Mainland Affairs Council

July 1, 2008
During the inauguration of Shuang Ho Hospital, President Ma Ying-jeou states in an address that in the wake of the opening of the weekend direct charter flights, a major objective of Taiwan will be to integrate medical treatment and tourism in the future. The reduction in cross-strait flight time will bring Taiwan within a one-day commute of many major Mainland cities. This will foster closer bonds of friendship between people on both sides.

July 2, 2008
Presiding over the 2008 Joint Graduation Ceremony of Five Armed Forces Schools, President Ma Ying-jeou states that the evolution of cross-strait relations over the past more than 20 years have let us understand that mainland China is simultaneously a threat and an opportunity.

July 2, 2008
During a tea reception with the international media, Premier Liu Chao-shiuan states that the opening of cross-strait direct transportation links is a part of economic policy and aimed basically at facilitating transportation, commerce, and travel.

July 2, 2008
In conjunction with the government's policy of cross-strait direct transportation links, the Taipei Customs Office on July 1 officially dispatches personnel to its Songshan Airport office. On July 4, the office will officially begin providing immigration and customs counter services for passengers at the airport.

July 2, 2008
The All-China Federation of Taiwan Compatriots kicks off the 2008 (5th) Taiwan Compatriot Thousand Youth Summer Camp in 21 provinces, regions and cities in China, including Beijing, Shanghai, Tianjin, Chongqing, Heilongjiang, Liaoning, Hebei, Shanxi, Inner Mongolia, Shandong, and Jiangsu.

July 2, 2008
Chen Yunlin!Achairman of the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS) confirms that he will lead a delegation to visit Taiwan before the end of this year. The date has not yet been determined, but the Straits Exchange Foundation and the ARATS are conducting consultations to finalize the date and itinerary.

July 3, 2008
In a meeting with the Permanent Representatives to the United Nations from Solomon Islands, Honduras, Nauru, and Dominican Republic, President Ma Ying-jeou states that since his inauguration, he has promoted cross-strait policies that are different from those of the previous administration. He says that the hope is to ease tensions on many fronts in the Taiwan Strait and to improve relations with mainland China. The president says that another important consideration in promoting cross-strait relations is to enable Taiwan to no longer be an orphan in the international community.

July 3, 2008
The MAC issues a press release stating that an Executive Yuan session passed the Program on Relaxing the Visit to the Mainland Area by City Mayors and County Magistrates for Exchanges. The scope of reasons under which mayors and magistrates can apply to travel to the Mainland was originally restricted to participation in the meetings or activities of international organizations. Under the new program, the scope of the reasons for the Mainland-bound visits is expanded to include participation in exchange activities or meetings related to county or city government affairs. The program will also shorten the application review time to one week before the departure date. Applicants can directly apply to the Ministry of the Interior, which will conduct such reviews.

July 3, 2008
The National Immigration Agency under the Ministry of the Interior announces the results of a review regarding the first group of Mainland tourists applying to visit Taiwan. It states that 752 Mainland tourists will be approved to visit Taiwan.

July 3, 2008
During a meeting with a visiting delegation of Japan Self-Defense Forces, Central Military Commission Vice Chairman Xu Caihou states that hostilities remain in cross-strait relations and mainland China will not yet reduce its military deployment against Taiwan.

July 4, 2008
The Xinhua News Agency and the People's Daily re-station their reporters in Taiwan. Four correspondents from the two media agencies arrive in Taiwan to cover news events for three months.

July 7, 2008
The Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS) and Taiwan-based "Foundation for the Promotion of China's Modernization" jointly hold the 13th "Cross-Strait Academic Symposium on China's Modernization" in Taipei. ARATS Vice Chairman Wang Zaixi arrives in Taiwan on July 6 to attend the symposium and present the opening address.

July 9, 2008
MAC Deputy Minister Chang Liang-jen states that the Olympic committees of the two sides of the Taiwan Strait reached a consensus in 1989 on the use of "Chinese Taipei" as the name for Taiwan's participation in the Olympic Games. "Chinese Taipei" has been used for many years and cannot be changed this year just because Beijing is hosting the Olympic Games. Such an approach would be "extremely inappropriate" and diverge widely from Taiwan's understanding. The government is firmly opposed to it.

July 9, 2008
The 2008 Symposium on Cross-Strait Relations is held in Hangzhou on July 9 to 10. In an opening address, Wang Yi, director of mainland China's Taiwan Affairs Office under the State Council, states that creating a new era for peaceful development of cross-strait relations requires an earnest summary of historical experience. The two sides should give full play to their political wisdom and actively explore new paths and new methods for strengthening cross-strait exchanges and cooperation.

July 10, 2008
Premier Liu Chao-shiuan instructs the Ministry of Transportation and Communications and other related ministries and departments to actively promote the policies of opening up cross-strait weekend charter flights and Mainland tourist visits to Taiwan. He requests the involved agencies to review related operation procedures, including the hardware and software facilities for customs, immigration, quarantine and security (CIQS) operations and personnel deployment, to see if there is room for improvement and provide even better cross-strait transportation and tourist services.

July 10, 2008
During a meeting with US President George Bush in Japan, mainland Chinese President Hu Jintao states that mainland China will not change its position of adhering to the "one China" principle and opposing the "Taiwan independence" separatist activities. Mainland China praises the US government for reiterating its policy of sticking to the "one China" policy, abiding by the three Sino-US Joint Communiques, and opposing "Taiwan independence." It hopes that the US side will continue to strictly abide by these pledges and support the peaceful development of cross-strait relations.

July 15, 2008
Mainland China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Liu Jianchao states at a regular press conference that the "one China" principle will not change regardless of how the situation in the Taiwan Strait develops. Mainland China is steadfastly opposed to any form of official contact between the United States and the Taiwan authorities.

July 15, 2008
The China National Tourism Administration (CNTA) issues a "Contract of Mainland Residents' Travel to the Taiwan Area (Model Text)" as a guideline for contracts signed between travel agencies designated to provide Taiwan travel services and groups of Mainland travelers visiting the Taiwan Area.

July 16, 2008
In a reception with representatives of the National Association of Small and Medium Enterprises, ROC, President Ma Ying-jeou states that the new government's promotion of cross-strait weekend charter flights and Mainland tourist visits to Taiwan is only the first step. In the future, the negotiation agenda can gradually include issues of deep concern to the two sides, including shortest-distance direct flights, direct shipping, cargo charter flights, investment protection, avoidance of double taxation, cross-strait technical specification agreements, and even dispute resolution mechanisms.

July 16, 2008
In a reception with a visiting delegation of the World Taiwanese Chambers of Commerce, President Ma Ying-jeou states that the government's purpose in promoting cross-strait direct transportation links and raising the ceiling on mainland China-bound investments is to support Taiwan's development. Such policies, he says, will encourage Mainland-based Taiwanese enterprises to invest back in Taiwan. The convenience arising from cross-strait direct transportation links will also enable Taiwanese businessmen to have more space for business development.

July 17, 2008
On the issue of "Deeply Cultivating Taiwan and Linking with the World: Plan for Lifting the Ceiling on Mainland-bound Investment and Facilitating Investment Review," Premier Liu Chao-shiuan indicates that pragmatic promotion of cross-strait economic and trade relations is the key to Taiwan's further economic upgrading in a globally connected environment. Lifting the ceiling on Mainland-bound investments is an important link in dynamically adjusting cross-strait economic and trade relations. The elimination of the restrictions on the amount of Mainland-bound investments by the Taiwan subsidiaries of transnational enterprises can upgrade Taiwan's position in the international and Asian regional economic and trade systems.

July 17, 2008
During a meeting with Mainland spouses, MAC Minister Lai Shin-yuan states that the government will in the future follow three principles to deal wth the rights and interests of Mainland spouses. The first is to facilitate entry to Taiwan by Mainland spouses that are genuinely married. The second is to strictly stop fake marriages and human trafficking. The third is to further protect the basic living rights of married couples in Taiwan, including working rights and other social rights.

July 18, 2008
Tourist visits to Taiwan by the people of the Mainland Area are normalized on July 18.

July 18, 2008
Mainland China's Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait sends a letter to Taiwan's Straits Exchange Foundation expressing condolences to counties and cities in Taiwan struck by typhoon.

July 19, 2008
In an interview with the US-based Cable News Network (CNN), President Ma Ying-jeou states that the opening of cross-strait direct flights is a major historic event. This is only a first step. Taiwan still hopes to hold talks with the other side on the issues of Taiwan's participation in international communities and a peace agreement.

July 21, 2008
The MAC issues a press release stating that the new government has always adhered to the basic principles of "putting Taiwan first for the benefit of the people" in its cross-strait policy. The government also has pragmatically and actively faced new developments in cross-strait relations. The objective of relaxing cross-strait policy is to strengthen Taiwan's links with the world, upgrade Taiwan's international visibility, and thereby highlight Taiwan-centric identity and advance the welfare of Taiwan's 23 million people.

July 22, 2008
The MAC opens up the conversion between renminbi (RMB) and New Taiwan dollars in Taiwan. As of July 15, a total of 1,570 main offices and branches of 19 banks were approved to provide RMB purchase and sale services.

July 23, 2008
While attending a business breakfast meeting arranged by the Chinese National Association of Industry and Commerce (CNAIC), Premier Liu Chao-shiuan states that the government will relax 67 laws and regulations by the end of this year and promote relaxation in 142 areas next year. Focal work in these areas will include easing cross-strait economic and trade laws and regulations. Other deregulation measures include opening up cross-strait cargo charter flights, allowing Mainland-bound investment in the securities and futures industries, and permitting mainland investment in Taiwanese manufacturing industries.

July 23, 2008
Regarding the name used by the Taiwan delegation at the Beijing Olympic Games, a spokesperson of the Taiwan Affairs Office under mainland China's State Council, states that in 1989, the heads of the Olympic committees on the two sides signed an agreement in Hong Kong clearly stipulating the executive units and scope of the use of the translation "Chinese Taipei" in the Mainland. Since then, the Mainland side has consistently followed the Hong Kong agreement by using "Chinese Taipei" within the scope stipulated by the agreement. For areas outside the stipulated scope, mainland China continues to use the translation "China Taipei."

July 23, 2008
Mainland China's "17th Seminar on Cross-strait Relations" opens in Changchun City, Jilin Province, under the theme of "Prospects for Peaceful Development of Cross-strait Relations." The seminar is joined by nearly 100 experts and scholars from mainland China, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macao and other countries.

July 24, 2008
In a reception with visitors from the Federation of Chinese Associations in Japan, President Ma Ying-jeou states that the Republic of China (ROC) hopes to be a "peacemaker." It will not unilaterally change the status quo of the ROC under the current constitutional framework. This is consistent with the position of "no unification, no independence, and no use of force" in cross-strait relations as emphasized in President Ma's inaugural address. During President Ma's administration, the government will not discuss with the Mainland regarding the issue of unification; it will not support de jure Taiwan independence; and it will oppose the use of force to resolve cross-strait issues.

July 24, 2008
The MAC issues a press release regarding a statement by the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council that China is willing to abide by the agreement signed between the Olympic committees of the two sides in 1989. The MAC indicates that in order to demonstrate the ROC side's sincerity in actively creating harmony and establishing the necessary consensus and order in cross-strait relations, the government has proposed that the two sides exchange views and further communicate with each other on the basis of the 1989 agreement so as to seek a consensus on a suitable solution to this issue.

July 28, 2008
According to news reports by the China News Service (CNS) at an April 17 meeting in Zurich, Switzerland, the International Textile Manufacturers Federation (ITMF) Committee of Management passed a motion on "the China National Textile And Apparel Council (CNTAC) becoming the sole national representative of China and the need to suitably resolve the new position of the China Taiwan Textile Federation (TTF)." This motion changes the position of the TTF in the ITMF from member to associate member. The TTF shall also use the name of "China Taipei" or "China Taiwan" for any references to the Taiwan Area in ITMF activities and documents.

July 29, 2008
During a visit to the MAC, President Ma Ying-jeou states that the government will gradually promote opening-up measures toward the mainland China. However, this does not mean that the government is encouraging Taiwanese businessmen to invest in the Mainland. Rather, it is aimed at linking Taiwan with the world in the process of internationalization. The most important point is to fill an existing gap and provide a freer, more convenient environment for foreign and domestic enterprises to develop in Taiwan.

July 29, 2008
According to statistics released by the Bureau of Foreign Trade!AMinistry of Economic Affairs, from January to May 2008, Taiwan's total trade with mainland China amounted to US$46.39 billion, accounting for 21.7% of Taiwan's total external trade. Imports amounted to US$13.21 billion, or 12.7% of Taiwan's total import, netting Taiwan a US$19.96 billion trade surplus, up 20.8% from the same period a year before.

