or Domicile in Taiwan." The revisions would remove the requirement that letters of guarantee be submitted to the police agencies located in the area where the guarantor's household is registered for guarantee return processing. According to the revisions, the Immigration Office under the National Police Agency will be empowered to conduct reviews on related matters.

May 29, 2006
The MAC Council Meeting discusses and approves a measure to allow Chinese professionals to visit Taiwan to engage in commercial activities related to cultural, educational and professional exchanges. Mass media professionals will be allowed to come to Taiwan to conduct reasonable and necessary publicity activities, and can hold press conferences and be interviewed by media agencies (including newspapers, magazines, television and radio) on issues related to the permitted purpose of their visit.

May 29, 2006
Taiwan Affairs Office Deputy Director Zheng Lizhong states that conducting cross-strait financial cooperation and exchanges is an important part of promoting the deeper development of cross-strait economic relations. At present, there are no policy obstructions to the listing of Taiwan enterprises on China's A-share markets, and Taiwan enterprises are actively encouraged to publicly list in China.

May 30, 2006
Li Yonghua, deputy director of the Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) of China's Ministry of Agriculture, says in an interview with a reporter from Xinhua News Agency that the two newly approved cross-strait agricultural cooperation pilot zones and two business incubation parks for Taiwan farmers have been established. The two cooperation pilot zones are in Yulin City, Guangxi Province and Foshan City and Zhanjiang City, Guangdong Province.

May 30, 2006
Yang Zhangke, deputy director of the General Office of China's National Supply and Marketing Cooperative General Agency (NSMCGA), states that China has fully started work on organizing agricultural product procurement missions to Taiwan. The NSMCGA is now selecting excellent enterprises and organizations to take part in the procurement mission, and it has made initial communication and negotiations with Taiwan. It is hoped that the mission visit can be realized at an early date to assist Taiwanese farmers in resolving the problem of insufficient market demand for their bumper harvest.

May 31, 2006
The MAC issues a press release solemnly indicating that adhering to the national identity of Taiwan and preserving peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait have been the Taiwanese government's consistent positions and the core spirit of its current cross-strait policy. Public opinion surveys conducted over the years have highlighted that the overwhelming majority of the Taiwanese people are in favor of the development of normalized cross-strait relations under the precondition that national security is ensured.

May 31, 2006
Deputy Director He Ziyang of the General Office of China's Ministry of Agriculture notes that at present more than 5,000 Taiwan-invested agricultural enterprises have invested a total of nearly US$4 billion in China.

May 31, 2006
The Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) announces at a regular press conference that Fujian Province will provide direct transportation services for Kinmen-bound passengers at Shijing Harbor in Quanzhou, open a "green corridor" for the shipment of agricultural products from Taiwan, establish a marketing counter for Taiwan's agricultural products, and further open customs official qualifying examinations to participation by Taiwan compatriots and compatriots in the Hong Kong and Macao areas. The TAO also states that it is inappropriate for personnel of Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) and Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) to participate in the negotiations between civilian organizations of both sides across the Strait on technical issues pertaining to tariff-free treatment for Taiwan's agricultural and fishery product exports to China. It urges the relevant responsible authorities in Taiwan to promptly allow Taiwan's civilian travel organizations to conduct negotiations with China's Cross-strait Tourism Exchange Association (CTEA). The TAO also criticizes the "National Security Report" recently issued by the Taiwanese authorities, calling it a collection of Chen Shui-bian's "Taiwan independence" separatist views that slander and attack the Chinese motherland. It is intentionally aimed at undermining the feelings of compatriots on both sides and seeks to provoke cross-strait conflicts. The report also highlights again that Taiwan's leadership has not only stubbornly adhered to the separatist position of "Taiwan independence," but has also continued to promote the radical agenda of "Taiwan independence" secessionists in an attempt to destroy the peaceful development of cross-strait relations.

June 1, 2006
At the Dinner Party hosted for the 2006 Dragon Boat Festival gathering of the Taiwan businessmen's associations, Premier Su Tseng-chang indicates that the Taiwanese government will abide by President Chen Shui-bian's cross-strait economic and trade policy of "proactive management and effective liberalization," and adopt "Taiwan's identity and policy initiative" as a main hub. Everything must be done in consideration of Taiwan's identity with a view to perfectly fulfilling management responsibilities and reducing investment risks. Premier Su expresses that the government's efforts are aimed at providing a bright future for Taiwan's businesses and citizens as well as creating an even better future for the nation.

