Mainland Affairs Council

January 1, 2014
While presiding at the 2014 national founding memorial and New Year's Day ceremony, President Ma Ying-jeou stated that the government made the 1992 Consensus—whereby each side acknowledges the existence of "one China" but maintains its own interpretation of what that means—the foundation on which to rebuild the cross-strait relationship. The government has also identified viable diplomacy as the means to avoid zero-sum diplomatic competition between the two sides. The Taiwan Strait is no longer a tense flashpoint, but rather, has become an avenue of peace and a gateway through which other countries can enter the Mainland Chinese market. The government has maintained a balanced strategy in promoting the development of external trade and investment relations. On the one hand, it has endeavored to improve the cross-strait relationship and increase bilateral trade and investment. At the same time, it is expanding international relations and participating in regional economic integration. These two approaches are complementary. The President also noted that completion of ECFA follow-up talks and agreements as well as Taiwan's membership in the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) and Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) are our unswerving goals. The government will adopt a dual-track approach and seek public unity to move forward at full speed.

January 15, 2014
Taiwan Affairs Office Spokesperson Ma Xiaoguang stated during a regular press conference that, in the new year, the Mainland would implement the overall planning of the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China related to Taiwan work, promote comprehensive development of cross-strait relations, and endeavor to make new progress in every field of cross-strait exchanges and cooperation. The Mainland hopes for the Cross-Strait Agreement on Trade in Services to soon come into effect and for the establishment of reciprocal institutions to be soon realized. The Spokesperson also noted that cross-strait negotiations are jointly arranged by the non-governmental organizations authorized by the two sides through consultations on an equal footing. The consistent position on cross-strait exchanges is that we are willing to extensively engage with people from all sectors in Taiwan who endorse and support peaceful development of cross-strait relations. The Spokesperson also reiterated that matters involving the participation of Taiwanese in the APEC informal leaders' meeting should be handled according to the relevant APEC memoranda of understanding. The Mainland also hopes for Taiwan to take the signing of the cross-strait agreement on cultural exchange into serious consideration and also to put it into effect as soon as possible.

January 24, 2014
At the 2014 Working Conference on Taiwan Affairs, Member of the Politburo Standing Committee of the Communist Party of China Yu Zhengsheng emphasized that Taiwan-related work must be considered and planned from the high vantage of achieving the great rejuvenation of the Chinese ethnic group, must continue endeavors to maintain the correct course and forward momentum of cross-strait relations, and must constantly solidify and deepen political, economic, cultural and social foundations for the peaceful development of cross-strait relations in order to create more favorable conditions for the realization of peaceful reunification. In the new year, the two sides should continue to enhance cross-strait political mutual trust and positive interactions, deepen various foundations for the peaceful development of cross-strait relations, continue to promote cross-strait consultations and negotiations, strengthen the overall design of cross-strait economic cooperation, expand and deepen exchanges of culture, education, technology and other areas, and continue to support and promote political dialogue between non-governmental sectors on both sides.

January 25, 2014
During a dinner with Taiwanese reporters stationed in Beijing, Director Zhang Zhijun of the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office expressed hope for the two sides to continuously consolidate and deepen mutual political trust, jointly uphold "the one-China framework," stand firm on the position towards Taiwan independence. This is the first year of the Mainland's comprehensive deepening of reforms in the economic field. The Mainland hopes for the dividends of the reforms to benefit Taiwan's industries and people and thus provide good opportunities for Taiwanese businesses to develop. Looking ahead this year, the Mainland hopes for the two sides to sign agreements on the avoidance of double taxation, seismological and meteorological cooperation, and trade in goods. Regarding the mutual establishment of institutions across the Taiwan Strait, Director Zhang noted that though some issues remain, they will gradually be resolved.

January 27, 2014
President Ma Ying-jeou stated during a reception in Honduras for the travelling press corps that the government has pursued a dignified and pragmatic policy of "viable diplomacy" to transform the "vicious cycle" of cross-strait relationship and international relations into a "virtuous cycle," as well as establish long-term relationships with diplomatic allies based on mutual benefit and common prosperity. The President also stated that the ROC government has consistently sought, under the framework of the ROC Constitution, to maintain the status quo of "no unification, no independence, and no use of force" in the Taiwan Strait, and to promote the peaceful development of cross-strait ties under the "1992 Consensus," whereby each side acknowledges the existence of "one China" but maintains its own interpretation of what that means. He noted that cross-strait relations are at their most stable and peaceful state in the past 60 years. So far the two sides have signed 19 agreements, making substantive achievements that have benefited Taiwan's economy and contributed to broader and deeper cross-strait ties. This progress has made people from both sides realize the importance of cross-strait peace.

January 27, 2014
Taiwan Affairs Office Director Zhang Zhijun stated in a Lunar New Year message that the Mainland will adhere to the principle of "one family across the Strait," continue to maintain the good momentum for peaceful development of cross-strait relations, raise the level of cross-strait economic cooperation, provide convenient conditions to expand contacts and deepen exchanges between compatriots on both sides of the Strait, and adopt measures to advance the welfare of compatriots on both sides.

January 27, 2014
In a Lunar New Year's message published in the first 2014 issue of "Relations Across Taiwan Straits" magazine, Taiwan Affairs Office Director Zhang Zhijun expressed hope that the two sides would continue to focus on consolidating and enhancing mutual political trust and maintaining the one-China framework; strengthen policy communication and coordination and upgrade the level of economic cooperation; advance consultations and negotiations between the SEF and the ARATS and achieve more results beneficial to the people; and expand friendly exchanges in all sectors to strengthen affinity between compatriots on both sides of the Strait and work together to make a beautiful Chinese homeland.

January 27, 2014
In a New Year's greeting published in the first 2014 issue of "Relations Across Taiwan Straits" magazine, ARATS Chairman Chen Deming stated that the Cross-Strait Agreement on Trade in Services is a major initiative to liberalize the trade in services market based on the ECFA early harvest list. The Mainland hopes that the agreement will come into effect as soon as possible to provide a good climate and a positive model for follow-up discussions on trade in goods. In addition, the Mainland will continue to accelerate negotiations on ECFA follow-up issues of trade in goods and dispute settlement mechanisms to promote cross-strait economic integration. It will also actively advance the mutual establishment of general institutions of the SEF and the ARATS and push forward the promotion of cross-strait exchange and cooperation so as to strengthen contacts with various sectors of Taiwan society, and together safeguard and promote peaceful development of cross-strait relations.

January 28, 2014
The MAC stated in a press release that Minister Wang Yu-chi accepted an invitation by Director Zhang Zhijun of the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office to lead a MAC delegation to visit Nanjing and Shanghai in the Mainland from February 11 to 14. During the visit, the heads of the competent authorities for cross-strait affairs will meet to communicate views on important cross-strait issues and related visits and events will also be carried out. Minister Wang will be the first MAC minister to visit the Mainland as an incumbent government official, which is a major significant index in the normalization of development in cross-strait relations. The MAC stressed that Minister Wang's visit would enhance mutual understanding and strengthen mutual trust between the two sides, as well as enable the competent authorities for cross-strait affairs on the two sides to openly communicate and efficiently handle cross-strait related affairs. Thus enhance the welfare of the people on both sides, work together to further institutionalize cross-strait relations and promote peaceful and stable development across the Taiwan Strait.