July 30, 2008
During a flag presentation ceremony for the ROC delegation to the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, President Ma Ying-jeou states that the two sides of the Taiwan Strait can embrace the spirit of "shelving controversies and jointly creating a win-win solution." This would enable a successful conclusion, after a long and winding path, to an incident that nearly derailed the ROC team's participation in the Beijing Olympic Games.

July 31, 2008
An Executive Yuan session approves the "Plan on Easing Restrictions on Overseas Enterprises Listing in Taiwan and Appropriately Lifting Restrictions to Allow Mainland Capital to Invest in the Domestic Stock Market" promulgated by the Financial Supervisory Commission. In addition to easing restrictions on the qualifications required for overseas enterprises to list and to raise capital in Taiwan, the plan will ease restrictions on investment in Taiwan's securities and future industry by Mainland institutional investors.

July 31, 2008
Wang Yi, director of mainland China's State Council's Taiwan Affairs Office, states at the second "Joint Working Conference on Protecting the Rights and Interests of Taiwanese Businesspeople" that Taiwan's adjustment of policy on cross-strait personnel contacts, finance, investment and other areas to ease some past restrictions is beneficial to the active engagement in cross-strait exchanges and cooperation. In the new era of cross-strait relations, the Mainland side will adopt practical measures and work to strengthen cross-strait exchanges and economic cooperation, support consultations between the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait and Straits Exchange Foundation, and promote progress on direct cross-strait "Three Links."

July 31, 2008
In a speech at the reception in honor of the 81st anniversary of China's People's Liberation Army, member of the CPC Central Military Commission, State Councilor and concurrently Minister of National Defense Liang Guanglie states that due to positive developments in Taiwan, the development of cross-strait relations is facing a rare historic opportunity. However, the "Taiwan independence" separatist have not abandoned attempts to seek "Taiwan independence" and have not stopped "Taiwan independence" activities.

August 1, 2008
In a meeting with Mr. Stephen Waters, the outgoing representative of the Australian Commerce and Industry Office, President Ma Ying-jeou states that cross-strait relations cannot smoothly develop if Taiwan continues to be internationally isolated. At the same time, the two sides should cooperate, show mutual respect in the international arena, and not unnecessarily waste resources by engaging in meaningless vicious competition. The only way to fundamentally resolve the meaningless vicious competition between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait in the international arena is not only through the adoption of diplomatic methods, but also by addressing the state of cross-strait relations.

August 4, 2008
During an inspection visit to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, President Ma Ying-jeou states that the basic idea of "flexible diplomacy" is to find a way forward for the diplomacy of the Republic of China. The specific approach involves finding a model within cross-strait relations for interaction between the two sides in the international community. He expresses hope that "reconciliation and truce" can be achieved in cross-strait relations and that the two sides can stop wasting resources by trying to woo away the diplomatic allies of the other side. If the two sides believe they should "shelve controversies, finding commonalities despite differences, seek common ground, face reality, and create together a win-win solution," they should have an opportunity to reach some consensus in the international arena.

August 5, 2008
The Civil Aeronautics Administration of the Ministry of Transportation and Communications states that a total of 144 cross-strait weekend charter flights were implemented from the time of the launch of such flights in July 4, 2008, to the end of July 2008 (four weekends). On the Taiwan side, Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport handled the largest number of flights (71), followed by Songshan Airport (61), and Kaohsiung Airport (six). As for Mainland flight points, Shanghai Pudong Airport handled the most flights (70), followed by Guangzhou Airport (31).

August 5, 2008
China holds the Fourth Cross-Strait Travel Fair in Xiamen from September 6 to 11 under the theme of "Cross-Strait Travel, Win-Win Cooperation."

August 6, 2008
Over 7,000 passengers underwent entry-exit inspection and quarantine on the Mawei-Matsu sea route in July, setting a new monthly record.

August 7, 2008
Chang Liang-jen, convener of the Emergency Response Task Force for the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games and MAC Deputy Minister, issues a three-point statement on the Beijing Olympic Games. In it he states that the people of Taiwan place great importance on the issue of Taiwan's international space. Everyone hopes that Taiwan can participate in the international community and expand its international space. Taiwan must vigorously seek out any opportunities to participate in the international arena. Participating in the Olympic Games is a manifestation of Taiwan's international space and participation, so Taiwan athletes will absolutely make every effort to participate in this kind of major international event. The ROC government hopes that the Beijing Olympic Games can be held smoothly and come to an end successfully. It also hopes that the public can show more concern about the performance of Taiwan athletes and root for them, to prevent political turmoil from affecting the results to be achieved after many years of hard training. The government hopes that the athletes will create good achievements and bring home the gold. However, a good achievement is the best force in expanding Taiwan's international space.

August 8, 2008
During a meeting with Kuomintang (KMT) Honorary Chairman Lien Chan, mainland Chinese President Hu Jintao expresses hope that the two sides of the Taiwan Strait can vigorously strengthen exchanges and cooperation in various fields and continue to promote peaceful development of cross-strait relations. In a meeting with KMT Chairman Wu Poh-hsiung, Hu states that, based on the "1992 Consensus" cross-strait negotiations have been resumed and have achieved excellent results. The two sides should continue to work together in the spirit of "building mutual trust, shelving controversies, finding commonalities despite differences, and creating together a win-win solution." The KMT and the Communist Party of China should continue to follow and actually implement "a common vision for peaceful development across the Taiwan Strait" and create a new era for the peaceful development of cross-strait relations. In a meeting with People First Party Chairman James Soong, Hu emphasizes the hope that the two sides will actively face the future and work hard to strengthen cross-strait exchanges and cooperation.

August 10, 2008
In a meeting with US President George Bush, mainland Chinese President Hu Jintao emphasizes that under new circumstances, the mainland Chinese government will continue to push for the peaceful development of the cross-strait relations, as well as promote cross-strait personnel, economic and cultural exchanges and cooperation. Regardless of what changes will take place in cross-strait relations, Beijing's position of adhering to the "one China" principle and opposing 'Taiwan independence' secessionist activities will never change and cannot be changed." Hu adds that mainland China hopes to see Washington properly handle the Taiwan question and support such peaceful development.

August 12, 2008
Premier Liu Chao-shiuan states that the government places considerable importance on the many violations of regulations and law by mainland Chinese visitors to Taiwan, as reported by the Ministry of the Interior (MOI). He instructs the MAC and the MOI to pay special attention to this matter and, if the need for legal or regulatory revisions arises, coordinate with other ministries to provide suggestions for inclusion in discussions through the cross-strait negotiation mechanism.

August 13, 2008
The MAC announces that, effective from today, the itineraries of Mainland tourists visiting Taiwan may include up to one and a half days of medical or cosmetic treatment. Tour members who do not wish to participate in such treatments will be free to engage in other tourist activities.

August 15, 2008
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) issues a press release stating that the specialized agencies of the United Nations (UN) form the most important platform for countries to jointly deal with global issues. In keeping with the principle of universality of UN membership, these UN institutions should allow all members of the international community to participate. Therefore, the ROC government sincerely calls on the international community to support Taiwan's international participation, and it urges the Mainland side to be aware of the thinking and aspirations of the 23 million people of Taiwan and to make a goodwill and flexible response to Taiwan's efforts to seek participation in the UN specialized agencies.

August 20, 2008
According to statistics from the Investment Commission under the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA), 26 mainland China-bound investments valued at US$387.645 million were approved in July 2008.

August 22, 2008
The MAC states that as of August 22, various sectors in Taiwan had donated over NT$1 billion for earthquake relief in Sichuan Province, China. Through the Straits Exchange Foundation, the government continues to express its willingness to assist in disaster relief and reconstruction work.

August 22, 2008
Straits Exchange Foundation Chairman Chiang Pin-kung states that the emphasis of next year's cross-strait negotiations will be placed on economic and trade issues, including the issue of establishing a mechanism for cross-strait banking supervision and management cooperation.

August 23, 2008
Speaking at the annual meeting of the Taiwan Benevolent Association of America (TBAA) in Chicago, MAC Minister Lai Shin-yuan indicates that progress has been made in the government's policy on improving cross-strait relations over the past three months. Both sides have shown goodwill in improving relations. This is a historic stride and an opportunity that both sides must seize to promote stability and peace across the Taiwan Strait.

August 24, 2008
President Ma Ying-jeou delivers a speech in Kinmen emphasizing that the era of conflict has come to an end and the age of reconciliation and co-prosperity has arrived. Reconciliation and truce across the Taiwan Strait will enable Kinmen to transform from a bloody cross-strait battlefield of the 20th century into a peace square for the Taiwan Strait in the 21st century. After the full normalization of the "Mini-Three-Links," Kinmen and Xiamen will become a joint living circle. By the end of this year, the government will complete assessment of building a bridge between Kinmen and Xiamen. In the future, Kinmen and Xiamen will be portals for cross-strait reconciliation, peace and cooperation.

August 24, 2008
MAC Spokesperson Johnnason Liu states that in Kinmen, President Ma Ying-jeou clearly indicates that he hopes that an agreement with Beijing on expanding the "Mini-Three-Links" can be reached promptly. This would enable mainlanders residing outside of Fujian to visit the Kinmen and Matsu areas for sightseeing via the "Mini-Three-Links" route. This issue will also be included as one of the objectives of this year's communications between the Straits Exchange Foundation and the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait.

August 25, 2008
The MAC issues a press release indicating that with regard to the policy direction proposed by President Ma Ying-jeou on offering landing permits or multiple-entry permits for mainland Chinese people traveling to Kinmen and Matsu for sightseeing (the Mainland side currently issues landing permits to ROC visitors in 11cities), the main consideration lies in promoting cross-strait relations based on the principles of equality and mutual benefit. The policy aims to attract more Mainland tourists to Kinmen and Matsu and reduce the impact of cross-strait direct transportation links on the "Mini-Three-Links" in Kinmen and Matsu. The landing permits cannot be used for transit from Kinmen and Matsu to Taiwan proper. In the future, Mainland travelers must still gain permission from the National Immigration Agency under the Ministry of the Interior and be reviewed by other related agencies in order to qualify for landing permits. The review process will just be more streamlined and faster. This limited experimental measure will facilitate travel to Taiwan by Mainland visitors and fully consider national security concerns.

August 25, 2008
The Executive Yuan approves revisions to the "Permit Regulations Governing Investment and Technical Cooperation in the Mainland Area" and the "Principles for Review of Investment or Technical Cooperation in the Mainland Area."

August 26, 2008
MAC Deputy Minister Fu Don-cheng indicates that the "Mini-Three-Links" will be normalized in Penghu before cross-strait direct sea transportation links are implemented.

August 27, 2008
In an exclusive interview with Global Views Monthly magazine, President Ma Ying-jeou states that the opening of cross-strait education can improve mutual understanding among young people on both two sides of the Taiwan Strait. It is also conducive to future cross-strait peace and can help Taiwan resolve the issue of student enrollment shortfalls.

August 27, 2008
During a meeting with American professor Dr. Robert Sutter, a participant in the 37th Taiwan-American Conference on Contemporary China, President Ma Ying-jeou states that the new government has aired the concept of a truce in the diplomatic arena. It hopes that reconciliation can be seen in Taiwan's international relations, just like reconciliation in the cross-strait relationship. This would enable both sides to avoid having to engage in vicious competition in the international community to seek diplomatic allies.

August 27, 2008
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs issues a press release indicating that the claim by China's United Nations (UN) ambassador Wang Guangya that the memorandum of understanding signed in 2005 between mainland China and the World Health Organization (WHO) Secretariat facilitates the participation of Taiwan's medical and health experts in technical meetings and activities of the WHO is not accurate. In fact, Taiwan is unable to fully participate in WHO meetings and activities and unable to establish direct contact and interactions with the WHO, a situation that falls short of the expectations of the ROC side.

August 27, 2008
During a reception for Taiwanese businesspeople, Wang Yi, director of the Taiwan Affairs Office under mainland China's State Council, states that cross-strait economic and trade cooperation has major significance for the peaceful development of cross-strait relations. He expresses hope that, through joint efforts the two sides can realize two-way, direct and comprehensive Three Links, "normalize cross-strait economic relations, and directly establish a mechanism for cross-strait economic cooperation."

August 28, 2008
MAC Deputy Minister Johnnason Liu states that if both sides of the Taiwan Strait are able to jointly participate in international activities and international organizations, then this will be conducive to the establishment of mutual trust and the shelving of controversies, and would thereby further minimize misunderstandings. Moreover, the MAC hopes that both sides of the Strait can carry out mutual assistance and cooperation and respect each other in international organizations and activities so that the two sides can contribute more to the international community and cross-strait relations can develop peacefully.