June 1, 2006
At the 2006 Dragon Boat Festival gathering of the Taiwan businessmen's associations, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that the Taiwanese government will actively show goodwill to create an environment for cross-strait reconciliation. It is hoped that under such an environment, China may be willing to engage in negotiations with Taiwan on substantive issues. Chairman Wu also notes that in future both sides across the Strait must sit down to discuss issues such as the examination of travel certificates held by tourists, the signing of cooperation agreements between travel agencies across the Strait, and the governmental supervision mechanisms. This is aimed at maintaining high-quality travel and resolving disputes. Only in this way can the quality of cross-strait travel be ensured.

June 1, 2006
Deputy Director Zheng Lizhong of the Taiwan Affairs Office indicates that the continued development of cross-strait economic and trade ties has brought about ever closer exchanges between China and Taiwan. In view of the large cross-strait flows of personnel, goods and information, both sides need to vigorously promote full-scale, direct and two-way "Three Links" across the Strait.

June 4, 2006
Vice Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi notes in an article published in Qiu Shi magazine, the flagship magazine of the CPC Central Committee, that the Taiwan issue is related to the sovereign and territorial integrity of China. Current "Taiwan independence" forces and their separatist activities seriously threaten peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and Asia-Pacific region. The U.S. should practically act on its pledge to insist on the "one China" policy, abide by the three Sino-U.S. communiques, and oppose "Taiwan independence". The U.S. should join with China in firmly opposing and deterring "Taiwan independence" in order to maintain overall relations between the two countries and their shared strategic interests.

June 5, 2006
In an address delivered at the Taiwan-USA Industry and Technology Summit Forum, Vice President Annette Lu notes that China has already clearly made public its three-stage preparations for war against Taiwan. China plans to have fully developed contingency warfare ability by 2007; the ability to conduct a large-scale war by 2010; and the ability to conduct a war of decisive victory by 2015. China's acts show that it has made sufficient preparations for military attack against Taiwan. At present, China has deployed 820 missiles aimed at Taiwan, and it plans to increase this number to 1,000 missiles by the end of 2006. The rapid pace of this military build up makes evident Beijing's ambition and intention to attack Taiwan.

June 5, 2006
China's Ministry of Communications decides to open a "green channel" for importing Taiwan's agricultural products. All legal transportation vehicles that comply with relevant regulations and carry fresh agricultural products from Taiwan to sales destinations via Chinese highways will enjoy "green channel" preferential treatment and facilitation measures.

June 6, 2006
Tsai Lien-sheng, director general of the Intellectual Property Office under the Ministry of Economic Affairs, states that trademark registration of the name "Alishan Tea" by a China-based producer will be cancelled. In eight similar trademark registration cases involving the names of well-known tea-producing regions in Taiwan, the legitimate trademark owners are requested to provide ample evidence and reason for demanding cancellation of the China-registered names. The Chinese authorities have promised to complete their review within a year and in most cases the disputed trademarks will be cancelled without problem.

June 6, 2006
China's All-China Federation of Returned Overseas Chinese and Taiwan's Overseas Chinese Association jointly held a "Peace and Development Forum," marking the first official contact between overseas Chinese organizations on both sides of the Taiwan Strait.

June 7, 2006
After his visit to Japan, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu indicates that Taiwan's response to pressuring from China is based on the two principles of "promoting democratic diplomacy" and "not conducting money diplomacy to compete with China."

June 7, 2006
China's Ministry of Commerce will extend anti-dumping investigations on PBT resin imports from Japan and Taiwan until September 6, 2006.

June 7, 2006
China extends to July 4 the registration period for Taiwan residents to take Qualification Examination on Customs Declarers. The date of the exam is set for November 5. However, China's General Customs Administration has not yet announced the regulations governing qualifications, registration method, ID certificates, and educational certificates needed by Taiwan residents to take the exam.