January 28, 2014
MAC Minister Wang Yu-chi stated in a speech presented at a year-end press conference that the MAC would prioritize four tasks this year: First, on the basis of the cross-strait agreements now in force, establish a national security review mechanism to conduct comprehensive security assessments of future pacts to be signed between the two sides so all sectors may have more peace of mind over institutionalized negotiations. Specifically, all cross-strait agreements negotiated and signed in the future will undergo a two-stage review. First the MAC, as an advisory unit, will submit reports to the Executive Yuan for interagency review. The approved reports will be submitted to the National Security Council to undergo a second-stage review by consulted experts and scholars to ensure that each cross-strait agreement will not negatively affect Taiwan's national security, national defense or society. The cross-strait collaboration agreements on meteorology and seismological monitoring, which are now closest to the signing stage, will serve as the first examples for the application of this mechanism. The second task is to complete the legislative review process for the Cross-Strait Agreement on Trade in Services and continue to promote public explanations and communication on the agreement to facilitate its enactment soon. The MAC will also continue to advance ECFA follow-up negotiations on the trade in goods and dispute settlement agreements to ensure the prudent and orderly progress of cross-strait economic and trade relations, and to protect Taiwan's long-term economic interests. At the same time, the signing of the Cross-Strait Agreement on Trade in Services and future ECFA follow-up agreements will pave the way for Taiwan's future accession to the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and other regional economic integration pacts, as well as trade liberalization. The third task is to promote the establishment of reciprocal institutions between the SEF and the ARATS. The realization of the establishment of the representative offices not only pertains to the protection of the people's rights and interests, but also affects the future direction of cross-strait relations. As for humanitarian visit functions, an issue closely watched by the ruling and opposition parties and the public, the government will actively seek to secure such functions for the offices in hopes that negotiations can be soon completed in order to protect the rights and interests of Taiwanese people in the Mainland area. The MAC hopes that the related legislative process can be soon completed to lay an important legal basis for the establishment of reciprocal institutions between the SEF and the ARATS. The fourth task is to promote the normalization of official interactions across the strait to enhance mutual understanding and trust. The main purpose of making visits to the Mainland is to enhance mutual understanding, enable the two sides to pragmatically discuss cross-strait affairs issues, and promote respective work through exchange visits by heads of the cross-strait competent authorities. The aim of this trip to the Mainland is to understand actual developments in different social aspects in the Mainland through visits, and to care for the Taiwanese's living conditions in Mainland. The visit will have major significance in the further institutionalization of cross-strait relations.

January 28, 2014
Taiwan Affairs Office Spokesperson Ma Xiaoguang announced in Beijing that after communication and consultations by cross-strait competent authorities on the two sides, the head of Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council, Wang Yu-chi, will lead a delegation to Nanjing and Shanghai from February 11 to 14. Taiwan Affairs Office Director Zhang Zhijun will then meet with Wang Yu-chi to exchange views on issues related to cross-strait relations.

January 29, 2014
The MAC released the results of its special public opinion survey on the "Public's Views on Exchange Visits by Heads of Competent Authorities for Cross-Strait Affairs and on Cross-Strait Relations." The survey found that the majority of the people approve the government's plans and arrangements for MAC Minister Wang Yu-chi to visit the Mainland under the principle of equality and dignity (55.8%), and think that the pragmatic discussion of issues related to cross-strait exchanges between heads of competent authorities for cross-strait affairs is beneficial to the development of cross-strait relations (60.5%). Furthermore, the MAC stated that the majority of the public endorse the government's arrangement of Minister Wang's Mainland visit based on the 1992 Consensus of one China with respective interpretations (52.6%); and on the policy position that the "1992 Consensus" is "one China with respective interpretations," in which "one China" is the Republic of China (55.6%). Regarding the use of official titles in the mutual address between Minister Wang and the director of the Taiwan Affairs Office during the meeting, over half of the public affirm that this is a significant development in cross-strait relations (54.8%) and is conducive to normal interactions between the two sides (57.1%).

February 5, 2014
President Ma Ying-jeou stated in a letter sent to Pope Francis of the Catholic Church in response to the Papal Message for World Day of Peace 2014 that political differences led to confrontation across the Taiwan Strait that continued for many years. By upholding the principles of "equality, dignity and reciprocity," Taiwan has resumed institutionalized negotiations with mainland China, and cross-strait relations have evolved from conflict to dialogue. So far 19 agreements and two points of consensus have been reached between the two sides. Cross-strait relations, which were once a source of tension and hostility, are today characterized by peace and stability. This development is in line with UN calls for nations to abide by international law and resolve international disputes through peaceful means.

February 5, 2014
MAC Minister Wang Yu-chi stated in a speech presented at the "2014 Lunar New Year Gathering for Taiwanese Businessmen in Mainland" held by the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) that the MAC this year would give priority to promotion of "national security review mechanism for institutionalized cross-strait negotiations", "strengthening promotion of ECFA follow-up negotiations and communication with the public" and tasks related to cross-strait agreements. Regarding the "national security review mechanism for institutionalized cross-strait negotiations," a national security review mechanism will be established on the foundation of the existing cross-strait agreements. All cross-strait agreements negotiated and signed in the future must undergo a two-stage review conducted by Executive Yuan's interagency mechanism and National Security Council, so that a comprehensive security assessment is assured. The national security review mechanism will be clearly institutionalized to ensure that no cross-strait agreement would have negative impact on national security. In terms of "strengthening promotion of ECFA follow-up negotiations and communication to the public," the MAC will continue to promote ECFA follow-up negotiations while make more efforts to more fully communicate and explain to the public, congress and media in the agreement signing process.

February 11, 2014
The MAC stated in a press release that MAC Minister Wang Yu-chi and Director Zhang Zhijun of the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) held the first meeting between the heads of the competent authorities for cross-strait affairs in Nanjing, mainland China. The MAC stated that the successful meeting is an important milestone in the development of cross-strait relations and has positive implications for the normalization of official interactions and exchanges across the Taiwan Strait. In a speech presented at the meeting, Minister Wang stated that the start of this phase of interaction concretely demonstrates the willingness of the two sides to objectively face affairs, and plays great significance in the progress of pragmatically handling cross-strait issues and safeguarding the public's wellbeing between the two sides. The MAC stated that, under the principles of equality and dignity, the two sides agreed to establish a liaison and communication mechanism between the MAC and TAO to pragmatically discuss and address major issues deriving from cross-strait interactions and exchanges. The mechanism will handle issues such as high-level exchange visits by the heads of the two organizations and the strengthening of communication channels between the operational departments (bureaus) on both sides. Under the mechanism, the two sides have agreed to grant facilitation measures for the entry-exit and customs clearance of related personnels in keeping with the principle of equality and mutual benefit and in adherence to respective laws and regulations.
Regarding the issue of humanitarian visiting functions for the reciprocal institutions of the SEF and the ARATS, Minister Wang emphasized that Taiwan's institution functions should include the right to visit Taiwanese citizens whose personal freedom have been restricted in the Mainland. The two sides also agreed to more proactively discuss feasible measures and pragmatically handle issues related to the establishment of reciprocal institutions. Furthermore, Minister Wang affirmed and welcomed the value placed by the Mainland on the issue of medical coverage for Taiwanese students studying at Mainland schools, and stated that the Taiwan side should continue to actively push for the inclusion of Mainland students in Taiwan into the Taiwan National Health Insurance program. During the meeting, Minister Wang emphasized that at this stage, the two sides should discuss this matter in tandem with the issues of the reciprocal exchange of news information across the Taiwan Strait, so as to facilitate improvements of the overall environment for cross-strait news information, as well as continue to provide the living conveniences for stationed reporters. Minister Wang also stated that promoting accession to the Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement and Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (TPP) Agreement is a major economic and trade priority for Taiwan at this time. Deepening and expanding cross-strait economic cooperation and joint cross-strait participation in regional economic integration should "advance side-by-side".
The MAC stated that the "1992 Consensus" is the crux of institutionalized cross-strait negotiations, interactions and exchanges. In the future, both sides should continue to promote mutually beneficial relations across the Strait so that the people on both sides can enjoy the fruits of the peaceful development of cross-strait relations. Minister Wang also formally invited Director Zhang Zhijun to lead a delegation to visit Taiwan so as to gain a deeper awareness and understanding of Taiwanese society and popular sentiment.

February 11, 2014
Director Zhang Zhijun of the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) stated during a formal meeting in Nanjing with MAC Minister Wang Yu-chi that imagination would be required to resolve some difficult issues in the development of cross-strait relations. Cross-strait relations cannot be reversed. He also stressed that the two sides should continue to promote cross-strait relations on the basis of adhering to the "1992 Consensus." The normalized communication and liaison mechanisms established between the TAO and the MAC will help both sides to strengthen communication, increase understanding, and promote the appropriate handling and resolution of prominent problems encountered in the course of cross-strait exchanges. However, this mechanism will not replace the functions of SEF-ARATS negotiation on routine affairs and agreement signing, nor will it change the liaison and communication methods of the other competent operational units of the two sides.