August 28, 2008
The MAC releases the results of its latest public opinion survey. According to the survey, the majority of the Taiwan people believe that cross-strait relations have become more stable since the new government came into office. The survey results also indicated that over half of the public (50.6%) have confidence in the government's ability to maintain cross-strait peace and stability; and over half of the public (52.2%) believe that cross-strait relations have eased up as compared to a year ago. Regarding the arrangements for cross-strait negotiations, the survey indicated that 73% of the public agree that economic issues should be handled first and political issues should be discussed later; and regarding the importance of "emphasizing parity and dignity" and "seeking substantive benefits" in cross-strait negotiations, 51.6% of the people believe that both are equally important.

August 28, 2008
During a meeting with business representatives from Taiwan, mainland Chinese Vice Premier Wang Qishan indicates that since this year both sides have resumed cross-strait negotiations based on the "1992 Consensus." Under the principle of "building mutual trust, shelving controversies, finding commonalities despite differences, and creating together a win-win solution," the two sides have smoothly implemented cross-strait weekend charter flights and the visit to Taiwan by Mainland residents. The economic integration of both sides across the Strait is steadily deepening and economic exchanges and cooperation are constantly expanding. The two sides should continue to strengthen economic and cultural exchanges, expand areas of cooperation, raise the level of cooperation, and realize direct "Three Links" as soon as possible.

August 28, 2008
Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Qin Gang states at a press conference that the United Nations (UN) and its specialized agencies are intergovernmental organizations whose membership is open only for sovereign states. There is only one China in the world and Taiwan is part of China. The so-called proposal on "Taiwan's participation in the UN specialized agencies" submitted by a handful of countries including Nauru and Gambia is an attempt to create "two Chinas" or "one China, one Taiwan." It infringes upon China's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and intervenes in China's domestic affairs, which will be firmly opposed by the Chinese government and people.

August 30, 2008
Li Weiyi, director of the Information Bureau of the Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) under mainland China's State Council, states that applications for sending reporters to be stationed in Taiwan have been received from local media organizations. The TAO will determine which media organizations may station reporters in Taiwan based on various conditions, areas, and circumstances.

August 31, 2008
August 31, 2008
A sea/air joint transportation wharf officially opens in Wutong, Xiamen Province, adding a second sea route for passenger ships traveling between Xiamen and Kinmen.

September 1, 2008
The MAC issues a press release indicating that MAC Minister Lai Shin-yuan stated during a meeting with a delegation led by Prof. Masafumi Sakai, dean of the Graduate School of Law at Japan's Heisei International University, that the Mainland policy thinking of the new government is to improve cross-strait relations through pragmatic exchanges, and thereby achieve stability in the Taiwan Strait and peace in the East Asia region.

September 1, 2008
Mainland China's Guangdong Province establishes the Agricultural Committee of the Cross-Strait Exchange Promotion Council to promote agricultural exchanges and cooperation between Taiwan and mainland China's Guangdong Province.

September 2, 2008
While attending a commendation ceremony concerning "All-out Defense Education Day," President Ma Ying-jeou emphasizes that the Mainland military still has over 1,000 missiles aimed at Taiwan, constituting a considerable threat to Taiwan's security. Therefore, in facing up to this threat, the ROC armed forces have no reason to relax defense preparations. There are both risks and opportunities in cross-strait relations. Taiwan must strive to minimize the threats and maximize the opportunities.

September 2, 2008
The MAC issues a press release indicating that at a tea party held for local and foreign media, Minister Lai Shin-yuan stated that the U.S. has expressed understanding and support for Taiwan's "expansion of international space" and "meaningful participation in international affairs."

September 2, 2008
The Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) sends a formal letter to the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS) stating that the NT$1.2 billion donation from various sectors in Taiwan is designated for use in rebuilding communities and schools in areas devastated by the Sichuan earthquake.

September 3, 2008
The MAC issues a press release stating that key work following the normalization of the "Mini Three-Links" includes: (1) Appropriately opening the "Mini Three-Links" channel for cross-strait travel by mainland Chinese people; (2) Further facilitating personnel travel, trade and shipping contacts, especially by accelerating efforts to streamline and improve the timeliness of administrative procedures, so as to respond to the gradual formation of a living circle encompassing the Kinmen and Matsu areas and Xiamen, Mawei and Fuzhou on the Mainland side; and (3) Normalizing the "Mini Three-Links" in the Penghu area.

September 3, 2008
During an interview with Organizacion Editorial Mexicana Chairman Mario Vazquez Rana, President Ma Ying-jeou states that cross-strait policy can be described as "three noes" and "three wants." The "three noes" are "no unification, no independence, and no use of force." "No unification" means that Taiwan will not discuss the issue of cross-strait unification with the Mainland side. "No independence" means that Taiwan will not seek de jure independence. And "no use of force" refers to opposition to the use of force to resolve the Taiwan issue.

September 3, 2008
During a meeting with representatives of small and medium-sized enterprises, Premier Liu Chao-shiuan states that the government has formulated a strategy for cross-strait peace with a view to putting into practice President Ma's political views of "shelving controversies and creating a win-win solution." Premier Liu expressed confidence that the launch of cross-strait weekend charter flights and a series of other measures would bring about cross-strait peace.

September 3, 2008
In a meeting with German Parliamentarian Mr. Wilhelm Josef Sebastian, MAC Minister Lai Shin-yuan states that improving cross-strait relations and expanding Taiwan's international space are of equal importance to the government. The main objective of the government's Mainland policy is to seek peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and in the region. If the Mainland continues to suppress Taiwan internationally, it will have a negative impact on the gradual warming of cross-strait relations. The various measures adopted by the new administration to ease restrictions on cross-strait economic and trade relations are aimed at forging international linkages, creating a sound domestic investment environment, encouraging Mainland-based Taiwanese businesses to return to Taiwan, and spurring Taiwan's economic development. Therefore, it would be a misinterpretation to say that the new government's policy is tilted too much toward the Mainland.

September 3, 2008
In order to clarify a media report on "NT$1.2 billion donation for Sichuan earthquake relief stuck in Taiwan, " the MAC issues a press release indicating that through several correspondences between the SEF and the ARATS, the two sides determined that the funds donated by Taiwan would be used mainly for long-term post-disaster reconstruction. The main consideration of the government in its utilization of the Sichuan earthquake donation funds is the overall implementation plan of the reconstruction work. The fund utilization must be suitably arranged through the liaison platform between the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) and the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS) to win the trust of the donors and all sectors of society.

September 3, 2008
The Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS) sends a reply letter to the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) thanking various sectors in Taiwan for the large donation to support reconstruction in the Sichuan earthquake disaster area.

September 3, 2008
Mainland China's Ministry of Agriculture and Fujian Province sign a Cooperation Agreement for the Joint Promotion of Modern Agricultural Development on the Western Coast of the Taiwan Strait. The agreement aims to support and promote agricultural exchanges and cooperation across the Strait.

September 4, 2008
The MAC issues a press release indicating that Minister Lai Shin-yuan emphasized during an interview with Yazhou Zhoukan that since the new administration came into office, cross-strait interactions have not been principally conducted between the governments of the two sides, but rather include the people of the two sides. The scope of cross-strait interactions also is no longer limited to contact between the two sides, but rather involves comprehensive interactions. Therefore, the two sides should engage in more communication to find solutions. They should also empathize with each other to build interaction and consensus, and thereby reduce confrontation and misunderstanding.

September 4, 2008
The Executive Yuan passes the "Program for Normalization of the 'Mini-Three-Links'." Presented by the MAC, the program will further ease restrictions on personnel and trade exchanges as well as shipping links across the Strait via the "Mini Three-Links." Related policy adjustment measures will be completed by September 30 this year and submitted for implementation. It is anticipated that the regularized "Mini Three-Links" will be implemented in Penghu from mid-October.

September 4, 2008
The Ministry of Economic Affairs invites various units to discuss the establishment of a task force to assist Taiwanese businesspeople through closer interaction with mainland chapters of the Taiwanese Businessmen's Association.

September 5, 2008
The MAC Chinese Development Fund and the Ministry of Education jointly hold the "2008 Beach Cleaning Activity Participated in by Taiwan, Hong Kong and Mainland China University Students."

September 5, 2008
A total of 228 travel operators in the Taiwan Area participate in the "Fourth Cross-Strait Travel Fair" held in Xiamen. The first-time participants include the delegations respectively formed by the tourism bureaus of Taipei County, Tainan City, Nantou County and Changhua County.

September 5, 2008
A total of eight airlines on the two sides of the Taiwan Strait offered 16 round-trip charter flights from Shanghai, Xiamen and Taipei during the Mid-Autumn Festival period.

September 6-7, 2008
The Second Cross-Strait University Presidents Forum is held in Xiamen. Nearly 200 presidents and vice presidents of over 90 universities on the two sides attend. The forum also issues a joint "Declaration of the Second Cross-Strait University Presidents Forum."

September 7, 2008
The Shuzhuang Garden on Gulang Island, Xiamen and the Lin Family Garden in Taipei County signed an exchange and cooperation agreement at the "Round Table Meeting of the Fourth Cross-Strait Travel Fair" in Xiamen.

September 7, 2008
At the opening ceremony for the "Third Forum on the Economic Zone on the Western Coast of the Taiwan Strait" in Xiamen, Wang Yi, director of mainland China's Taiwan Affairs Office, announces five new policy measures: 1) All Mainland residents with a valid permit and visa to travel to and from Taiwan will be able to travel from the Mainland to Taiwan via Kinmen, Matsu, and Penghu; 2) Residents of 13 provinces and cities in the Mainland will first be allowed to travel to Taiwan, including travel to Kinmen, Matsu, and Penghu and travel to Taiwan via Kinmen, Matsu, and Penghu; 3) China will adjust the number arrangement rules for current five-year Mainland Travel Permits for Taiwan Residents effective from September 25 this year, under which each person will be assigned a single certificate number for life; 4) From October 20 this year, six additional ports of entry in Beijing, Nanjing, Chongqing, Hangzhou, Guilin, and Shenzhen will be able to issue Mainland Travel Permits for Taiwan Residents; and 5) From October 20 this year, the immigration departments of public security agencies in the cities of Beijing, Tianjin and Chongqing as well as Zhejiang Province will be able to replace or exchange five-year Mainland Travel Permits for Taiwan Residents.

September 7, 2008
The "Third Forum on the Economic Zone on the Western Coast of the Taiwan Strait" convenes in Xiamen, China under the theme of "Cooperation and Development for the Construction of the Economic Zone on the Western Coast of the Taiwan Strait."

September 8, 2008
Mainland China's Vice Minister of Commerce Jiang Zengwei states that the Mainland is willing, under the premise of consistent bilateral coordination, to promote participation by capable enterprises in the "I-Taiwan 12 Projects."

September 9, 2008
MAC Deputy Minister Fu Don-cheng states that the timing and method of sending Mainland pandas to Taiwan need to be negotiated between the two sides. However, it is not yet clear if negotiations will be handled between the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) and the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS) or between the Council of Agriculture and Taipei Zoo. Although negotiations will be required before the pandas can come to Taiwan, the two sides will not necessarily have to sign an agreement.

September 10, 2008
During an inspection visit to Dongsha Island, President Ma Ying-jeou states that the main objective in improving cross-strait relations is to reduce tensions in the Taiwan Strait and achieve peace in the Strait. The government seeks on the one hand to deepen understanding in neighboring countries of the role played by Taiwan in regional peace; and on the other hand to eliminate unnecessary tensions in cross-strait exchanges. All of the policies promoted by the new government are based on the principle of "putting Taiwan first for the benefit of the people." As it promotes cross-strait relations, the government absolutely will not relax any defense preparations, nor will the promotion of "cross-strait reconciliation and diplomatic truce" lead it to slacken efforts to consolidate substantive relations with diplomatic allies and upgrade such ties with countries that do not have diplomatic ties with Taiwan.

September 10, 2008
Attending a seminar on "Creating a Win-win Solution: Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macao Exchanges and Development," MAC Minister Lai Shin-yuan delivers a speech stating that since the new administration came into office on May 20 this year, Taiwan's relations with Hong Kong and Macao have steadily warmed and various exchanges and interactions have been developing in a positive direction. The breakthrough developments achieved recently in relations among mainland China, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macao present a rare opportunity. Minister Lai emphasizes that the two sides should seize this opportunity to normalize relations between Taiwan and Hong Kong and Macao. She also expresses hope that under on the principles of mutual benefit and reciprocity, the two sides can vigorously promote measures beneficial to the welfare of the people in Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macao, and promote interaction and official normalized contact between Taiwan and Hong Kong and Macao.

September 10, 2008
During a press conference of the State Council's Taiwan Affairs Office, office spokesperson Li Weiyi states that the APEC "Memorandum of Understanding" (MOU) contains clear stipulations on the participation of "China Taipei" in the APEC and has become customary practice. Mainland China hopes that all sides will suitably resolve this issue according to the MOU. The matter of signing of a Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement (CEPA) between Taiwan and mainland China may be resolved as needed through negotiations between the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) and the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS).