June 8, 2006
In a meeting with Chairman Raymond F. Burghardt of the American Institute in Taiwan, President Chen Shui-bian emphasizes that his position has not changed over the past six years since his inauguration in 2000. He says that so long as China has no intention to use force against Taiwan, there will be no changes to the "four noes" pledges that he made in his 2000 and 2004 inaugural speeches. He says that his pledges will not be altered in the next two years and that it is even more unlikely that there will be changes due to the recent political climate.

June 8, 2006
Fujian Province introduces the "Provisional Regulations on Encouraging and Supporting the Establishment of Cross-strait (Fujian) Agricultural Cooperation Pilot Zones." The Regulations stipulate preferential policy measures for taxes, land, financing and customs clearance to encourage Taiwanese businesses to make agricultural investments in Fujian. The Regulations also state the aim of attracting 500 new agricultural cooperation cases between Taiwan and Fujian by 2010.

June 8, 2006
China's Ministry of Communications introduces "Guiding Opinions on Planning the Development of Land and Sea Transportation Infrastructure on the West Shore of the Taiwan Strait." The opinions boast that a highway could be built from Fuzhou to Taipei, causing the travel time between Fuzhou and Taipei shortened within two hours.

June 9, 2006
Hong Kong's Immigration Department announces that from June 12, 2006
holders of "Mainland Travel Permit for Taiwan Residents" bearing a valid entry/exit endorsement issued by China may also visit Hong Kong and stay for up to seven days, provided they meet the normal immigration requirements.

June 9, 2006
China National Tourism Administration Director Shao Qiwei urges Taiwan to promptly send an authorized civilian orgainzation to China to negotiate on opening up tourism in Taiwan for Chinese tourists.

June 12, 2006
Mao Qunan, spokesman for China's Ministry of Health, states that the increase in cross-strait exchanges has led to increasing numbers of Taiwan residents seeking medical care in China. Medical disputes between Taiwan compatriots and inland hospitals should be resolved according to relevant regulations.

June 14, 2006
In a press release, MAC states that to promote cross-strait negotiations on cargo and passenger charter flights, the authorities on both sides have reached a consensus and agreed to first implement four types of specialized charter flights, including specialized cargo charter flights, institutionalization of holiday passenger charter flights, charter flights for emergency medical treatment, and special humanitarian charter flights for emergency relief and disable (or ill) persons. With regard to follow-up implementation of the four types of specialized charter flights, the MAC will coordinate with the Ministry of Transportation and Communications and other related agencies to promptly draft related operational regulations. The MAC will publicly announce these regulations to facilitate the air carriers' applications once the administrative process has been completed. As to the operations of regular cargo and passenger charter flights, both sides have agreed to actively communicate to achieve concrete results in arrangement. MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that these achievements have been announced with the approval of the governments across the Strait. However, no public announcement will be made regarding the negotiation process, personnel, time, and place due to the content of the tacit understanding. It also will not be possible to publicly explain the differences between both sides over the regular cargo and passenger charter flights or the details and arrangements of the related negotiations.

June 14, 2006
The Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA) invites 18 heads of local farmers' associations in Taiwan and other agricultural industry representatives to meet with China's farm product wholesalers and trading companies at the TAITRA's Beijing representative office to discuss details of procurement of Taiwan fruit and vegetables.

June 14, 2006
Pu Zhaozhou, chairman of China's Straits Aviation Exchange Commission, announces that consensus has been reached on technical and operational issues concerning the implementation of cross-strait holiday passenger charter flights and specialized charter flights. Related arrangements have been made and are to be implemented from today with the permission of the responsible authorities across the Strait.

June 14, 2006
A spokesperson of the Taiwan Affairs Office indicates during an interview that after several negotiations, both sides of the Taiwan Strait have, based on the 2006 Lunar New Year charter flights, reached a consensus on technical and operational issues concerning the implementation of cross-strait holiday passenger charter flights and specialized charter flights. Although related structural arrangements have been made, however, this still does not meet demand. China therefore hopes that the Taiwanese authorities will provide various conveniences for Taiwan's civilian aviation organizations so that they can continue conducting negotiations with their Chinese counterparts.