February 12, 2014
During a meeting with a delegation led by Premier of Canada's Province of Prince Edward Island Robert W.J. Ghiz, President Ma Ying-jeou stated that, cross-strait relations have seen substantive progress over the past five-plus years. Besides the signing of 19 agreements, the two sides are now negotiating an agreement on the trade in goods. Furthermore, officials from the respective agencies responsible for cross-strait affairs have formally met and referred to each other by their official titles for the first time in the 65 years since each side of the Taiwan Strait came under the rule of different governments in 1949. He hailed this as an important milestone in the history of cross-strait exchanges, saying that this creates a new foundation for the long-term development of cross-strait relations. The president also said this will be conducive to Taiwan continuing to expand its relations in the international arena.

February 12, 2014
The MAC stated in a press release that MAC Minister Wang Yu-chi led the MAC delegation to Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum in Nanjing to pay homage and honor the memory of Dr. Sun Yat-sen, and Minister Wang also served as officiate of the memorial service. The service oration described Dr. Sun's great achievements as leader of the revolution and founding father of the Republic of China, as well as reported on the concrete realization in Taiwan of the Three Principles of the People, Five-Power Constitution and other ideals and principles of Dr. Sun. The oration further expounded on the recent significant improvement and developments in cross-strait relations achieved on the basis of the "1992 Consensus," and expressed hope that the two sides may jointly carry forward Dr. Sun Yat-sen's ideals and contribute to world harmony. Minister Wang pointed out that the first democratic republic in Asia—the Republic of China—was founded by Dr. Sun Yat-sen 103 years ago. Since 2008, peaceful and stable development of cross-strait relations has been achieved through institutionalized negotiations and cross-strait exchanges and cooperation based on the "1992 Consensus." In the future, it is crucial that the two sides must face up to the reality across the Strait and pragmatically deal with and resolve issues in order to build lasting and solid cross-strait relations, enhance the welfare of the people, and turn the Taiwan Strait into a sea of peace and cooperation.

February 12, 2014
The MAC issued a press release announcing that MAC Minister Wang Yu-chi stated in a speech at Nanjing University (NJU) that exchanges between youth on both sides of the Taiwan Strait are conducive to mutual understanding. He urged the two sides to pragmatically confront their differences and form friendships in sincerity and good faith so as to truly put aside differences, seek common ground, and create a new future, which would also conform to the spirit of the verse from NJU's anthem: "What greatness, to move the world with our sincerity!" Minister Wang also encouraged young students across the Strait to discuss reforms in the spirit of "chivalry" and "compassion." Therefore, not only should the rights and interests of Mainland students and spouses be treated without discrimination, but priority should also be given to discussion of granting Taiwan's institution to be established in the Mainland humanitarian visiting functions, as these issues all represent values of importance to Taiwan. Minister Wang further said that by dedicating more sincerity in overcoming historical barriers and facing the reality of their differences, youths of the two sides may truly put aside these differences, seek common ground and usher in a new future. At the same time, through interaction, the two sides may foster more pragmatic understanding and mutual political trust and forge a real consensus in order to pass down national culture, enrich the people's life and jointly embrace a more harmonious cross-strait relationship.

February 13, 2014
The MAC issued a press release announcing that MAC Minister Wang Yu-chi stated during a panel discussion with scholars at the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences that his visit represented an important step in the development of benign cross-strait interactions, and that the two sides must mutually understand, tolerate and face each other in order for cross-strait relations to move forward. Minister Wang expressed confidence for future cross-strait relations to proceed upon the current peaceful and stable path. During the discussion, he also stated that foreign trade is the lifeblood of Taiwan and that signing free trade agreements (FTAs) with other countries, Taiwan's accession to the Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPP) and to Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (RCEP) are the common aspiration of Taiwan. He also stressed that Taiwan places equal importance on its participation in the TPP and RCEP. Furthermore, Minister Wang emphasized that public support in Taiwan for maintaining the cross-strait status quo represents the mainstream public opinion in Taiwan, and that future development of cross-strait relations will continue to be steadily promoted on this foundation.

February 16, 2014
President Ma Ying-jeou stated when attending a Lunar New Year celebration organized by the "New Alliance Association" that the government's Mainland policy has always adhered to the framework of the ROC Constitution and on the foundation of the "1992 Consensus of one China, with respective interpretations," maintained the status quo of "no unification, no independence and no use of force," and promoted peaceful cross-strait development. Recently MAC Minister Wang Yu-chi visited the Mainland and met with his counterpart, Director Zhang Zhijun of the Taiwan Affairs Office. This was the first official meeting in 65 years since the two sides came under separate rule and also the first meeting of the heads of the cross-strait competent authorities. The two sides also addressed each other by their official titles, representing a major step forward in the normalization of cross-strait relations. Furthermore, this year the government plans to increase the quota of Mainland independent travelers allowed visiting Taiwan. It will also continue to promote the mutual establishment of institutions and deepen exchanges across the Taiwan Strait, as well as comprehensively review and amend the "Act Governing Relations between the People of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area" to enable the sustained and stable development of cross-strait relations.

February 17, 2014
Taiwan Affairs Office spokesperson Fan Liqing stated at a regular news conference that the first meeting between the heads of cross-strait competent authorities is an important step in promoting the development of meetings between the two sides. The meeting was held on a common political foundation and rooted in the spirit of mutual respect, seeking common ground while putting aside differences and positive interaction. The meeting focused on the timely and proper handling of prominent issues encountered in the course of cross-strait exchanges. As for politically sensitive issues between the two sides, such matters should be resolved through political dialogues and negotiations. Furthermore, the Mainland has always taken a positive and open attitude towards a meeting between the leaders of the two sides. As for a meeting at APEC, it should be handled according to the relevant stipulations of the APEC memorandum of understanding.

February 18, 2014
During a meeting with KMT Honorary Chairman Lien Chan in Beijing, General Secretary of the CPC Central Committee Xi Jinping expressed hope that the two sides would promote the peaceful development of cross-strait relations in keeping with the principle of "one family across the Strait." The two sides of the Taiwan Strait both belong to one country and are one ethnic group. This has never changed and cannot be changed. The Mainland respects the social system and way of life chosen by Taiwan compatriots. It is also willing to share with Taiwan compatriots the development opportunities in the Mainland. The two sides must consolidate and adhere to the common basis of the "1992 consensus" and opposing "Taiwan independence," as well as deepen and uphold the joint acknowledgement of the one-China framework. The meeting between the heads of the competent authorities for cross-strait affairs on the two sides achieved a positive consensus and has positive significance in promoting the comprehensive development of cross-strait relations. Furthermore, the Mainland is willing, under the one China framework, to hold equal negotiations with the Taiwan side on the issue of long-standing political differences and make sensible and reasonable arrangements.

February 19, 2014
Member of the Politburo Standing Committee of the Communist Party of China and Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference Yu Zhengsheng stated at a symposium in Beijing attended by persons of various sectors from both sides of the Strait that enhancing mutual political trust and consolidating a common basis are the keys to ensuring the peaceful development of cross-strait relations. As long as the two sides maintain and deepen joint acknowledgement of the one-China framework on the basis of opposing "Taiwan independence" and adhering to the "1992 Consensus," cross-strait relations will advance steadily and far. The two sides should continue to deepen cross-strait exchanges and cooperation in various fields, promote consultations on related issues, and develop the active role of the liaison and communication mechanism between the competent authorities for cross-strait affairs on the two sides to enable more people on both sides, especially at the grassroots level, to participate in cross-strait exchanges and cooperation, and strengthen the foundation for the peaceful development of cross-strait relations.