September 11, 2008
Regarding mainland China's use of the name "China Taipei" for the ROC side, Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) Spokesperson Henry Chen states at a press conference that in a memorandum signed in 1991during discussions on the APEC accession of mainland China, the Republic of China (ROC) and Hong Kong, it was agreed that the APEC membership name of the ROC would be "Chinese Taipei," though the Chinese translation of the name was not stipulated. In cases where the Chinese translation of the name is used, the MOFA will adhere to the usage of "Chinese Taipei."

September 12, 2008
Regarding the melamine contamination of infant formula produced by the Sanlu Group in Hebei Province, China, mainland China's General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine indicates that 25 metric tons of milk powder from the same production batch was exported to Taiwan in June. The Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS) notified the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) about this matter. The Mainland side also requests that the milk powder be destroyed on site.

September 14, 2008
The MAC issues a statement indicating that the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS) has notified the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) about the Sanlu-brand melamine-contaminated milk powder exported from mainland China to Taiwan. This process has fully utilized the proper function of institutionalized cross-strait contact channels for reporting emergencies. In order to thoroughly resolve food safety issues, Taiwan suggests that both sides should promptly negotiate on matters related to the management of the safety of food and commodities imported from mainland China to Taiwan. They should also establish a direct liaison channel and timely notification system between their respective competent authorities for trade, commodity inspection and health so as to effectively safeguard the health rights and interests of the people.

September 14, 2008
MAC Deputy Minister Fu Don-cheng states that the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) has been instructed to send a letter to the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS) demanding that the Mainland side promptly conduct an investigation into the facts about the contaminated Sanlu-brand milk powder exported from the Mainland to Taiwan. The letter also demands that the Mainland side duly punish the company for food safety negligence and demand that it make an apology and pay compensation.

September 14, 2008
Regarding the information released by related Mainland agencies about the melamine-contaminated milk powder made by China's Sanlu Group, the Department of Health states that it has conducted a thorough examination of the flow of contaminated imported products and has an initial understanding of where the contaminated products were sold.

September 15, 2008
Regarding the incident of contaminated Sanlu-brand milk powder entering the Taiwan market, Premier Liu Chao-shiuan instructs that all dairy products imported from mainland China in the future must undergo batch-by-batch inspection. He also instructs the MAC to send a letter to official agencies on the Mainland side emphasizing the position that "China's lack of food safety inspection is unacceptable to Taiwan" and calling on the Mainland side to take responsibility for strictly inspecting the safety of exported products.

September 15, 2008
In response to the melamine-contaminated milk powder made by China's Sanlu Group, the Bureau of Standards, Metrology and Inspection under the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) begins label inspection for products made with Mainland- produced milk powder. All products made by the Sanlu Group are prohibited from import to Taiwan, and other products should have a melamine examination report by China's General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine certifying that the products are up to standard before they can be allowed to be imported.

September 16, 2008
While attending the "2008 Mid-Autumn Festival Gathering of Taiwanese Businessmen's Associations," Premier Liu Chao-shiuan states that pragmatic promotion of cross-strait economic and trade relations will be the key to whether or not Taiwan's economy can continue to upgrade. The government's recent relaxation measures, such as raising the ceiling on Mainland-bound investment by Taiwanese businesses to 60%, and investment promotion measures are aimed at tapping the vitality of the private sector, facilitating the normal development of cross-strait economic and trade relations, and promoting economic prosperity and growth in Taiwan.

September 16, 2008
While attending the "2008 Mid-Autumn Festival Gathering of Taiwanese Businessmen's Associations," MAC Minister Lai Shin-yuan states that allowing Taiwanese businesspeople to serve as members of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) is an issue of national law and systems. Under the current law, the people of Taiwan cannot serve in or be members of political parties or military, government, or political organizations or groups in the Mainland Area.

September 16, 2008
The Civil Aeronautics Administration of the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC) issues a press release indicating that during the first 10 weeks of cross-strait weekend charter flights, a total of 180 flights were operated. The total passenger capacity of these flights was 160,848 seats, and actual passenger volume was 138,395, equal to an average load factor of 86%.

September 17, 2008
The Department of Health under the Executive Yuan announces that the government has decided to prohibit the import of all dairy products made by 22 mainland Chinese enterprises.

September 17, 2008
The Salvage Committee of the China Navigation Institute of China and the Taiwan-based Chinese Search and Rescue Association sign a "Letter of Intent to Strengthen Cooperation on Sea Rescue and Salvage."

September 17, 2008
The Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS) sends a letter to the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) expressing sympathy for victims in Taiwan areas struck by typhoon disaster.

September 17, 2008
While attending the "Seventh Liaoning Taiwan Week," Ye Kedong, deputy director of the Taiwan Affairs Office, states that on the basis of the "1992 Consensus," the two sides have jointly established a new framework for the peaceful development of cross-strait relations and for the promotion of cross-strait economic integration on three levels, including: 1) Promptly realizing full, direct, and two-way "Three Links" to create the basic conditions for cross-strait economic development; 2) Normalizing cross-strait economic relations and promoting the gradual elimination of various obstacles influencing the development of cross-strait economic relations; and 3) Establishing mechanisms for cross-strait economic cooperation to steadily build up an overall framework with long-term stability and cross-strait characteristics.

September 18, 2008
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) issues a press release expressing regret that the United Nations (UN) General Committee has not yet included in its agenda the motion on Taiwan's participation in UN organizations. The MOFA reiterates that if the specialized agencies of the UN admitted the participation of Taiwan's 23 million people, it would be beneficial to the establishment of mutual trust between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait and the promotion of peace, stability and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region. The international community should respect the fundamental right of the 23 million people of Taiwan to participate in the activities of international organizations. Taiwan solemnly urges the Mainland authorities to show flexibility and wisdom and promote mutual respect, reconciliation and coexistence between the two sides in the international community.

September 19, 2008
Statistics from the Investment Commission of the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) indicate that 21 Mainland-bound investments with a total capital amount of US$461,263,000 were approved in August 2008.

September 20, 2008
The Ministry of Education (MOE) revises the University Act and Junior College Act to provide a legal basis for students from Hong Kong, Macao and the Mainland Area to study in Taiwan.

September 22, 2008
At the Legislative Yuan, MAC Deputy Minister Johnnason Liu indicates that the MAC will revise the Act Governing Relations Between People of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area to relax the system governing Mainland spouses visiting Taiwan and the working rights of Mainland spouses in Taiwan, as well as to appropriately recognize Mainland-issued academic diplomas and allow mainland Chinese students to study in Taiwan.

September 22, 2008
At the Jiangxi-Taiwan Economic and Trade Cooperation Symposium, Sun Yafu, deputy director of China's Taiwan Affairs Office, states that the Mainland side is researching related measures to support and help Taiwanese-funded enterprises to transform, upgrade and sustainably develop. Mainland China will also continue to implement a policy of "giving equal priority and appropriately opening," actively encourage Taiwan compatriots to make Mainland-bound investments and run businesses there, vigorously promote cross-strait industrial cooperation, expand the fields and increase the level of such cooperation, and actually promote cross-strait financial cooperation to achieve substantive progress.

September 23, 2008
The Department of Health orders Mainland-produced milk powder and other raw materials off the market due to serious contamination.

September 23, 2008
The Tourism Bureau of the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC) issues a press release stating that Mainland tourists can still engage in free activities under the "group entry and exit" rules.

September 23, 2008
In response to questions from the media at the Legislative Yuan, Premier Liu Chao-shiuan states that the government has instructed the Department of Health to form a delegation of experts to visit the Mainland with assistance from the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) to thoroughly understand matters related to the contaminated milk powder incident.

September 23, 2008
Immigration units of public security agencies in mainland China introduce three facilitation measures, including adjusting the number arrangement rules for current five-year Mainland Travel Permits for Taiwan Residents (Taiwan Compatriots Certificate), increasing the number of units able to replace or exchange Taiwan Compatriots Certificates, and allowing applications for Taiwan Compatriots Certificates at ports of arrival.

September 23, 2008
During a speech at a welcoming luncheon hosted by friendly U.S. organizations, Premier Wen Jiabao states that the new leader in Taiwan has reaffirmed the "1992 Consensus." The Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS) and the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) will hold their first talks after a nine-year hiatus. Direct weekend charter flights between the two sides have been launched, and the policy to allow Mainland tourists to visit Taiwan has been implemented. More major steps aimed at promoting the people-to-people, economic and cultural exchanges between the two sides of the Strait are now under discussion. Mainland China is ready to work for practical solutions to the various issues under the principle of "building mutual trust, shelving controversies, finding commonalities despite differences, and creating together a win-win solution" and on the basis of the "1992 Consensus." Mainland China hopes the U.S. side will stick to its commitment, adhere to the "one China" policy and the three Sino-U.S. joint communiques, and oppose "Taiwan independence."

September 24, 2008
The MAC issues a press release indicating that MAC Minister Lai Shin-yuan stated in an interview with CommonWealth Magazine that the first Chiang-Chen Talks symbolized the resumption of institutionalized negotiations between the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) and the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS). The two sides have reached a tacit understanding that they will hold Chiang-Chen talks semiannually.

September 24, 2008
The MAC issues a press release explaining the government's policy position on recognizing academic diplomas issued by mainland Chinese institutions of higher education. The government will adopt careful measures to strictly assess such diplomas, assess the academic level of Mainland universities, and formulate an appropriate threshold for recognition. It will also strictly carry out procedures for verifying academic credentials. Regarding the potential effect on attracting Taiwan students to study in the Mainland and the impact on the higher education industry in Taiwan, government agencies will adhere to the principle of "advancing in an orderly and gradual manner" in studying related education opening-up policies, and carefully study specific feasible approaches in order to promote related matters step by step.

September 24, 2008
During a press briefing, Taiwan Affairs Office Spokesperson Li Weiyi expresses deep distress over the injury caused to Taiwan consumers by the tainted Sanlu baby formula incident. All matters involving responsibility and demand for compensation can be handled through the specialized liaison channel between the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) and the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS). The Mainland side holds positive attitude toward the inclusion of food safety issues in SEF-ARATS negotiations.

September 25, 2008
The spokesperson of the Taiwan Affairs Office under the State Council states that the Mainland side agrees to allow experts from Taiwan to visit the Mainland to understand and communicate the situation regarding contaminated milk powder. The Mainland also agrees to appropriately handle issues involving cross-strait food safety through the direct liaison channel under the framework of the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) and the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS).

September 26, 2008
Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) Chairman Chiang Pin-kung and SEF Deputy Secretary-general Chang Shu-ti convene a press conference to announce the formal formation of a team of Taiwan food health experts. The team will go to Beijing on September 27 to communicate with experts at related agencies in mainland China on issues regarding the melamine-contaminated dairy products.

September 26, 2008
The MAC announces that five local media organizations in the Mainland will be allowed to station reporters in Taiwan. Applications will be accepted up to September 30.

September 26, 2008
The Department of Health begins processing applications for "certificates of melamine-free mainland Chinese products or raw materials."

September 27, 2008
At the Third Cross-Strait Port Economic Development Forum," Li Bingcai, permanent vice chairman of the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS), indicates that the Mainland is Taiwan's biggest source of trade surplus and has replaced the U.S. as Taiwan's biggest trade partner. Comprehensive "Three Links" between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait have become a historical inevitability.

September 28, 2008
Through communication between the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS) and the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF), food health officials on the two sides reach a consensus to promptly establish a cross-strait food safety liaison mechanism under the SEF-ARATS framework.

September 28, 2008
At a reception held to celebrate the 59th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, Jia Qinglin, chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, states that in the spirit of "building mutual trust, shelving controversies, finding commonalities despite differences, and creating together a win-win solution," both sides of the Taiwan Strait have resumed talks on the basis of the "1992 Consensus" and achieved positive results. Mainland China will continue to vigorously strengthen cross-strait personnel contacts and exchanges in the economic, cultural and other spheres, as well as promote direct cross-strait "Three Links."

September 29, 2008
SEF Deputy Secretary-general Chang Shu-ti states that during his visit to mainland China for discussions with mainland Chinese health officials on the handling of the contaminated milk powder incident, the two sides also discussed food safety issues. Both sides hope to establish a mechanism for cross-strait food safety notification and liaison.

September 29, 2008
At a reception held for overseas Chinese to celebrate the 59th anniversary of the founding of the PRC, mainland China's ambassador to the U.S. Zhou Wenzhong indicates that the Taiwan issue pertains to China's core interests. Over the past several months, the leaders of the two sides across the Strait have seized this rare historic opportunity and worked hard to put cross-strait relations on the path to peaceful development. The mainland Chinese government will continue to adhere to the "one China" principle, strengthen cross-strait personnel contacts, promote cross-strait exchanges and cooperation in the economic, cultural and other fields, and work for the welfare of compatriots on both sides so as to achieve peace in the Taiwan Strait and uphold the long-term interests of the Chinese nation.