June 15, 2006
Attending a forum held by the Taiwan Labor Front on current key issues in Taiwan, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that even though cross-strait economic and trade relations have made a notable contribution to economic growth and employment in China, Beijing has neither lessened its military intimidation and threaten against Taiwan, nor stopped pressuring Taiwan diplomatically. Taiwan is facing China's increasingly hard-line and rigid Taiwan policy and nature, as well as the negative impact caused by cross-strait economic and trade exchanges on Taiwan in recent years. As such, "proactive management and effective liberalization" will become the basis of new thinking and action in cross-strait economic and trade policy.

June 15, 2006
Executive Yuan spokesperson Cheng Wen-tsang states that the Taiwanese government will advance step by step under the principles and premise of Taiwan's identity, policy initiative, and governmental leadership to promote cross-strait exchanges in a very stable and responsible manner. The Executive Yuan believes that the government must responsibly plan cross-strait exchange work, and it must also firmly promote the development of various types of exchange. In fact, good progress can be achieved on such issues as charter flights, cargo facilitation, and the opening up of tourism in Taiwan for Chinese tourists if both sides can undertake certain government authorization procedures and hold talks.

June 15, 2006
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Jiang Yu indicates at a press conference that the UN Register of Conventional Arms is an authoritative and transparent mechanism under the UN framework for registering the transfer of conventional weapons among UN member countries. However, individual members have registered their sales of weapons to Taiwan in violation of the purpose and principles of the register. China has therefore decided to temporarily stop submitting data for the register. It will begin submitting data again after the involved countries stop registering their weapon sales to Taiwan.

June 17, 2006
The Cross-Strait Young Leaders Roundtable Conference and signing ceremony for the "Cross-strait Youth Exchange and Cooperation Outlook" were held in Fuzhou. Participants discussed the development direction of the cross-strait forum and the outlook for cross-strait youth cooperation and exchanges.

June 17, 2006
Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao and Egyptian Prime Minster Ahmed Nazef sign a communique under which Egypt's government reaffirms its adherence to the "one China" principle, forbids any official relations with the Taiwanese authorities, opposes "Taiwan independence" in any form, and opposes Taiwan's entry to any international or regional organization open only to sovereign countries.

June 18, 2006
Cargo shipping routes are inaugurated between Shijing Harbor in Quanzhou, Fujian Provinces and Magong Harbor in Penghu. A ceremony for the maiden voyage marked the first direct transportation of cross-strait cargo to Penghu from China.

June 19, 2006
China and Afghanistan issue a joint declaration reiterating Afghanistan's position that there is only one China in the world, that the government of the People's Republic of China is the only legitimate government representing all of China, and that Taiwan is an inseparable part of the territory of China. Afghanistan opposes any attemopts made by the Taiwanese authorities to create "two Chinas" or "one China, one Taiwan," and it opposes any form of "Taiwan independence," including "de jure Taiwan independence."

June 20, 2006
In a "Report to the People," President Chen Shui-bian states that the government upholds four principles in handling cross-strait relations. These four principles are sovereignty, democracy, peace, and parity. The government insists upon these four principles. Taiwan must not be downgraded, marginalized, or localized. Taiwan's government must not be bypassed and its sovereignty must not be denied either. The "four noes" mentioned in 2000 would remain unchanged as long as China has no intention to use force against Taiwan.

June 20, 2006
The MAC raises NT$2.2 million from civilian organizations to continue a subsidy program for Chinese graduate students intending to conduct research in Taiwan. A total of 32 graduate students will be selected to receive the subsidies in 2006.

June 20, 2006
During a visit to the Republic of Congo by Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao, China and Congo issue a joint communique under which Congo's government reaffirms its adherence to the "one China" policy, opposes any form of "Taiwan independence" including "de jure Taiwan independence," opposes Taiwan's entry to any international or regional organization open only to sovereign countries, and forbids all forms of official relations and contact with the Taiwanese authorities.

June 20, 2006
At the Fourth Overseas Chinese Forum Worldwide, Chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference Jia Qinglin states that the broad overseas Chinese business community must actively engage in anti-Taiwan independence and pro-unification activities worldwide, strengthen exchanges with Taiwan compatriots, and jointly promote the development of cross-strait relations and national unification.