February 20-21, 2014
The SEF and the ARATS held the second Cross-strait Agreement Result and Review Meeting in Changsha, Hunan. SEF Vice Chairman Chang Hsien-yao led Taiwan's negotiation team and ARATS Executive Vice Chairman Zheng Lizhong led the ARATS negotiation team in the discussions. During the meeting, the two sides reviewed the implementation status and results of the agreements signed between the two sides. They jointly confirmed the follow-up handling approaches in areas requiring strengthening or improvement in the agreement implementation process. Furthermore, the two sides exchanged views on arrangements for the working talks on the Tenth Round of Cross-Strait High-Level Talks between the SEF and the ARATS.

February 21, 2014
Taiwan Affairs Office Director Zhang Zhijun stated during an interview with a Xinhua News Agency reporter in Beijing that "one family across the Strait" mainly reflects a concern for the sincere emotion and clear understanding in taking good care of Taiwan compatriots. Cross-strait relations have gone from the start-up stage to a new stage of consolidation and deepening. More challenges will be faced and political issues can not be avoided and will require greater courage and confidence by the two sides to resolve. Furthermore, compatriots on both sides should support each other, jointly participate in the process of national rejuvenation, link the Chinese Dream and the dream of Taiwan compatriots, and make this the main theme of peaceful development of cross-strait relations. At this time, maintaining the peaceful and stable environment for development, supporting the advancement of cross-strait consultations and negotiations, deepening exchanges and cooperation, and maintaining the right direction of peaceful development of cross-strait relations, are supports of the realization of the Chinese Dream.

February 25, 2014
President Ma Ying-jeou stated during a meeting with American Institute in Taiwan Managing Director Joseph R. Donovan Jr. that the government has consistently sought, under the framework of the ROC Constitution, to maintain the status quo of "no unification, no independence, and no use of force" in the Taiwan Strait, and to promote the peaceful development of cross-strait ties under the "1992 Consensus," whereby each side acknowledges the existence of "one China" but maintains its own interpretation of what that means. President Ma further stated that MAC Minister Wang Yu-chi made a visit to mainland China and met with his counterpart there, Director Zhang Zhijun of the Taiwan Affairs Office. This was the first official meeting of the heads of the respective agencies responsible for cross-strait affairs since the two sides came under separate rule 65 years ago. The meeting represents the gradual institutionalization of relations between the two sides. Both sides are accepting political realities, which is an important and positive development.

February 25, 2014
The MAC announced the results of the special public opinion survey on the "Public's Views on Cross-Strait Official Interactions and Cross-Strait Relations." The survey indicated that more than 60% of the public affirm Minister Wang's first visit to the Mainland in an official capacity and the holding of the meeting between the heads of cross-strait competent authorities. The survey also pointed out that the said developments were conducive to direct interaction between officials across the Strait (65.1%) and also to the future development of cross-strait relations (61%). Furthermore, 63.1% people affirm that the establishment of routine communication mechanism between the MAC and the Taiwan Affairs Office is helpful to the handling of cross-strait affairs. The MAC stated that, in the future, it would use this mechanism and channel to efficiently communicate with the other side, pragmatically handle major issues related to cross-strait interactions, and enhance benefits of cross-strait exchanges and well being of the people. Meanwhile, on the basis of public opinion, the MAC will continue to promote the normalization of official cross-strait interactions so as to facilitate long-term development of cross-strait institutionalized relations and promote sustainable peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. Regarding the negotiation issues at the "Tenth Round of Cross-Strait High-Level Talks" by the SEF and the ARATS, the majority of the surveyed public expressed support for negotiation issues concerning "cross-strait meteorological cooperation" (67.9%) and "earthquake monitoring cooperation" (72.6%).

February 26, 2014
President Ma Ying-jeou stated at the International Conference on Peace and Security in East Asia that the government has actively pushed for rapprochement across the Taiwan Strait. Under the framework of the ROC Constitution, a status quo of "no independence, no unification, and no use of force" is being maintained, while peaceful cross-strait developments are being promoted based on the 1992 Consensus of "one China, respective interpretations." MAC Minister Wang Yu-chi and Director Zhang Zhijun of the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office had a historic meeting in Nanjing. This marked the first official meeting between high-ranking officials in the 65 years the two sides have been separately governed. The two heads also addressed each other by their official titles. It was therefore a significant milestone in the history of cross-strait exchanges. The international community has recognized the significance of the meeting. This reflects the enormous progress made in cross-strait relations, as well as the government's resolution in maintaining peace and prosperity.

February 26, 2014
Taiwan Affairs Office Spokesperson Ma Xiaoguang stated at a regular news conference that the implementations of the cross-strait agreements should be viewed from a perspective of mutual benefit and comprehensive objectivity . If people from all sectors on both sides can embrace this attitude, the cross-strait agreements will be implemented even better. The matter of a meeting between the leaders of the two sides is a cross-strait affair and does not require the support of an international forum. The two sides can and deserve to use their imagination. Furthermore, on strengthening cross-strait cooperation in the waters of the East China Sea and South China Sea, the Mainland hopes the two sides can work together to safeguard the inheritance left by their ancestors.

February 27, 2014
The MAC issued a press release announcing that MAC Minister Wang Yu-chi stated during the meeting with Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Straits (ARATS) Chairman Chen Deming and the ARATS negotiation delegation that the competent authorities for cross-strait affairs on the two sides have established a liaison and communication mechanism. However, there are still many issues relevant to people's livelihood and well being that must be addressed through the platform of the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) and the ARATS. The two organizations are especially irreplaceable in their function of providing service to Taiwanese businesspeople. Minister Wang also expressed hope that both sides would continue, on the basis of the "1992 Consensus," to address realities and promote the development of cross-strait relations. During the meeting, Minister Wang especially noted that foreign trade is not a matter of politics but of survival for Taiwan. The Mainland should welcome Taiwan's participation in the Trans-Pacific Partnership, Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership and other arrangements for regional economic integration. Minister Wang said that the two sides are not in a zero-sum relationship and should jointly promote prosperity and development.

February 27, 2014
The Tenth Round of Cross-Strait High-Level Talks between the SEF and the ARATS was held in Taipei. SEF Chairman Lin Join-sane and ARATS Chairman Chen Deming signed the Cross-Strait Collaboration Agreement on Meteorology and the Cross-Strait Collaboration Agreement on Seismological Monitoring. During the meeting, the two sides both agreed that the "Cross-Strait Trade in Goods Agreement," "Dispute Settlement Agreement," "cooperation on the avoidance of double taxation and strengthening of tax cooperation," "SEF-ARATS reciprocal establishment of institutions," "cross-strait cooperation on environmental protection," and "flight safety and airworthiness standards cooperation" should be included as negotiation issues for the eleventh round of talks and that any of the agreements can be signed once consensus is reached.

February 28, 2014
The MAC stated in a press release that the Cross-Strait Collaboration Agreement on Seismological Monitoring and Cross-Strait Collaboration Agreement on Meteorology signed at the Tenth Round of Cross-Strait High-Level Talks between the SEF and the ARATS will help the two sides to more accurately track seismic activity and weather system information, upgrade seismic and meteorological monitoring and early warning capabilities, and will also further protect the safety of people's lives and properties across the Strait. The MAC further stated that issues on the negotiation agenda for the 11th round of talks may include ECFA follow-up negotiation issues such as the Cross-Strait Trade in Goods Agreement and Dispute Settlement Agreement, other issues may include "cooperation on the avoidance of double taxation and strengthening of tax cooperation", "SEF-ARATS reciprocal establishment of institutions", and "cross-strait cooperation on environmental protection," "flight safety and airworthiness standards." The MAC will coordinate with the competent authorities and carefully deliberate and promote the negotiation work.
The MAC stated that each of the agreements signed between the two sides has enhanced the public's well being and maintained the order of exchanges. On this basis, the regular communication and liaison mechanisms between the competent authorities for cross-strait affairs on the two sides will, in the future, have synergistic function and benefit in institutionalized cross-strait negotiations, while at the same time, further contribute to peaceful development across the Taiwan Strait.