September 30, 2008
While attending the closing ceremony for the World Taiwanese Chambers of Commerce, President Ma Ying-jeou indicates that in order to promote cross-strait peace, the new government promptly resumed cross-strait negotiations after a 10-year hiatus. The government has also completed the opening of direct cross-strait weekend charter flights and Mainland tourist visits to Taiwan, the expansion of the "Mini-Three-Links," and the further opening of cross-strait investment. The main objective of these measures is to normalize cross-strait relations and further position Taiwan as a global innovation center, Asia-Pacific economic and trade hub, and operation headquarters for Taiwanese businesses.

September 30, 2008
Amidst the worsening situation with the contaminated dairy product incident in mainland China, MAC Minister Lai Shin-yuan states that the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) and the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS) would establish a notification window for special handling of this matter.

September 30, 2008
MAC Spokesperson Johnnason Liu states that contaminated milk powder imported from mainland China to Taiwan has created injury. The Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) will apply for compensation through the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS). It will also use the SEF-ARATS framework to submit a class action suit against the Mainland side.

September 30, 2008
A total of 257 travelers in nine groups become the first Mainland residents to travel to Taiwan for tourism via Kinmen, Matsu and Penghu.

October 1, 2008
Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) Chairman Chiang Pin-kung meets with a mainland Chinese delegation led by Wang Rong, member of the Standing Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Jiangsu Provincial Committee and secretary of the CPC Suzhou Municipal Committee.

October 1, 2008
The Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) receives a letter from mainland China's Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS) informing that, excepting the 25 tons of whole milk powder previously exported by Sanlu Group, no other related products have been exported to Taiwan.

October 2, 2008
The Department of Health (DOH) under the Executive Yuan states that milk powder manufactured in Heilongjiang Province of mainland China was found to have contained trace amounts of melamine. The DOH has demanded that the said products be removed from the shelves to safeguard the consumer rights.

October 3, 2008
According to the latest statistics from the Tourism Bureau under the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC), as of October 2, a total of 20,994 mainland Chinese tourists have visited Taiwan since such visits were officially opened on July 18.

October 4, 2008
Qin Gang, spokesperson of mainland China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), says that the United States' insistence on selling weapons to Taiwan poses an obstacle to China-US exchanges and cooperation, including exchanges and cooperation between the militaries of the two sides. The US should be entirely responsible for this matter.

October 4, 2008
A leading official of the Foreign Affairs Subcommittee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee states that the decision by the United States to sell advanced weapons to Taiwan is a wrong action that gravely interferes with mainland China's domestic affairs. The political parties, organizations and persons of various fields attending the CPPCC express intense indignation and resolute opposition to the weapons sale and firmly support the stern position voiced by the mainland Chinese government to the US.

October 4, 2008
A leading official of the Foreign Affairs Subcommittee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee states that mainland China strongly condemns the decision by the United States government to interfere in mainland China's domestic affairs by selling advanced weapons to Taiwan. There is only "one China" in the world and Taiwan is a part of China. The Taiwan issue concerns China's sovereignty and territorial integrity. The people of China will never compromise on the issue of China's sovereignty, internal affairs and dignity.

October 5, 2008
While attending the 2008 national conference held by the Youth Policy Union, President Ma Ying-jeou states that recognition of mainland Chinese academic records does not mean that Mainland students will be permitted to take licensing exams in Taiwan. Mainland students without Taiwan's identity cards will not be allowed to take such exams, and the government currently has no plans to change this policy.

October 5, 2008
During a symposium held by the Cross-Strait Marriage Harmony Promotion Association of the ROC, MAC Minister Lai Shin-yuan states that the MAC abides by three principles in taking care of the rights and interests of mainland Chinese spouses: to allow bona fide spouses enter Taiwan, to keep out persons involved in fake marriages or human smuggling, and to protect the basic living rights and interests of married couples. The government will also revise the Act Governing Relations Between People of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area to ease rules on the working and residency rights of Mainland spouses. However, other accompanying measures are involved, so this matter must be handled in steps.

October 6, 2008
During an MAC Council Meeting, the MAC presents a report on amendments to some stipulations of the Regulations Governing the Trial Operation of Transportation Links Between Kinmen/Matsu and the Mainland Area. Key revisions to the said Regulations include: resuming applications for "Kinmen and Matsu Certificates" for persons that have had registered households in Kinmen, Matsu or Penghu for over six months; easing restrictions to allow mainlanders can travel to Kinmen and Matsu via the "Mini Three-Links" to attend extension education courses; issuing temporary entry permit notices (or landing visas) or multiple entry permits to mainlanders visiting Kinmen, Matsu or Penghu for tourism purposes; and allowing mainlanders visiting Taiwan for business or professional exchanges to visit Taiwan proper via the "Mini Three-Links." The revisions will also extend the allowable period of stay for mainland travelers in Penghu. A legal basis will be formulated as well to expand the scope of special direct cross-strait cargo transportation links to Penghu.

October 6, 2008
The Ministry of Economic Affairs announces that it will allow products made in parts of Taiwan other than Kinmen and Matsu to be exported to mainland China via Kinmen and Matsu, effective immediately.

October 6, 2008
The Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) sends a letter to mainland China's Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS) informing that the Taiwan side has designated the Bureau of Food Safety under the Cabinet-level Department of Health (DOH) and the Bureau of Standards, Metrology and Inspection under the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) as the contact windows for direct reporting of emergencies between the competent agencies across the Strait for food health issues. The ARATS sends a return letter notifying that the Mainland side has designated the Department of Medical Administration under the Ministry of Health and the Bureau of Import and Export Food Safety under the General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine as the counterpart contact windows on the Mainland side.

October 6, 2008
Results of a MAC survey indicate that, among mainland Chinese cultural and education personnel visiting Taiwan, 99% are satisfied with the itinerary arrangements and 89% say that the visits have a positive impact on their field of specialization.

October 7, 2008
The Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) sends a letter to mainland China's Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS) expressing condolences over the earthquake disaster in Xinjiang and Tibet.

October 8, 2008
In an exclusive interview with Atsushi Okamoto, editor-in-chief of Japan's Sekai Magazine, President Ma Ying-jeou states that in promoting cross-strait relations the ROC government abides by the principle of "putting Taiwan first for the benefit of the people." The improvement of economic and trade relations with mainland China is aimed at normalizing such ties and then easing frictions between the two sides in the international arena. Ultimately, Taiwan hopes that a peace agreement can be signed with mainland China to end cross-strait hostility and let both sides across the Strait walk on the road to peace and prosperity.

October 8, 2008
While attending a MAC-organized welcome reception for Hong Kong and Macao visitors attending the 2008 National Day celebration in Taiwan, Premier Liu Chao-shiuan states that since May 20, 2008, the new administration has actively sought to improve and upgrade relations between Taiwan and Hong Kong and Macao. Taiwan encourages private exchanges and cooperation with Hong Kong and Macao. Moreover, it is willing to significantly upgrade official exchanges and interaction.

October 8, 2008
As chairperson of the Taiwan Strait Tourism Association (TSTA), Director-general Janice Lai of the Tourism Bureau under the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC) leads a group of over 100 tourism business representatives to Beijing and Nanjing to hold introduction seminars.

October 9, 2008
The Kaohsiung Customs Office states that, according to an announcement by the Ministry of Economic Affairs, goods from areas in Taiwan other than Kinmen and Matsu may be exported to mainland China via Kinmen and Matsu, effective from September 30, 2008. The requirement that exports with an FOB (free on board) value of over US$100,000 have an affidavit of examination certificate issued by the Taiwanese Businessmen's Association will also be eliminated.

October 9, 2008
A spokesperson of mainland China's Ministry of National Defense (MND) indicates at press conference that the United States' announcement regarding its plan to sell weapons to Taiwan will poison the good atmosphere for the development of Sino-US military relations by creating a serious obstacle to military exchanges and cooperation between the two sides. Mainland China demands that the US clearly recognize this situation, faithfully carry out the three China-US joint communiques, and abide by its solemn pledges made to mainland China on the Taiwan issue. It demands that the US immediately stop and cancel plans to sell weapons to Taiwan to prevent further damage to China-US military relations and peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. Mainland China reserves the right to take further action.

October 10, 2008
In an address to the 2008 National Day Rally, President Ma Ying-jeou states that after taking office on May 20, with a strong mandate from the people, the new government swiftly re-established cross-strait dialogue, which had been disrupted for a decade. This has significantly eased cross-strait tensions and made a clear contribution to regional stability and peace, winning the affirmation of the international community, including that of the United States, Japan, the European Union, various Southeast Asian countries, Australia and New Zealand. President Ma further states that while differences still exist between Taiwan and mainland China over sovereignty issues, we hope that the two sides can apply wisdom to shelve disputes and chart courses to steadily extend the political reconciliation achieved in cross-strait relations to the international arena. We hope to thereby eliminate unnecessary conflict and confrontation between the two sides in the international community, and create a win-win-win situation for Taiwan, mainland China, and the world community.

October 13, 2008
The MAC publishes the "Explanations Concerning the Forthcoming Second Chiang-Chen Talks," in which it indicates that the short-term objective of the talks is to develop a cross-strait relationship based on mutual benefit and reciprocity; and the long-term objective is to build a peaceful, stable relationship in an orderly process. Taiwan hopes that during the talks, the two sides could: 1. Sign agreements that benefit Taiwan and cross-strait relations; 2. Resolve issues of concern to diverse parties through dialogue and negotiations; and 3. Invite Chen Yunlin to visit Taiwan to gain an appreciation for Taiwan's pluralistic, democratic society.

October 15, 2008
A MAC public opinion survey indicates that 52% of the respondents support the position that mainland China should issue a public apology over the export of contaminated milk to Taiwan before Chen Yunlin, chairman of the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Straits (ARATS), is allowed to visit Taiwan. A total of 64.29% of the respondents approve of holding the Second Chiang-Chen Talks in Taiwan and allowing the institutionalized negotiations to smoothly proceed.

October 15, 2008
The MAC holds the Award Ceremony and Symposium for the 7th Award for Outstanding Groups Promoting Cross-Strait Professional Exchanges.

October 15, 2008
Yang Yi, spokesperson of the Taiwan Affairs Office under mainland China's State Council, states at a regular press conference that the Mainland side will continue to appropriately handle follow-up matters concerning the tainted milk powder incident. In the future, all problems involving cross-strait food safety can be jointly resolved through specialist contact channels under the framework between the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) and the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS). Furthermore, ARATS Chairman Chen Yunlin will lead an ARATS delegation to Taiwan this year for negotiations with the SEF-this is a consensus reached in June this year during the talks between the leaders of the SEF and the ARATS.

October 16, 2008
The National Immigration Agency under the Ministry of the Interior revises regulations to allow people of the Mainland Area holding an identity card issued in the Mainland Area and a valid travel permit to visit Penghu for tourism purposes.

October 17, 2008
The Taipei Customs Office states that the Department of Health under the Executive Yuan has placed a comprehensive ban on milk powder and related products imported from mainland China. The measure is aimed at blocking the import of Mainland products contaminated with melamine, such as milk powder, other dairy products, non-dairy creamer, and vegetable protein.

October 17, 2008
The Department of Health states that from October 17, 2008, Taiwan will prohibit the import of ammonium bicarbonate raw materials from mainland China.

October 18, 2008
In an interview with India and Global Affairs, an English-language strategic studies journal published in India, President Ma Ying-jeou states that there is no timetable for the establishment of a military mutual trust mechanism or peace agreement with mainland China. Cross-strait weekend charter flights and allowing Mainland tourists to visit Taiwan are the policy priorities of the new administration. The next step will be to promote direct cross-strait air and sea transportation links and to fully normalize economic relations between the two sides. After that there will come the issues of international space and the signing of a peace agreement.

October 19, 2008
Zhang Mingqing, vice chairman of the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS), leads a delegation to visit Taiwan as dean of the School of Journalism and Communication at Xiamen University.

October 20, 2008
The Investment Commission under the Ministry of Economic Affairs announces that 34 mainland China-bound investment cases were approved in September 2008, with a total approved investment amount of US$1,263,382,000.

October 21, 2008
At the "2008 Symposium for Important Military Cadres," President Ma Ying-jeou states that under the framework of the Constitution of the Republic of China, he will maintain the cross-strait status quo and adhere to the strategy and position of "no unification, no independence, and no use of force." "No unification" means that President Ma will not discuss the issue of cross-strait unification with the other side during his term of office. "No independence" means that Taiwan will not seek and will not support any efforts towards de jure Taiwan independence. And "no use of force" means that Taiwan will oppose the use of force to resolve issues between the two sides.

October 21, 2008
Zhang Mingqing, vice chairman of the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS), sends a letter to the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) expressing intense outrage and condemnation over the attack against him during a visit to Tainan City.