June 21, 2006
In a meeting with Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee, MAC Chairman Jaushieh states that the United States and Taiwan share the common values of freedom and democracy. He expresses hope that the U.S. will implement its diplomatic policy based on democracy and freedom and continue urging Beijing to hold dialogue with Taiwan's democratically elected government. Chairman Wu emphasizes that Beijing must understand that the governments across the Strait need to sit down to talk and replace confrontation with communication in order to promote peace and stability across the Strait.

June 21, 2006
During a visit to Angola by Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao, China and Angola issue a joint communique stating the Angolan government's adherence to the "one China" policy, recognition that the government of the People's Republic of China is the only legitimate government representing all of China, and that Taiwan is an inseparable part of the territory of China.

June 21, 2006
At a WTO meeting, China's representative presents an exhaustive list of trade "restrictions" imposed by Taiwan, emphasizing Taiwan's huge trade surplus with China and China's contribution to Taiwan's economy.

June 22, 2006
Taiwan and China held bilateral negotiations on the special defensive (import relief) measures imposed by Taiwan on toweling products from China. It was the first official negotiation between both sides under the WTO framework since the end of 2002.

June 23, 2006
In a meeting with Mohammed A.R. Galadari, owner of the Khaleej Times of the United Arab Emirates, President Chen Shui-bian states that peace, security, and stability in the Taiwan Strait must be founded upon Taiwan's internal political stability. He emphasizes that peaceful development in the Taiwan Strait requires that political negotiations be promoted internally and that cross-strait peace talks be promoted externally.

June 23, 2006
The Immigration Office of the National Police Agency under the Ministry of the Interior states that from July 1, 2006, Chinese professionals intending to visit Taiwan and having applied to enter Taiwan as a group must on the same day enter Taiwan from Hong Kong's Chek Lap Kok Airport or Macau International Airports, where they will get their formal entry permits from Taiwan's offices stationed at the two airports. Failure to do so will be considered dividing the group without any authorization; original entry permits will not be issued to the members of such groups.

June 23, 2006
The heads of 12 airlines across the Strait reached a consensus on two items during a gathering held in Beijing. These were: 1) to make structural arrangements for facilitating the speedy implementation of holiday and specialized charter flights in the present stage; and 2) to further promote weekend and normalized charter flights and facilitation measures for cargo charter flights, and to make continued efforts to promote comprehensive, direct and two-way direct air transportation links across the Strait.

June 23, 2006
The WTO announces the results of its first Trade Policy Review Report of the "Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu" since Taiwan's entry to the trade body. The report underscores the increased importance of cross-strait trade for Taiwan's economy, and notes that the Taiwanese authorities must further relax restrictions on cross-strait transportation to facilitate the growth of cross-strait trade.

June 23, 2006
During a visit to Tanzania by Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao, China and Tanzania issue a joint communique reiterating the Tanzanian government's adherence to the "one China" policy, recognition that the government of the People's Republic of China is the only legitimate government representing all of China, and that Taiwan is an inseparable part of the territory of China. Tanzania believes that the Taiwan issue is a matter of China's internal affairs. It opposes "Taiwan independence," opposes any attempts made by the Taiwanese authorities to create "two Chinas" or "one China, one Taiwan," opposes Taiwan's entry to any international or regional organization open only to sovereign countries, and forbids all forms of official relations and contact with the Taiwanese authorities.

June 24, 2006
China holds its first commercial product promotion fair in Penghu-the Fujian Outstanding Home Goods and Gifts Fair. The fair is held from June 24 to June 26, 2006.

June 24, 2006
During a visit to Uganda by Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao, China and Uganda issue a joint communique reiterating the Ugandan government's adherence to the "one China" policy, recognition that the government of the People's Republic of China is the only legitimate government representing all of China, and that Taiwan is an inseparable part of the territory of China. Uganda opposes any attempts made by the Taiwan authorities aimed at creating "two Chinas" or "one China, one Taiwan." It opposes "Taiwan independence" in any form, opposes Taiwan's entry to any international or regional organization open only to sovereign countries, and forbids all forms of official relations and contact with the Taiwanese authorities. Uganda believes that the Taiwan issue is China's internal affair and that foreign forces have no authority to meddle in it.

June 25, 2006
A shipment of 110 tons of Taiwan-grown bananas arrives at Haitian Wharf in Xiamen.