March 2014
The SEF and the ARATS held the fifth round of talks on operational issues in March on establishing cross-strait representative institutions between the two sides. Both sides expressed the view that the institutions should be granted humanitarian visiting functions and agreed to continue communication on this issue.

March 3, 2014
Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) Yu Zhengsheng stated in a work report at the opening of the Second Session of the 12th CPPCC National Committee that the important concept of peaceful development of cross-strait relations should be fully realized. Exchange visits between CPPCC members and Taiwan legislators should be arranged and friendly contacts with social organizations and groups in Taiwan should be strengthened to vigorously advocate the principle of "one family across the Strait."

March 5, 2014
President Ma Ying-jeou stated during a meeting with Hawaii's East-West Center's 2014 Asia Pacific Journalism Fellowships recipients that the Republic of China (ROC) intends to act as a peacemaker. Over the past six years, the ROC government has strived to improve cross-strait relations, which has reduced tensions between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait. To date, the two sides have signed 21 agreements and reached two consensuses, which have enabled the Taiwan Strait to transform from a battlefield into a boulevard of peace. In mid-February this year, MAC Minister Wang Yu-chi met with his mainland Chinese counterpart Zhang Zhijun, Director of the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, in Nanjing. This marked the first time in the 65 years since the two sides of the Taiwan Strait came under separate rule that the top officials for cross-strait affairs from the two sides have met. Consequently, this meeting carried important significance for cross-strait relations and the development of peace.

March 5, 2014
PRC Premier Li Keqiang stated in a Government Work Report at the Second Session of the 12th National People's Congress that the Mainland would fully realize its major Taiwan work policies, adhere to the "1992 Consensus," uphold the "one China" framework, consolidate and enhance mutual political trust across the Taiwan Strait, promote economic integration, advance exchanges and cooperation, develop consultations and negotiations, and uphold the principle of "one family across the Strait" to contribute to the development of a beautiful Chinese homeland and realization of a peaceful reunification of the motherland.

March 5, 2014
Taiwan Affairs Office Director Zhang Zhijun stated at the plenary meeting of the Taiwan delegation at the Second Session of the 12th National People's Congress that this year's Taiwan-related work would continue to focus on consolidation of a political foundation for peaceful development of cross-strait relations, and fulfill the policy of placing hopes on the Taiwan people. The Mainland will continue to deepen cross-strait economic exchanges and cooperation and expand the common interests of the two sides. Meanwhile it will also continue to promote consultations and negotiations between the two sides and strive to complete ECFA follow-up negotiations within this year.

March 5, 2014
Taiwan Affairs Office Director Zhang Zhijun stated in a media interview during the Second Session of the 12th National People's Congress that the Mainland has always held a positive and open attitude towards a meeting between the leaders on the two sides. As for the occasion of the meeting, an international forum is unnecessary. Regarding the establishment of a cross-strait military mutual trust mechanism, the two sides have long had some political differences. The Mainland advocates that both sides should, within the "one China" framework, hold consultations on an equal footing to make reasonable arrangements.

March 8, 2014
Member of the CPPCC Standing Committee and ARATS Chairman Chen Deming stated during an interview in Beijing with China News Service reporters that the Mainland will seek to complete the negotiation and signing of ECFA follow-up agreements within this year, including pacts on the trade in goods and dispute settlement mechanisms. It will also promptly promote the establishment of reciprocal institutions between the SEF and the ARATS. The next step will be to promote the negotiation and signing of cross-strait agreements on civil aviation flight standards and airworthiness cooperation, as well as a framework agreement for cross-strait cooperation on environmental protection. Furthermore, while promoting cross-strait cooperation in economic and other areas, the Mainland will, under the “1992 consensus" and "one China framework," respect the social system and way of life chosen by Taiwan compatriots. The Mainland is also willing to share its development opportunities with Taiwan compatriots.

March 13, 2014
President Ma Ying-jeou stated at the Fulbright Grantees Research Workshop that peace across the Taiwan Strait is the cornerstone of stability and prosperity in East Asia. The government has resumed the negotiation mechanism with the other side on the basis of the "1992 consensus of one China with respective interpretations." On the consensus of "shelving our differences and pursuing our common ground," the two sides have been able to conclude 21 agreements and reached two consensuses covering a wide range of issues. The President also stated that the Cross-Strait Trade in Services Agreement is now under review by the Legislative Yuan. Under the agreement, the Mainland will open 84 service categories to Taiwan, some of them exceeding the standards of the World Trade Organization ("WTO Plus"). Clearly this will help Taiwanese companies break new ground in the Mainland market and accelerate Taiwan's participation in regional economic integration. President Ma called on the Legislative Yuan to pass the agreement as soon as possible to demonstrate to other countries Taiwan's determination and credibility in pursuing trade liberalization. The President further stated that universities and academic institutions on both sides have signed more than 6,000 cooperation agreements; the government has also signed meteorological and seismological cooperation agreements with the Mainland, deepened exchanges in related fields and proved the fact that there is room for cross-strait cooperation in science and high-tech fields. President Ma stressed that the government will establish review mechanisms for science and technology cooperation from a national security perspective to ensure the safety and security of information flow and cooperation plans. He also hoped that both sides may continue to carry out dialogues and cooperation, and jointly create a win-win outcome.

March 17, 2014
The MAC stated in a press release that failure to pass and implement the Trade in Services Agreement would have three major affects: 1. Lose opportunities for Taiwan's service industry to enter the Mainland market, and Taiwanese companies will face greater difficulties in that market; 2. Delay the pace of Taiwan's accession to the Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPP) and Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (RCEP), which will result in economical marginalization for Taiwan; and 3. Delay the progress of the Cross-Strait Trade in Goods Agreement and ECFA follow-up negotiations and increase the difficulty of cross-strait negotiations. The MAC called on the people of Taiwan to face up to the fact that the Mainland is an important trading partner of Taiwan and to rationally treat the development of cross-strait economic and trade relations. The MAC also stated that the government has, in accordance with the views of various parties, strengthened related safety management and guidance and relief support measures. The MAC stated that the executive branch has never been opposed to the Trade in Services Agreement undergoing congressional review, and it fully respects review procedures of the Legislative Yuan. Yet Taiwan is now at a major juncture in its economic development; the government hopes that all sectors will support the prompt completion of the relevant procedures for the Trade in Services Agreement to help forge a road ahead for Taiwan's economy.

March 18, 2014
The MAC stated in a press release that the executive branch respects related procedures of the Legislative Yuan in its review of the Cross-Strait Trade in Services Agreement. Moreover, in response to the concern of various sectors over the potential impact of the agreement, the government would continue to explain to the public. Related safeguard mechanisms have been established for both the agreement and current existing regulations. In the event the implementation of the agreement adversely affects the service sector and labors, the government has formulated a "Program to Assist Industries in Adjusting to Trade Liberalization". The program provides three adjustment support strategies targeted at different groups, being revitalization guidance, industrial transformation and damage relief to upgrade companies' competitiveness and guide their transformation, while also providing employment counseling, skill training and subsidy support for affected workers. The MAC stated that the Trade in Services Agreement is not only related to the development of Taiwan's service industry, but also to the progress of cross-strait trade in goods agreement negotiations, Taiwan's free trade agreement negotiations with other countries and accession to the Trans-Pacific Partnership, the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership and other arrangements for regional economic integration. The government will continue to adhere to the initial intention of "helping the people do business and increasing Taiwan's competitiveness," create a sound competitive environment for industries, and continue efforts to enhance the well-being of the people.

March 20, 2014
President Ma Ying-jeou stated during a meeting with participants from seminar on "Mainland China's Reform and Transition?” that, under the framework of the ROC Constitution, the government has maintained the status quo of "no unification, no independence, and no use of force" in the Taiwan Strait and promoted the peaceful development of cross-strait ties under the "1992 Consensus of one China, with respective interpretations." Moreover, institutionalized negotiations have gradually established order in cross-strait exchanges. Cross-strait ties and international relations have changed from a "vicious cycle" into a "virtuous cycle." The government will continue to pursue the development of cross-strait relations in a stable and active manner, and will also engage in comprehensive planning and assessment so that it can adopt appropriate methods to maintain sustainable peace and prosperity on the two sides of the Taiwan Strait.