October 21, 2008
The Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) sends a reply letter to the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS) regarding the security incident involving ARATS Vice Chairman Zhang Mingqing. It states that the competent authorities in Taiwan are investigating the troublemakers and taking rigorous measures to protect the security of Vice Chairman Zhang during the remainder of his itinerary. A recurrence of this type of incident will not be allowed.

October 21, 2008
A spokesperson of the Taiwan Affairs Office under mainland China's State Council issues a statement expressing intense outrage and condemnation over the attack against Zhang Mingqing during his visit to Taiwan. The Mainland side demands that Taiwan severely punish the troublemakers and uphold the rights of the people on both sides for normal exchanges.

October 22, 2008
The National Immigration Agency under the Ministry of the Interior repatriates 72 illegal mainland Chinese stowaways on Matsu back to the mainland.

October 22, 2008
Based on the Kinmen Accord, the Red Cross Society of Fujian Province makes arrangements for repatriation of Mainland stowaways in Matsu with the Red Cross Society of the Republic of China. It also hands over to the Taiwan side 13 Taiwan residents suspected of involvement in fraud, robbery and illegal immigration.

October 22, 2008
The scope of immigration administration units of public security agencies authorized to handle the replacement and renewal of the "Mainland Travel Permit for Taiwan Residents" will be expanded to include such units in Beijing, Tianjin, Chongqing and Zhejiang Province.

October 24, 2008
The list of finalists for the "12th Awards for News Reporting on Cross-Strait Relations" is announced at a ceremony sponsored by the Chinese Development Fund and co-sponsored by Ming Chuan University. The finalists included 21 news reports and 50 news personnel.

October 27, 2008
In an exclusive interview with the Central News Agency, President Ma Ying-jeou indicates that previous attempts to sign a free trade agreement (FTA) with Singapore failed due to obstruction from Beijing and Taiwan's insistence on using the name "Economic Entity of Taiwan." Taiwan may have a much better chance of signing FTAs with other countries under the name "Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu (abbreviated as "Chinese Taipei"), as that adopted by the World Trade Organization (WTO).

October 27, 2008
The Ministry of Education proposes two plans to "extend the maximum period of study in Taiwan for mainland Chinese students to one year" and "ease regulations on universities promoting extension education programs in mainland China, Kinmen and Matsu."

October 27, 2008
Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) Vice Chairman and Secretary-general Kao Koong-lian leads an 11-person delegation to visit Shenzhen in mainland China for holding preparatory talks with representatives of the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS) on Chen Yunlin's visit to Taiwan.

October 27, 2008
The SEF receives a letter from mainland China's Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS) apologizing to consumers and businesses in Taiwan affected by the tainted milk powder incident.

October 27, 2008
Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi indicates that during the Chen-Chiang Talks, the two sides should be able to reach an agreement on direct cross-strait sea and air transportation links and cross-strait postal cooperation, essentially achieving the goal of the "Three Links" both sides have long worked towards. The focus of next year's cross-strait negotiations will be on deepening economic cooperation. It is hoped that the two sides can discuss the establishment of an overall framework of long-term stability for win-win economic cooperation that embodies cross-strait characteristics.

October 28, 2008
The Department of Health announces that from today all protein powder made in mainland China will be prohibited from import into Taiwan.

October 28, 2008
According to the "Opinions on Implementing the Work of Fujian-Taiwan Educational Exchange and Cooperation" promulgated by mainland China's Fujian Province, it is indicated that in the future Fujian Province will expand the scope of recruitment of Taiwanese students and will select Fujian students to study in Taiwan. It will also actively promote mutual recognition of academic credits and records between the two sides.

October 29, 2008
Yang Yi, spokesperson of the Taiwan Affairs Office under mainland China's State Council, states at a press conference that the main task of the visit to Taiwan by Chen Yulin, chairman of the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS), is to hold institutionalized negotiations with the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) on urgent issues of concern to the people on both sides, including direct cross-strait shipping links, cross-strait cargo charter flights, weekday charter flights, the establishment of new routes for direct two-way cross-strait air links, comprehensive cross-strait postal service, cross-strait food safety, and other economic and daily life issues.

October 29, 2008
During a joint press interview in Taiwan, Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS) Chairman Chen Yunlin states that the visit to Taiwan by Mainland delegation is the first talks held in Taiwan between the leaders of the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) and the ARATS. It marks a new milestone in the institutionalized negotiations between the SEF and the ARATS and an important step in the development of cross-strait relations.

October 30, 2008
During a meeting with representatives of the sea and air transportation industries, President Ma Ying-jeou states that the meaning of the "Second Chiang-Chen Talks" can be summarized as, "facing reality, mutual non-denial, creating benefit for the people, and cross-strait peace." He also reiterates that the government adheres to the principle of "putting Taiwan first for the benefit of the people" to work for the greatest interests of the people.

October 31, 2008
In a meeting with agricultural and fishing industry representatives, President Ma Ying-jeou states that, in view of the contaminated milk powder incident, food safety would be listed as a focal point in the current negotiations with mainland China. He expresses hope that in the future, the two sides can establish a mutually agreeable system to prevent such incidents, covering everything from pre-export inspection of goods to the handling of compensation claims.

October 31, 2008
The MAC issues a press release indicating that the government has always carefully promoted cross-strait policies according to cross-strait developments and in consideration of public opinion. The current cross-strait negotiations on sea and air transportation links will be sequentially promoted on the established foundation.

October 31, 2008
Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Straits (ARATS) Standing Vice Chairman Zheng Lizhong leads a delegation composed of Secretary-general Li Yafei and others to visit Taipei to plan arrangements for the itinerary, negotiations and agreement signing venue during the Chiang-Chen Talks.

November 1, 2008
The ARATS sends advance personnel for discussions with related personnel of the SEF regarding the SEF-ARATS talks in Taipei on November 3.

November 1, 2008
The Taiwan Affairs Office of mainland China's State Council announces the "Measures Governing News Coverage by Taiwan Reporters in the Mainland Area." The measures stipulate that Taiwan reporters shall apply to the relevant competent authority for a Mainland Travel Permit for Taiwan Residents before visiting the Mainland. Taiwan reporters must obtain the consent of organizations and individuals that are the subjects of their reporting in the Mainland; and they should carry and present their press credentials when engaged in news reporting.

November 3, 2008
The MAC issues a press release indicating that the government's policies on cross-strait relations, like all other policies, are constrained by our domestic laws and public opinion. As this round of talks is being conducted in Taipei, it can more conveniently be monitored by Taiwan's press, the public and opposition parties. The fact that the resumed institutionalized negotiations between the SEF and the ARATS are being held alternately in Beijing and Taipei also highlights the principle of equality in cross-strait negotiations. The issues that the MAC has authorized the SEF to negotiate in the current round of talks are limited to the following: cross-strait air transportation, sea transportation, postal cooperation and food safety. The talks have nothing to do with political relations across the Taiwan Strait, let alone any change in our nation's status.

November 3, 2008
ARATS Chairman Chen Yunlin arrives with a Mainland negotiation delegation at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport. He delivers a prepared speech expressing thanks to the reception arranged by people from various sectors in Taiwan.

November 3, 2008
The SEF and the ARATS held a second round of preparatory consultations on the related agreements to be signed at the upcoming Second Chiang-Chen Talks. SEF Vice Chairman and Secretary-general Kao Koong-lian states that the four issues discussed are all related to people's livelihood and economy and are entirely nonpolitical in nature.

November 3, 2008
During a welcome ceremony held at the SEF, ARATS Chairman Chen Yunlin states that the Mainland delegation has two major tasks during its visit to Taiwan: 1) to hold negotiations and sign agreements with the SEF on the four issues of direct cross-strait air transport, direct cross-strait sea transport, postal cooperation, and food safety; and 2) to exchange views on how to deal with the impact caused by the global financial storm on the cross-strait economy.

November 3, 2008
While seeing off ARATS Chairman Chen Yunlin on his visit to Taiwan, Wang Yi, director of mainland China's Taiwan Affairs Office, states that cross-strait negotiations should advance in an orderly and gradual manner, dealing with the easy issues first and the difficult issues later. After the four agreements are signed, the two sides can generally complete progress on the "Three Links." The Mainland side will maintain an active and open attitude toward future negotiation issues between the SEF and the ARATS, including approaches to normalizing cross-strait economic relations and exploring institutionalized arrangements for cross-strait economic cooperation.

November 4, 2008
During a meeting with ARATS Chairman Chen Yunlin, MAC Minister Lai Shin-yuan states that the two sides of the Taiwan Strait need to gradually build up trust. Ample communication and dialogue is needed on the one hand, and at the same time the two sides must frankly face up to and respect the current cross-strait realities. Benign cross-strait interactions have created new opportunities. By adhering to the principle of "equality, mutual trust, dignity, and mutual benefit," the two sides can actively create benefits for the people on both sides.

November 4, 2008
In a press release entitled "Hoping that the Mainland will seize the current favorable opportunity to jointly advance cross-strait relations," MAC Minister Lai Shin-yuan says that she expressed four key points to ARATS Chairman Chen Yunlin during a meeting with him. First, she emphasized the importance of conducting cross-strait negotiations on the basis of equality. Secondly, she specifically explained the priority of establishing order in cross-strait exchanges. Thirdly, she presented her thoughts on the need to share with all of the people the benefits of exchanges and negotiations. And fourthly, she reminded the Mainland side that it should face up to cross-strait realities, seize the current favorable moment, and work together with Taiwan to create long-term peace and development in cross-strait interactions. Minister Lai also stated that the two sides could discuss mutually beneficial approaches to normalizing cross-strait economic and trade relations based on the close economic and trade contacts across the Taiwan Strait.

November 4, 2008
SEF Chairman Chiang Pin-kung and ARATS Chairman Chen Yunlin meet for the Second Chiang-Chen Talks, marking the first meeting in Taiwan between leaders of the SEF and the ARATS. The two sides signed four agreements on direct cross-strait air transport, direct cross-strait air transport, postal cooperation, and food safety. In addition, they discussed ways to promote Mainland tourist visits to Taiwan, cooperatively respond to the international finance crisis, and strengthen cross-strait economic exchanges. The two sides also exchanged views on issues to be included in the next stage of SEF-ARATS negotiations as well as on strengthening contacts between the two organizations and developing exchanges and cooperation.

November 5, 2008
The SEF and the ARATS jointly hold the "Cross-Strait Industrial, Commercial and Shipping Seminar" and "Cross-Strait Financial Symposium" to conduct discussions and exchanges on ways to jointly respond to the international financial crisis and strengthen financial cooperation.

November 6, 2008
During a press conference at the Presidential Office Building, President Ma Ying-jeou states that the basic principle of the government's cross-strait policy is to maintain the cross-strait status quo of "no unification, no independence, and no use of force" under the framework of the Constitution of the Republic of China. The government will adhere to the principle of "putting Taiwan first for the benefit of the people" in promoting specific policies. Taiwan will seek to uphold cross-strait peace, while also maintaining a strong national defense. Various approaches will be adopted to uphold cross-strait peace, such as promoting cross-strait contacts, trade, investment, travel and financial relations. In this way, the two sides can establish good relations in many areas, while also reducing the risk of conflict.

November 6, 2008
During a meeting with SEF and ARATS delegations, President Ma Ying-jeou states that differences and challenges still exist between the two sides, especially with regard to Taiwan's security and space for Taiwan in the international community. President Ma hopes the two sides in the future will handle these differences and expand bilateral cooperation based on the foundation of "facing up to the reality, mutual non-denial, working for the benefits of the people, and cross-strait peace." The president also expresses his desire for even higher level visits between the two sides in the future.

November 7, 2008
During a press conference at the Government Information Office on the Second Chiang-Chen Talks, MAC Minister Lai Shin-yuan states that, with full authorization from the MAC, the SEF has coordinated with related ministries to complete negotiations and sign the four agreements. The agreements are significant in that they will further implement the institutionalized negotiation mechanism between the two sides, greatly upgrade the level of cross-strait interactions, underscore the key points in the current phase of cross-strait negotiations, embody a new model for cross-strait negotiations and interaction on the basis of equality, stabilize cross-strait relations, and promote regional peace.

November 7, 2008
ARATS Chairman Chen Yunlin and the ARATS delegation complete their visit to Taiwan and return to Beijing.

November 7, 2008
During the welcome reception for the return of the ARATS delegation to Beijing, Wang Yi, director of mainland China's Taiwan Affairs Office, states that the ARATS mission to Taiwan for talks was a journey of exploration. It was the first visit by an ARATS Chairman to Taiwan, and the first time that the two sides had held formal talks in Taipei. It was also a journey of cooperation. In the spirit of equal negotiations, mutual benefit and a win-win solution, the ARATS and the SEF signed four major agreements and held a series of beneficial exchange activities. The trip was also a journey of peace. Chairman Chen and the ARATS delegation demonstrated China's greatest sincerity and hope for the peaceful development of cross-strait relations.