June 25, 2006
During a gathering attended by the heads of 12 airlines across the Strait, Deputy Director Li Bingcai of the Taiwan Affairs Office states that, "There is an urgent demand among the people of both sides of the Taiwan Strait for the prompt implementation of weekend and regular cross-strait passenger charter flights and cargo charter flight facilitation, and even for comprehensive, direct and two-way direct transportation links across the Strait." He hopes that the Taiwanese authorities can pragamatically and flexibly handle related matters according to the needs of the airline industries and markets of both sides.

June 26, 2006
At its 171st Council Meeting, the MAC issues a report entitled "An Analysis of Fujian Province's Work on Taiwan Youth." The report notes that in recent years China has targeted young students of Taiwan as its most preferred persons that China has sought to attract through exchanges, student recruitment and employment to lay a foundation for its long-term political objectives. With regard to the planned and systematic efforts of China to strengthen its work on Taiwan youth, Taiwan should make an overall consideration of cross-strait youth exchanges to prevent Taiwan youth from China's political contamination as well as to inspire deep thinking to help them establish the correct identity and ideas about exchanges. Moreover, in response to the widening imbalance of cross-strait youth and student exchange, the government should provide more channels and official encouragement for Chinese students to visit Taiwan to participate in exchange activities so as to promote understanding among China's younger generation of Taiwan's academic openness and democratic freedom.

June 26, 2006
The MAC indicates that the Taiwanese government should make use of the favorable conditions of Kinmen and Matsu due to their intermediary position in the Taiwan Strait and special legal provisions granted to them to further improve the educational environment, encourage the children of China-based Taiwanese businesspeople to study on the two islands, and provide a new model of educational options for them. The MAC also suggests that the Taiwanese government study the possibility of allowing the Chinese cadres of Taiwanese companies in Fujian Province to study the continuing education courses in Kinmen to facilitate the development of such companies.

June 26, 2006
The Cross-Strait Industrial Common Market Forum is held from June 26 to 29 in Nanning, Guangxi Province. The forum is aimed at summing up the latest achievements of cross-strait economic and trade cooperation, deepening cross-strait economic and trade exchange and cooperation mechanisms, exploring the conditions for creating a cross-strait industrial common market, enhancing the social functions and economic benefits of cross-strait economic and trade cooperation, as well as further advancing the depth and scale of economic and trade exchange cooperation.

June 27, 2006
Airline operators International SOS and the Deer Jet Co., Ltd., make a joint announcement that the direct cross-strait charter flights for emergency medical rescue services will be implemented.

June 27, 2006
At the Cross-Strait Industrial Common Market Forum, Deputy Director Wang Zaixi of the Taiwan Affairs Office says that the current trend is towards the pursuit of peace, the promotion of development and the planning for cooperation. Peaceful development should become the main theme in the development of cross-strait relations, as well as a common objective sought by compatriots across the Strait. Strengthening cross-strait economic exchanges and cooperation is an important part of achieving the stable development of cross-strait relations.

June 29, 2006
In a meeting with Kenneth Lieberthal, the former US National Security Council Senior Director for Asian Affairs, President Chen Shui-bian states that if peaceful dialogue can be held between both sides across the Strait, it will be in the best interests of Taiwan and is also consistent with the common interests of the U.S. and Japan in the Asian region. Although there is some internal political contention in Taiwan at present, it will not change the Taiwanese government's will and determination to maintain the status quo of cross-strait peace.

June 29, 2006
In a meeting with foreign dignitaries on the occasion of the 10th anniversary of the reorganization of the Central News Agency, President Chen Shui-bian states that China's persecution of human rights and freedom of the press is widely known and in fact notorious. Beijing has stepped up pressure and restrictions on many internationally well-known websites, including Google, Yahoo!, and Microsoft. China has also detained more journalists than any other country. According to "Freedom of the Press 2006: A Global Survey of Media Independence," a study published by the Washington D.C-based Freedom House, China ranked 177th out of more than 190 countries, signifying that China is one of the countries with media that is rated as "not free."

June 29, 2006
The Bureau of Foreign Trade releases cross-strait trade statistics showing that Taiwan's accumulated trade surplus with China in the first four months of 2006 broke through the US$10 billion mark to reach US$12 billion, a historic high compared to the same period in previous years.