March 23, 2014
President Ma Ying-jeou stated during an international press conference on the Cross-Strait Trade in Services Agreement that Taiwan signing the agreement with the Mainland is entirely for the sake of Taiwan's economic future. Taiwan has a small and open economy. External trade accounts for 70 percent of economic growth. Taiwan has only signed seven FTAs or ECAs, far behind Singapore, the Republic of Korea, Japan and the Mainland. Tariffs are levied on the export at rates higher than other countries. Therefore, we must try to sign more FTAs as soon as possible so that we will not be marginalized. Furthermore, the services agreement falls under the Cross-Straits Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA), and if it is not passed, it will seriously damage Taiwan's international credibility and cross-strait relations, hamper Taiwan's efforts to liberalize trade. It will certainly affect Taiwan's chances of joining the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). The President stated that Taiwan's innovative and high-quality service industry has high-caliber human resources. Mainland China is the world's second largest economy and Taiwan's leading trade partner, and it too is actively developing its service industry. Upon passage of the Cross-Strait Trade in Services Agreement, the Mainland would further open its markets to Taiwan's service providers and offer them conditions better than those available to firms from other countries. Furthermore, the agreement does not allow labor, immigrants or publishers from mainland China to come to Taiwan. The 80 sectors to be opened to Taiwan by the Mainland are all applicable to Taiwan's small and medium enterprises and do not merely favor big corporations. Overall, the services agreement was signed in accordance with the principle of "putting Taiwan first for the benefit of the people." For Taiwan, the benefits far outweigh the disadvantages. The President expressed hope that the Trade in Services Agreement could be reviewed and voted upon article by article.

March 26, 2014
During an exclusive interview with the U.K. "The Economist", President Ma Ying-jeou stated that the Trade in Services Agreement is part of the Cross-Straits Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA). Failure to pass it would affect the upcoming signing of the Trade in Goods Agreement with the Mainland. Moreover, the international community would question the sincerity and determination of Taiwan's hope to participate in regional economic integration. If the agreement is rejected, Taiwan could be regarded as an unreliable trade partner, which would be very detrimental to Taiwan's international involvement. Furthermore, the President stated that he has always been open-minded about a meeting with PRC President Xi Jinping. Moreover, to avoid concerns over title and the occasion of such a meeting, he suggested last year that the meeting could be arranged through participation in the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), which is also strongly supported by the people of Taiwan. However, the Mainland does not want the meeting to be held at an international forum. The President hoped that in the future the two sides could again create appropriate conditions.

March 26, 2014
Taiwan Affairs Office Spokesperson Ma Xiaoguang stated at a regular press conference that, with respect to the dispute over the Cross-Strait Trade in Services Agreement, the various stages in the development of cross-strait economic cooperation over the past more than 20 years have contributed in varying degree to cross-strait economic development and public well-being. Looking to the future, all agree that "peace benefits both sides, while division harms both sides." None of the compatriots on either side of the Strait wish to see the progress of cross-strait economic cooperation obstructed. The Trade in Services Agreement is an economic pact that is part of the overall progress of economic liberalization, globalization, and regional economic integration; neither side may sidestep this matter. Moreover, cross-strait economic development can bring about practical effects that benefit and complement each other. The societies on both sides should jointly cherish and maintain the current hard-won peaceful development of cross-strait relations. The Spokesperson also stated that the Mainland's guiding policies on Taiwan enjoy a high level of public support in the Mainland. The policies originate from the feelings of "one family across the Strait" and aim to promote peaceful development of cross-strait relations, and realize mutual benefits and win-win solutions on both sides. It is hoped that the Taiwan society may fully understand the feelings of the Mainland people.

March 27, 2014
MAC Minister Wang Yu-chi stated at a regular press conference that the government has always closely watched the views expressed by various sectors of society on the Cross-Strait Trade in Services Agreement, as well as understands and respects the expectations of all sides regarding the government's handling of the agreement. At this stage, there are still many different opinions on cross-strait policy in Taiwan that require further discussion and consensus building. Cross-strait peace is the shared hope of the Taiwanese people and it also corresponds with Taiwan's best interests. Minister Wang expressed hope that the dispute over the Cross-Strait Trade in Services Agreement would not affect normal exchanges and interactions across the Taiwan Strait. The government will most certainly make utmost efforts to communicate with all sectors of the society and continue to promote peaceful and stable development across the Strait.
Minister Wang further stated that the article-by-article review and vote upon the agreement proposed by the students opposing the agreement was the outcome of consultations between the ruling and opposition parties last year. The executive branch also supports this position. However, if any article were rejected during the article-by-article vote, it would be tantamount to restarting the negotiations; and the public must understand that negotiations cannot be restarted unilaterally by Taiwan alone. As to whether or not auxiliary resolutions or other methods are called for during the final review process, the executive branch will respect the outcome of the Legislative Yuan review. Minister Wang also stated that the legislation for a cross-strait agreement monitoring mechanism should avoid constitutional disputes. The government has proposed a four-stage mechanism for supervision and communication on cross-strait agreements, including communication with congress and the public during the stages of issue formation, talks on operational issues, before signing the agreement and after signing the agreement. The MAC has deliberated the specifics of the communication mechanism and will make a public announcement.

March 29, 2014
During an international press conference on the recent student movement, President Ma Ying-jeou stated that the government supports the institutionalization of a mechanism for oversight of cross-strait agreements. He called upon the Legislative Yuan to complete this before the end of this current session of the legislature. The President further noted that the government supports an article-by-article review and vote upon the agreement by the Legislative Yuan, but it does not agree that the Executive Yuan should withdraw the agreement as the harm caused to Taiwan would be too great. The President stated that the government promotes the Trade in Services Agreement to stimulate Taiwan's service sector, ensure Taiwan's economic vitality and create conditions conducive to Taiwan participating in the process of economic integration in the Asia-Pacific region. The Cross-Strait Trade in Services Agreement is part of the Cross-Straits Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA), which is a bilateral trade pact under the World Trade Organization (WTO). If the services agreement is not passed, it would severely damage Taiwan's credibility in the international community, hamper Taiwan's efforts to liberalize trade, and affect Taiwan's chances of joining the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).

April 2014
The SEF and ARATS in late April held the sixth talks on operations issues related to the establishment of reciprocal institutions. The two sides exchanged views on the text of codes of conduct and related content.

April 3, 2014
The MAC stated in a press release that in response to the public's demand for supervision of cross-strait agreements and national security concerns in the negotiation process, the MAC has established a "four-stage external communication and consultation mechanism" and a "national security review mechanism" under the existing regulatory framework of the Act Governing Relations between the People of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area. Moreover, in reference to the intent of Judicial Yuan interpretations, stipulations under the Exercise of Legislative Powers Law, and the precedent of international and cross-strait agreement procedures. The MAC-formulated draft Statute for the Processing and Monitoring of Agreements between the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area has been approved by the Executive Yuan and submitted to the Legislative Yuan for review.
The MAC stated that legislation on the processing and monitoring of cross-strait agreements should be consistent with the constitutional system and should take into account the requirements of negotiations. The MAC has formulated a constitutional, pragmatic and feasible legal system for the processing and monitoring of cross-strait agreements while balancing the need to protect the public's right to know and with consideration to negotiation requirements. The Legislative Yuan is urged to complete the legislation as soon as possible so as to satisfy the public's demands for strengthened congressional oversight.