November 8, 2008
In a speech delivered at the "2008 Commendation Assembly for Educational Contribution Awards and Outstanding Senior Teachers," Premier Liu Chao-shiuan indicates that the government will actively promote cross-strait academic and cultural exchanges to facilitate benign interactions between the two sides. The government will proceed cautiously and gradually in allowing Mainland students to study and earn academic degrees in Taiwan and in recognizing academic degrees from high quality Mainland universities, in order to create more exchange opportunities for students on the two sides and to provide more space for study and development.

November 9, 2008
The MAC announces the results of a public opinion survey. The survey results indicate that over 70 percent of the public support the institutionalized mechanism for negotiations across the Taiwan Strait. Between 70 and 80 percent of the public also feel satisfied with the four agreements signed during the latest round of cross-strait talks, and over 60 percent of the public believe the concrete results of the talks will have a positive impact on Taiwan's economic development. In addition, a considerable majority (67 percent) of the public disagree with the statement that Chairman Chen Yunlin's visit to Taiwan will undermine Taiwan's national dignity.

November 10, 2008
At the opening ceremony of the Republic of China's "Fourth Global Conference on Overseas Compatriot Affairs," President Ma Ying-jeou states that the government advocates a diplomatic truce. With regard to diplomacy, Taiwan will "stop what should be stopped and advance with what should be advanced." As the government strengthens ties with diplomatic allies, it will also reach an agreement with the Mainland so that the two sides do not mutually seek to pry away each other's allies. Taiwan hopes that the two sides can achieve in the international arena a reconciliation and truce similar to what has been achieved in cross-strait relations.

November 11, 2008
While attending an assembly to celebrate Industry Day, President Ma Ying-jeou states that the four agreements signed between Taiwan and mainland China are in the interest of Taiwan. They will not only improve relations with the Mainland, but will also expand the development opportunities available to Taiwan.

November 12, 2008
During a press conference, Taiwan Affairs Office Spokesperson Fan Liqing states that Chairman Chen Yunlin's recent visit to Taiwan powerfully promoted progress on opening up direct cross-strait "Three Links" and injected new momentum for the peaceful development of cross-strait relations. Mainland China also welcomes members of the Democratic Progressive Party to visit the Mainland in suitable capacities so that they may improve their understanding.

November 13, 2008
After listening to a report presented by the MAC at the Executive Yuan on the Second Chiang-Chen Talks, Premier Liu Chao-shiuan states that the four agreements signed during the talks lay a foundation for the establishment of institutionalized negotiation channels across the Taiwan Strait. He instructs that the MAC should manage the progress so as to complete follow-up accompanying measures at the soonest possible time as well as establish a special task force to actively plan affairs related to future negotiations. Premier Liu also emphasizes that the latest round of negotiations dealt with economic issues, however the thinking of some people is mainly politically-oriented. Related government agencies must be proactive in explaining policies and measures and build a strong domestic consensus so that follow-up negotiations can smoothly begin.

November 13, 2008
The Joint Review Committee of the National Immigration Agency under the Ministry of the Interior agrees to allow mainland China's South East Satellite TV and the Fujian Daily Group (including the latter's subsidiary papers, the Fujian Daily, Strait City Daily and Strait Herald) to take turns in stationing reporters in Taiwan to cover news events.

November 14, 2008
During an interview with USA Today, President Ma Ying-jeou states that the time is not yet ripe for a meeting between the leaders of the two sides of the Taiwan Strait. However, Taiwan will continue to normalize economic, trade and cultural relations with mainland China, and it will not exclude any possibility of engaging in negotiations and signing a peace agreement. However, Taiwan needs to improve relations with the Mainland in an orderly and gradual manner. This will begin with the most basic cross-strait needs-shipping, postal service and other affairs, and later expand into other fields.

November 14, 2008
The Fujian Provincial Government announces "Opinions on Implementing Fujian-Taiwan Educational Exchanges and Cooperation Projects." The opinions call for the establishment of a cross-strait forum for elementary and middle school principals, the holding of an annual speech contest for middle school students of the two sides, and the promotion of cross-strait academic exchanges and cooperation. Strenuous efforts will be made to encourage Taiwan students to study in Fujian. The scope of Fujian schools open to Taiwanese students will also be expanded to include undergraduate colleges, vocational colleges and other vocational schools.

November 15, 2008
During a visit to the Dongrong Cooperative Farm, President Ma Ying-jeou reiterates that the four agreements recently signed between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait fully accord with the principles of equality and dignity. The Republic of China is an independent sovereign country. No compromise has been made in this regard, and there has been no dwarfing of cross-strait equality and mutual benefit.

November 16, 2008
While attending the annual meeting of the Constitutional Law Association of the Republic of China (ROC), President Ma Ying-jeou states that the ROC is an independent sovereign country. No person can downgrade the country's status, and Taiwan's future will of course be decided by all of its 23 million people. The Act Governing Relations Between People of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area clearly makes a distinction between sovereignty and jurisdiction. It defines the "Taiwan Area" as "Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen, Matsu, and any other area under the effective control of the Government"; and defines the Mainland Area as "the territory of the Republic of China outside the Taiwan Area." This position accords with the long-term view of the ROC side that cross-strait contact must be conducted under the principles of "equality" and "dignity," and it must not conflict with the principle of "putting Taiwan first for the benefit of the people."

November 16, 2008
At the "4th Conference on Hunan-Taiwan Economic and Trade Exchange and Cooperation," Wang Yi, director of mainland China's Taiwan Affairs Office, states that the ARATS and the SEF reached four major agreements in Taipei on cross-strait exchanges and cooperation in various fields. This marks a new historical starting point. First, it will make cross-strait contact more convenient. Secondly, it will expand cross-strait exchanges and enable more frequent interaction. Thirdly, it will promote closer cross-strait economic cooperation. And fourthly, it will provide new momentum for the peaceful development of cross-strait relations.

November 19, 2008
In an exclusive interview with the Liberty Times, President Ma Ying-jeou states that time is needed to bring about cross-strait reconciliation. In the process of achieving peace, Taiwan cannot endure humiliation, cannot yield its sovereignty, and cannot allow its dignity to be undermined. Under the framework of the Constitution of the Republic of China, Taiwan's Mainland policy will be to maintain the status quo in the Taiwan Strait, meaning no unification, no Taiwan independence, no use of force by mainland China, and putting Taiwan first for the benefit of the people.

November 20, 2008
SEF Vice Chairman and Secretary-general Kao Koong-lian leads a delegation to Shenzhen and Dongguan for meetings with officials of Guangdong's Taiwan Affairs Office and the secretary of the Dongguan Municipal Committee of the Communist Party of China to discuss ways to help Taiwanese businesses transform and upgrade their operations. During the visit, Vice Chairman Kao also seeks to encourage Mainland-based Taiwanese businesses to reinvest in Taiwan.

November 21, 2008
In a meeting with representatives of the Alliance for Reform of Immigration Act and Cross-Strait Marriage Harmony Promotion Association of the ROC, MAC Minister Lai Shin-yuan states that, with regard to adjusting the system for Mainland spouses, the MAC will amend the Act Governing Relations Between People of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area in keeping with the three principles of anti-discrimination, democratic rule of law, and prevention of illegal immigrants and persons involved in fake marriages from obstructing the rights and interests of legal immigrants. Key points include:

1. Comprehensively broadening the working rights of Mainland spouses.
2. Shortening the time required for Mainland spouses to obtain ROC ID cards.
3. Adding stipulations requiring the holding of a review meeting prior to the compulsory exit of Mainland spouses so that the involved parties have an opportunity to state their views.
4. Canceling the restriction that bans Mainland spouses from receiving an inheritance of more than NT$2 million.
5. Stipulating that the legal relationship between parents and children shall be governed by the area in which the children have a registered household.

November 22, 2008
During a meeting with Chinese Taipei representative Lien Chan at the 16th APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in Peru, mainland Chinese President Hu Jintao states that ARATS Chairman Chen Yunlin's recent visit to Taiwan and the signing of agreements with the SEF on air transport, sea transport, postal cooperation and food safety symbolize a new chapter in the development of cross-strait relations.

November 23, 2008
SEF Deputy Secretary-general Lin Shu-min leads an SEF notary delegation to mainland China for visits and exchange activities in Guangzhou, Shanghai, and Beijing.

November 25, 2008
During a meeting with Chairman Graham Watson, leader of the Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe in the European Parliament, MAC Minister Lai Shin-yuan states that the Second Chiang-Chen Talks had deep historical significance. In addition to being conducive to peace and development in the Asia-Pacific region, it will also have a positive impact on relations between Taiwan and the European Union.

November 26, 2008
Fan Liqing, spokesperson of the State Council's Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO), states that the Taiwan Work Office of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China and the TAO will jointly coordinate related departments to study specific measures to support the development of Taiwanese enterprises in response to the challenges of the financial crisis and to promote joint development of the cross-strait economy. Related departments are also intensively studying specific measures for qualified Taiwan residents to practice law in the Mainland, and they will make an announcement at an appropriate time. The mainland Chinese government is also coordinating various sectors to actively help Taiwanese businesses to resolve difficulties and issues that they face due to the financial crisis.

November 27, 2008
ARATS Secretary-general Li Yafei meets in Beijing with SEF Deputy Secretary-general Lin Shu-min and the Mainland Mission for Cross-Strait Notary Affairs.

November 27, 2008
At the Cross-Strait Financial Academic Research Seminar, ARATS Vice Chairman Sun Yafu states that the two sides should accelerate progress on financial cooperation and confirm the financial issues to be discussed at the next Chiang-Chen Talks.

November 27, 2008
The Ministry of Culture and Fujian Province sign an "Agreement on Joint Cultural Development in the Economic Zone on the West Coast of the Taiwan Strait" to promote cultural exchange between Fujian and Taiwan. Under the agreement, the Ministry of Culture will assist Fujian in establishing a cross-strait cultural industry cooperation center and "Cross-Strait Cultural Industry Park" and strive to turn the west side of the Taiwan Strait into an important cultural industry center in the Mainland.

December 3, 2008
While attending a symposium at the Taiwan Foreign Correspondents' Club, President Ma Ying-jeou indicates that cross-strait negotiations would proceed from the easy to the difficult and deal with economics first and politics later. The government needs to distinguish between important and urgent tasks. A cross-strait peace agreement is not the most pressing issue. Such an agreement must be premised on the sincerity to improve cross-strait relations. However, Taiwan still has considerable misgivings due to mainland China's more than one thousand missiles aimed at Taiwan. The government will insist that mainland China remove the missiles before a peace agreement is signed.

December 4, 2008
The Executive Yuan approves draft amendments to Article 22 of the Act Governing Relations Between People of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area. The changes open the door for Mainland students to study at colleges and universities in Taiwan. They also broaden the scope of Mainland academic diplomas recognized by Taiwan. The Executive Yuan further emphasizes that, under the principle of "three restrictions and six noes," the government will cautiously promote related follow-up measures to protect the rights and interests of local students in Taiwan. This principle includes "no preferential treatment through bonus points," "no impact on the educational rights and interests of Taiwan students," "being ineligible for government scholarships," "no part-time jobs after school," "no employment problems," "no qualification to take civil service examinations," "restriction on recognition of Mainland's higher education schools," "restriction on the number of Mainland students allowed to study in Taiwan," and "restriction on recognition of medical academic diplomas."

December 4, 2008
MAC Spokesperson Johnnason Liu states at a press conference that under the Act Governing Relations Between People of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area, residents of the Taiwan Area may not hold any political position in the Mainland Area. Although the Mainland's Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) is a consultative institution, it is a Mainland political organization in nature; although Xiamen has opened up CPPCC membership at the local level, the CPPCC is a national organization with national political significance. It is therefore "unsuitable" for Taiwan residents to accept such positions under the current policy direction.

December 4, 2008
The Financial Supervisory Commission of the Executive Yuan announces the draft "Regulations Governing Investment in Taiwan Securities and Futures by Investors in the Mainland Area."

December 5, 2008
The SEF sends a letter to ARATS requesting prompt assistance in coordinating the related agencies to grant approval and provide necessary administrative convenience for Amway employee to visit Taiwan to attend a company seminar.

December 9, 2008
During an interview with Maureen Fan, Beijing Bureau Chief for The Washington Post, President Ma Ying-jeou says that public opinion surveys indicate broad popular support in Taiwan for the signing of cross-strait cooperation agreements on direct cross-strait air and sea transport links, postal service and expansion of food safety cooperation. The next step will involve expanding cross-strait cooperation in the banking sector to allow mutual investment across the Strait. President Ma also expresses hope that Taiwan will be able to participate in the World Health Assembly in May 2009. Taiwan is not asking to be admitted to the World Health Organization in the name of Taiwan, but rather it is calling upon the United Nations (UN) to examine the need for the meaningful participation of Taiwan's 23 million people in the activities of the UN specialized agencies.