April 4, 2014
The MAC stated in a press release that the Executive Yuan version of the draft Cross-Strait Agreement Supervisory Act specifies that the executive branch shall fully communicate and consult with the Legislative Yuan President and Vice President, ruling and opposition party members, related committees and conveners or members at the four stages of "negotiation issue formation," "operational talks on negotiation issues," "before signing the agreement," and "after signing the agreement." The draft also stipulates that the views of related parties in the Legislative Yuan shall serve as references in the agreement negotiations, signing and implementation. Once cross-strait agreements have been signed, they shall be submitted to the Legislative Yuan either for review or record as mandated by law, where the Legislative Yuan may exercise full supervisory powers consistent with the constitutional principle of separation of powers. The MAC stated that if, in the future, the legislation of the supervisory act is approved by the legislature, the four-stage communication process under the supervisory act would not be applied to the Cross-Strait Trade in Services Agreement since the agreement has already been submitted to Legislative Yuan for associated procedures in accordance to the law. Rather, it would be submitted directly to the Legislative Yuan for review according to the related provisions on Legislative Yuan review procedures. The executive branch shall fully respect the future outcome of the legislature's review.

April 9, 2014
President Ma Ying-jeou stated in remarks at the videoconference with the Washington D.C.-based Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) that the government has pursued a cross-strait policy of maintaining the political status quo. This means "no unification, no independence, and no use of force" under the framework of the ROC Constitution. It also means maintaining peaceful cross-strait relations on the basis of the 1992 Consensus, namely, "one China, respective interpretations." Cross-strait relations are at their best state in over six decades. To date, the two sides have completed 10 rounds of talks, signed 21 agreements and planed to exchange representative offices in the future. Furthermore, MAC Minister Wang Yu-chi visited mainland China last February to meet in Nanjing with his counterpart, Director Zhang Zhijun of the Taiwan Affairs Office. This was the first official meeting of its kind since the two sides came under separate rule 65 years ago. This meeting represented the gradual institutionalization of the cross-strait relationship, and was a historic milestone on the path toward sustainable peace and prosperity.

April 10, 2014
President Ma Ying-jeou stated during a meeting with a homecoming delegation of the Asia Taiwanese Chambers of Commerce that the Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA) is part of the bilateral agreements under the World Trade Organization (WTO) framework, covering trade in goods, trade in services, investment protection and dispute settlement. The Cross-Strait Trade in Services Agreement was signed last year, and it does not open Taiwan to Mainland workers or investment immigration. The government has established multiple defense mechanisms for areas that could potentially impact national security. The president also pointed out that the government has budgeted NT$ 98.2 billion that can be used over a 10-year period to assist companies and factories that could be adversely affected by these measures. A range of stimulus and guidance, structural adjustment, and damage relief will be offered to those that seek such assistance. The president further stated that the government formulated the Statute for the Processing and Monitoring of Agreements between the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area to help the public understand the content of agreements signed between the two sides in the future. Legislation of the statute and the review of the Trade in Services Agreement should be carried out at the same time. Failure to pass the Trade in Services Agreement would greatly affect Taiwan. Furthermore, the President emphasized that the government will strengthen public communication on agreements signed between the two sides to help people understand the content of the agreements and adhere to the principle of "putting Taiwan first for the benefit of the people" in the agreement negotiations.

April 10, 2014
Member of the Politburo Standing Committee of the Communist Party of China, Premier Li Keqiang stated during a meeting with Honorary Chairman of the Cross-Straits Common Market Foundation Vincent Siew and the delegation attending the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference 2014 that the two sides should continuously expand and deepen cross-strait economic cooperation with the view that both sides are of one family. He also stated that the Mainland is willing to first share with Taiwan compatriots the opportunities in Mainland’s economic development, care for Taiwan compatriots’ interests in the cross-strait economic cooperation, open up to Taiwan a step earlier or open up more to Taiwan in the process of liberalization, and to promote the cross-strait economic integration and joint development. He further stated that the momentum of economic globalization and regional economic integration is unabated. Further expansion of economic cooperation and economic integration across the Taiwan Strait would also be helpful to create better conditions for Taiwan's participation in regional economic cooperation.

April 11, 2014
The MAC stated in a press release that the Cross-Strait Trade in Services Agreement has been submitted to the Legislative Yuan and is undergoing associated procedures. The executive branch entirely respects the process and outcome of the legislature's review of the Cross-Strait Trade in Services Agreement. It hopes that the agreement can be promptly passed and put into effect to help Taiwanese companies tap the vast business opportunities in the Mainland and lay a foundation for Taiwan's participation in regional economic integration.

April 11, 2014
MAC Minister Wang Yu-chi stated during an interview on udn tv's "Global Outlook" program that the Cross-Strait Trade in Services Agreement stipulates that amendment or revocation of the original opening commitments can be proposed three years after the agreement comes into effect. Provisions of the pact may also be reviewed after one year of implementation, and according to the emergency consultation regulations, either side may demand emergency consultations if its service sector suffers substantive negative impact. Minister Wang said that the most feasible approach to resolving trade in services disputes is to first approve the Trade in Services Agreement and capitalize on opened resources, and later adjust the agreement content as needed through emergency consultations. This is a better approach than restarting negotiations. Minister Wang also stressed that the Executive Yuan version of the cross-strait agreement supervisory draft conforms to stipulations of the present ROC Constitution, fundamentally complies with the national identity design under the ROC Constitution, and accords with the constitutional separation of powers principle, under which the executive branch is responsible for external negotiations and the legislative branch is in charge of resolutions. This also meets the needs for the practical operation of negotiations and avoids the problem of non-separation of authority and responsibility resulting from allowing "legislative power to dictate administrative powers" in negotiations.

April 15, 2014
SEF Chairman Lin Join-sane will lead an SEF cultural delegation to the Mainland and meet with ARATS Chairman Chen Deming for an exchange of views on the affairs of the SEF and the ARATS.

April 16, 2014
Taiwan Affairs Office Spokesperson Fan Liqing stated at a regular press conference that procedures for equal and regular cross-strait negotiations should not be obstructed or hindered. "Taiwan independence" forces are attempting, in the name of supervising cross-strait agreement, to force the “Taiwan Independence” position of "Two-State Theory" and "One Country on Each Side" into law to undermine cross-strait negotiations and the peaceful development of cross-strait relations. Compatriots on neither side of the Strait will allow the wheel of history to be turned back in any way. Moreover, the Cross-Strait Trade in Services Agreement is an already signed agreement and is a pact signed with authorization to the SEF and the ARATS. There is no precedent for re-negotiating a cross-strait agreement that has been signed. The authorization mandated to the SEF and the ARATS to conduct negotiations should be upheld. Spokesperson Fan also noted that the reciprocal institutions to be mutually established by the SEF and the ARATS are service organizations and "not diplomatic and consular institutions." It is hoped that the SEF and the ARATS can promptly complete negotiations and realize the mutual establishment of the institutions. Furthermore, while continuing to promote exchanges and cooperation in fields such as economic and cultural, the two sides may also explore and discuss how to gradually solve political differences and support preliminary discussion by private sector scholars on the two sides. On the matter of long-standing political differences between the two sides, the Mainland is willing, under the "one China" framework, to engage with Taiwan in negotiations on an equal footing and make fair and reasonable arrangements.

April 18, 2014
President Ma Ying-jeou stated during a meeting with Dominique V. Turpin, president of the Switzerland-based International Institute for Management Development (IMD), that over the past six years, the two sides across the Taiwan Strait have held 10 rounds of talks, signed 21 agreements and reached two consensuses. Considerable progress has been made in promoting institutionalized relations between the two sides. Moreover, the government is promoting cross-strait exchanges and cooperation by opening cross-strait banking and strengthening people-to-people exchanges. The President also mentioned that recently the Cross-Strait Trade in Services Agreement has triggered considerable controversy in Taiwan, which has delayed legislative approval of the agreement. Consequently, government agencies intend to further strengthen communication with the public to explain the agreement content and help the public understand that the advantages of cross-strait trade outweigh the disadvantages.