December 10, 2008
The SEF receives documentation from mainland China's Endangered Species Import and Export Management Office for the export of pandas to Taiwan.

December 11, 2008
The Executive Yuan passes MAC-proposed draft amendments to some stipulations of the Act Governing Relations Between People of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area. Under the revised Act, the period required for Mainland spouses to qualify for ROC ID cards will be shortened to six years. Mainland spouses will also be allowed to work in Taiwan, and the NT$2 million ceiling in inheritance by Mainland spouses will be removed. These measures will provide more comprehensive protections for the working rights and property rights of Mainland spouses in Taiwan. MAC Minister Lai Shin-yuan emphasizes that the draft amendments are aimed at thoroughly reforming the system for Mainland spouses and mark a major step forward in the government's protection of human rights.

December 11, 2008
MAC Deputy Minister Johnnason Liu states at press conference that the KMT-CPC Forum is an unofficial and non-policy platform for the exchange of opinions across the Taiwan Strait. Officials participating in the forum must do so in a private capacity and any conclusions reached shall only serve as a reference for guiding government policy.

December 12, 2008
The MAC issues a press release indicating that the content of the four agreements signed by the SEF and the ARATS during their second talks would come into effect within 40 days of the signing date. Direct cross-strait transport links will be officially implemented after the Ministry of Transportation and Communications and related agencies issue accompanying laws and regulations.

December 12, 2008
Mainland China's Ministry of Transport issues an "Announcement on Matters Relating to the Implementation of Direct Shipping Links Across the Taiwan Strait" and the "Interim Measures on Supervision and Management of Direct Shipping Vessels Across the Taiwan Strait," both of which will be implemented on December 15.

December 14, 2008
The Keelung Harbor Bureau of the Ministry of Transportation and Communications announces the "Regulations Governing Permission for Direct Shipping Between the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area." It also announces the harbors open for direct transport links in the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Areas as well as matters relating to cross-strait shipping links.

December 14, 2008
Chunghwa Post Co., Ltd. announces that direct cross-strait postal service will begin on December 15, 2008, opening up cross-strait postal service cooperation.

December 15, 2008
Attending a ceremony for the departure of the Evergreen Marine vessel M.V. Uni-Adroit on the first direct cross-strait voyage, President Ma Ying-jeou states that the opening up of direct cross-strait transport links is significant in two ways. On the one hand, it represents cross-strait reconciliation and a decision by the two sides not to walk on the past road of opposition and conflict, or in other words, the replacement of opposition with negotiations and conflict with reconciliation in a joint effort to achieve peace and prosperity. Seen from an economic perspective, the direct air and sea links will also help both sides greatly reduce time and costs.

December 15, 2008
The State Development and Reform Commission and the Taiwan Affairs Office of mainland Chinese State Council release a "Notice on the Relevant Provisions on the Special Administration of Mainland Enterprises' Investment in the Taiwan Region" to encourage Mainland enterprises to invest in Taiwan.

December 17, 2008
During a press conference, Taiwan Affairs Office Spokesperson Li Weiyi expresses hope that the two sides of the Taiwan Strait can work together and negotiate a solution to the wishes of Taiwan compatriots to participate in international activities.

December 18, 2008
During an Executive Yuan session, Premier Liu Chao-shiuan states that the formal launch of direct cross-strait sea and air transport links marks a historic moment and turns a new page for peaceful cross-strait development. With the opening of the "Big-Three-Links," cross-strait exchanges will grow closer. It will also give rise to more problems that need to be handled through negotiations. The MAC should properly plan follow-up negotiation issues and gradually make preparations for the peaceful development in the Taiwan Strait under the SEF-ARATS framework established for the institutionalized cross-strait negotiations.

December 20, 2008
In an article published by "The Nation" newspaper in Thailand, President Ma Ying-jeou indicates that if mainland China can abandon its zero-sum thinking, stop suppressing Taiwan's international space, and respect the wishes of the Taiwan people to participate in the international community, the two sides can work jointly to advance human welfare and promote regional peace and security. This is the best way to realize lasting peace in the Taiwan Strait.

December 20, 2008
The MAC issues a press release indicating that the outside sector is concerned over the participation of officials in the "KMT-CPC Forum" in personal capacities. On the basis of clear transparency of itinerary activities and allowing agencies to understand the overall situation related to activity participation, the MAC proposes that participating officials present a visit report to their agency of employment after returning to Taiwan.

December 20, 2008
In a speech at the 4th Cross-Strait Economic, Trade and Cultural Forum, Jia Qinglin, chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, states that since May, the two sides have adhered to the spirit of "building mutual trust, shelving controversies, finding commonalities despite differences, and creating together a win-win solution," bringing cross-strait relations onto a peaceful development track. He also offered five suggestions, namely that the two sides: 1) Actively begin cooperation and jointly respond to the international financial crisis; 2) Actively promote negotiations to achieve substantive progress in cross-strait financial industry cooperation; 3) Actively take measures to increase the level and scope of cross-strait industrial cooperation; 4) Actively create conditions to accelerate and realize the normalization of cross-strait economic relations; and 5) Actively carry out discussions and establish a cross-strait economic cooperation mechanism as soon as possible.

December 21, 2008
Speaking at a seminar on the "60th Anniversary of the Interpretation of the Constitution of the Republic of China," President Ma Ying-jeou states that his political position of "no unification, no independence, and no use of force" means that during his term of office, the government will not discuss cross-strait unification issues with mainland China, will not seek de jure Taiwan independence, and will oppose the use of force to resolve the Taiwan issue. This position is aimed at maintaining the status quo in the Taiwan Strait under the framework of the ROC Constitution. The two sides of the Taiwan Strait do not share a state-to-state relationship because the ROC is an independent sovereign state, and it cannot acknowledge that mainland China is an independent sovereign state. One is a state and the other is not, so naturally there is no state-to-state relationship between the two sides. Under the framework of Article 11 of Additional Articles of the ROC Constitution, mainland China refers to the Chinese mainland area. Therefore, this in no way touches on the issue of self-belittlement and is entirely in accordance with the Additional Articles of the ROC Constitutional and the Act Governing Relations Between People of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area.

December 21, 2008
At the closing ceremony for the 4th Cross-Straits Economic, Trade and Cultural Forum, Wang Yi, director of the CPC Central Committee's Taiwan Work Office, announces 10 policy measures to strengthen cross-strait cooperation and jointly respond to the international financial crisis.

December 23, 2008
The MAC indicates that the export certificates issued by mainland China for the export of giant pandas to Taiwan was prepared fully in accordance with past certifications and certificate format for exports of protected animals and plants to Taiwan from the Mainland. The place of import and the port of import are mentioned in the documents, respectively, as "Taiwan Taipei" and "TW TAIPEI," so there is no such thing as being dwarfed. The place of export and the port of export are listed, in accordance with actual circumstances, as "Wenchuan County, Sichuan" and "CHENGDU." The Taiwan side should not belittle itself by calling this a "city-to-city" mode.

December 24, 2008
While attending an elite symposium on "New Era, New Cross-strait Relations" in Changhua County, MAC Minister Lai Shin-yuan states that the objective of the new government's Mainland policy is to protect Taiwan's security, highlight Taiwan-centric consciousness and promote economic prosperity in Taiwan, as well as to maintain peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and peaceful development in East Asia. The government's recent promotion of institutionalized negotiations between the SEF and the ARATS and its various opening-up policies toward mainland China all conform to the principle of "putting Taiwan first for the benefit of the people." They are also positive efforts that accord with overall economic development strategy of "deeply cultivating Taiwan while linking up with the world." Their objective is to enhance the competitiveness of Taiwan, not to tilt Taiwan towards mainland China.

December 24, 2008
At a year-end press conference, Government Information Office Minister Vanessa Shih announces that the government will further allow Mainland singers and actors starring in cross-strait television programs and movies, as well as related technical personnel to visit Taiwan for filming purposes. Mainland recording artists will also be allowed to hold concerts in Taiwan. The government also hopes that the Mainland will make publication and book numbers available to Taiwan publishers to help them expand their Chinese language market. This issue has been included as one of the items for negotiations between the SEF and the ARATS.

December 25, 2008
During an Executive Yuan meeting, Premier Liu Chao-shiuan listens to a report presented by the Ministry of the Interior on draft amendments to the Permit Regulations Governing the Entry into the Mainland Area by Civil Servants and Personnel with Special Status in the Taiwan Area. Following the report, Premier Liu states that easing restrictions to allow civil servants with 11th grade of selected appointment rank and above as well as political appointees to visit the Mainland for official business and exchange activities and allowing mainland China's high-ranking government personnel to visit Taiwan are a concrete manifestation of Taiwan's opening-up measures and self-confidence. Such measures not only help civil servants to further understand mainland China, but they also have a positive impact on the development of cross-strait benign interactions.

December 25, 2008
The National Immigration Agency under the Ministry of the Interior revises and promulgates the Permit Regulations Governing the Entry into the Mainland Area by Civil Servants and Personnel with Special Status in the Taiwan Area, the Directions Governing Visits to the Mainland Area by Civil Servants with 10th Grade of Selected Appointment Rank and Below as well as Police Officers with Grade 4 Ranking and Below Whose Duties and Responsibilities Do Not Involve Confidential Matters on National Security, and the Permit Regulations Governing the Entry of Professionals of the Mainland Area into Taiwan for Professional Activities.

December 25, 2008
The MAC releases the results of its latest public opinion survey. The survey indicates that almost 70% (67.9%) of the people agree that cross-strait direct transport links are conducive to the enhancement of Taiwan's competitiveness. At the same time, more than 60% of the public (61.7%) believe that the direct transport links have a "positive impact" on Taiwan's economic development.

December 25, 2008
The State Development and Reform Commission and mainland Chinese State Council's Taiwan Affairs Office jointly issue the Relevant Provisions on the Administration of Mainland Enterprises' Investment Projects in the Taiwan Region. The Provisions clearly stipulate that the Mainland enterprise should "push forward the direct two-way investment across the Strait, to promote the joint economic coprosperity on both sides of the Strait, enhance the well-being of compatriots on both sides of the Strait, and boost the peaceful development of cross-strait relations." The Provisions also require that the Mainland enterprises investing in the Taiwan region shall be favorable to the peaceful development of cross-strait relations and not undermine national security and unification.

December 28, 2008
While attending the MAC-sponsored "Seminar on Mainland Affairs Work for High-level Officials of the Executive Yuan and its Subordinate Agencies," President Ma Ying-jeou states that in promoting cross-strait relations, government ministries should take the initiative in finding out what policies can "put Taiwan first for the benefit of the people" and devise ways for such policies to become issues to be negotiated and discussed between the SEF and the ARATS. Cross-strait exchanges should not be limited to just the issues of transportation and the economy. Negotiations also need to be held on cultural, educational and environmental protection issues.

December 31, 2008
In response to comments made by mainland Chinese President Hu Jintao, the MAC states that based on the principles of "shelving controversies and pursuing a win-win solution," the two sides should continue to steadily advance and jointly usher in a new era of peaceful development in cross-strait relations through benign interactions. The matters of a peace agreement, military confidence-building measures, and other related issues can be further deliberated once a sufficient degree of mutual trust has been established in cross-strait relations. The current economic and cultural exchange affairs and negotiations between the two sides are all matters that deeply concern the public and urgently need to be resolved. They also contribute to the formation of a solid foundation of mutual trust. The MAC urges the Mainland authorities to deeply understand the Taiwan people's expectations and need in participating in the international community, to extend the idea of peaceful development to interaction between the two sides in the international, military and political spheres, and to show wisdom in opening up a road for coexistence and co-prosperity between the two sides.

December 31, 2008
During a symposium in Beijing marking the 30th anniversary of the publication of the "Message to Compatriots in Taiwan," Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi says that, in keeping with the guiding principles of the CPC Central Committee's Taiwan-related work, China will keep a firm hold on the theme of peaceful development of cross-strait relations, properly carry out various Taiwan-related work, and strive to open up a new prospect in the peaceful development of cross-strait relations.

December 31, 2008
During a symposium in Beijing marking the 30th anniversary of the publication of the "Message to Compatriots in Taiwan," CPC General Secretary Hu Jintao offers six proposals on Taiwan: 1) To scrupulously abide by the "one China" principle and advance political mutual trust; 2) To advance economic cooperation and promote common development; 3) To promote Chinese culture and strengthen the spiritual cord; 4) To strengthen two-way visits of people and expand exchanges in various circles; 5) To safeguard national sovereignty and hold consultation on external affairs; and 6) To end the state of hostility and reach a peace agreement.