April 22, 2014
MAC Minister Wang Yu-chi stated during a forum on "Cross-Strait Relations and Mainland Policy" at Dong Hwa University that regional economic integration is the current trend in international trade and economic development. As an export-driven economy, Taiwan must promptly join the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and other major organizations for economic and trade integration in East Asia. At the same time, Taiwan also needs to pragmatically face the fact that mainland China is both its largest economic and trading partner and overseas market. The government must therefore actively promote the Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA) and its follow-up agreements on trade in services and trade in goods to create conditions for Taiwan's integration into the regional economy. Minister Wang also stated that the government will make thorough reflections on the controversies of the Trade in Services Agreement promotion process, yet he hopes for the public to rationally consider and understand that the Agreement is in fact a key step for Taiwan's integration into regional economy. Minister Wang further stated that in response to public opinion, the government has formulated a Cross-Strait Agreement Supervisory Act based on the current Act Governing Relations between the People of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area, in hope to strengthen future promotion of external communication and consultation work at each stage of cross-strait agreements, so that the public may fully participate in the process and congress may exercise supervision both before and after the agreement signing. The Act stipulates that competent authorities must present complete impact assessment for each agreement and the agreements must undergo national security review mechanism inspection. The Act also refers to procedural precedent and the Exercise of Legislative Powers Law in establishing review procedures for cross-strait agreement supervision. The government hopes that through a "constitutional, pragmatic and feasible" approach, future cross-strait agreements promotion may become more institutionalized and transparent.

April 23, 2014
President Ma Ying-jeou stated during a meeting with top officers of District 300-A3 of the Taiwan Chapter of Lions Clubs International that the Cross-Strait Trade in Services Agreement is an important benchmark in the international community's assessment of Taiwan's determination to pursue trade liberalization. Under the agreement, Taiwan will open up 64 sectors to the Mainland and the Mainland will open up 80 sectors to Taiwan. Overall, the agreement favors Taiwan. It also does not allow Mainland laborers to work in Taiwan. The government has formulated a range of support strategies, including stimulus and guidance, structural adjustments and damage relief, for industries, enterprises and workers likely to be impacted by trade liberalization to enhance their competitiveness and support their transformation. The President further emphasized that the Cross-Strait Trade in Services Agreement will “have a limited impact on Taiwan, yet create many business opportunities.” It also stipulates emergency consultation and amendment provisions, under which adjustments can be made after the agreement is signed and comes into force. The Cross-Strait Trade in Services Agreement is emphatically not a "black-box operation." The government will continue to provide various information to help the people of Taiwan understand that the government will uphold the principle of "putting Taiwan first for the benefit of the people" to further "help the people do business and raise Taiwan's competitiveness."

April 25, 2014
Taiwan Affairs Office Director Zhang Zhijun stated in a speech presented at the opening ceremony of the Fourth Economic and Financial Forum by Economic Daily in Mainland, Taiwan and Hong Kong that economic cooperation is the priority direction and focal area in the development of cross-strait relations. Under the current circumstances, the strengthening of cross-strait economic cooperation requires three ”xin”. The first is "self-confidence (zixin)," whereby both sides should have confidence in its own economic development and industrial competitiveness. Taiwan enjoys considerable advantages over the Mainland in Asia and even the world in the electronics and information industry, agriculture, and modern service industry. Through cross-strait cooperation in numerous fields and industries, Taiwan can continue to capitalize on its advantages and achieve greater success. The second is "mutual trust (huxin)," meaning trust and tacit understanding between the two sides. There are bound to be different voices and views in the course of cross-strait economic cooperation. The mainland will strengthen communication with sincerity and patience, eliminate obstacles with determination and information, and further listen to the opinions and proposals of various sectors in Taiwan at all levels, especially at the grassroots level, and further improve related policy initiatives to enable more Taiwanese people to enjoy the dividends of peaceful development and continuously solidify the basis of public opinion for win-win cross-strait cooperation. The third is "confidence (xinxin)," meaning joint acknowledgement and persistent pursuit of the peaceful development of cross-strait relations. At a time when the development of economic globalization and regional economic integration is accelerating, the expansion of economic cooperation and promotion of economic integration across the Taiwan Strait will help to create more favorable conditions for Taiwan to participate in regional economic cooperation. "Taiwan independence" separatist forces will not be allowed to undermine the peaceful development of cross-strait relations.

April 30, 2014
Taiwan Affairs Office spokesperson Fan Liqing reiterated at a regular press conference that the cross-strait relationship is not a "state to state" relationship. Compatriots on both sides of the Strait should be on high alert for any attempts to promote the “Taiwan independence” positions of the "Two-State Theory" and "One Country on Each Side" in the name of "cross-strait agreement supervision."

May 1, 2014
The MAC announced the results of its special public opinion survey concerning the cross-strait agreements’ supervision. The survey showed that the great majority of the public believe that requiring the executive branch to communicate and consult with congress and the public at each stage in the signing of cross-strait agreements and to respect Legislative Yuan procedures of review or recording for future reference, along with measures such as national security review would be conducive to increasing openness and transparency of negotiations and public participation (73.2%), congressional oversight (73.9%), and national security (72.6%). Furthermore, 42.5% of the public support the Cross-Strait Trade in Services Agreement, higher than the percentage not supporting the agreement (40.1%). Additionally, 70.4% of the public support the start of an article-by-article review and article-by-article vote on the Trade in Services Agreement in the Legislative Yuan. The Executive Yuan version of the draft Supervisory Act has included the important views of the public. The government hopes that the legislative process may be completed as soon as possible to promote orderly operation of negotiations.

May 7, 2014
General Secretary of the CPC Central Committee Xi Jinping stated during a meeting with a delegation led by People First Party Chairman James Soong at the Great Hall of the People that all difficulties may be resolved so long as the two sides embark from the principle of "one family across the Strait." He also stated that the guiding principles for promoting peaceful development of cross-strait relations will not change; pragmatic initiatives for promoting cross-strait exchanges, cooperation, and mutual benefit will not be abandoned; the sincerity and enthusiasm of unifying with Taiwan compatriots in common struggle will not weaken; and the firm will to stop "Taiwan independence" secessionist schemes will not be shaken. He further indicated that the Mainland would actively create conditions to expand channels for contact between people from all sectors of society on both sides so as to narrow down psychological distance and deeply understand the practical needs of the people of Taiwan, especially at the grassroots level. The Mainland will also take active and effective measures to enable more Taiwanese people to benefit from cross-strait economic exchanges and cooperation. Furthermore, the future of cross-strait relations depends on the youth of both sides. The two sides should create more conditions for contact and exchanges so that young people could feel the trend of peaceful development of cross-strait relations.

May 7, 2014
Member of the Politburo Standing Committee of the Communist Party of China and Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference Yu Zhengsheng stated during a meeting with a delegation led by Taiwan People First Party Chairman James Soong at the Beijing Diaoyutai State Guesthouse that the two sides must adhere to the "1992 Consensus," oppose "Taiwan independence," and consolidate and enhance political trust across the Taiwan Strait. So long as compatriots on both sides of the Strait embark from the concept and mentality of "one family," the peaceful development of cross-strait relations may be continued.

May 8, 2014
Taiwan Affairs Office Director Zhang Zhijun stated at the second meeting of the third board of directors of the ARATS that the two sides must seize the theme of peaceful development of cross-strait relations, pragmatically promote cross-strait exchanges and cooperation, resolutely contain "Taiwan independence" secessionist schemes, and continue to promote the process of peaceful development of cross-strait relations. The two sides also should plan cross-strait consultations and negotiations, continuously make new progress, and further develop the special and important role of private organizations authorized by the two sides in promoting the peaceful development of cross-strait relations.

May 12, 2014
President Ma Ying-jeou stated during a meeting with a homecoming delegation of the Taiwan Benevolent Association of America that the government is actively signing free trade agreements (FTAs) with major trading partners under an economic strategy aimed at "building up Taiwan, linking with the Asia-Pacific region, and deploying globally." The Cross-Strait Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA) plays a "stepping stone" role by making more countries willing to sign FTA-like economic cooperation pacts with Taiwan. The government hopes that Taiwan can join the Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPP) and Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (RCEP) this year to further participate in regional economic integration.
The president also stated that the government is actively improving relations with mainland China and promoting peaceful cross-strait relations while maintaining the status quo of "no unification, no independence, and no use of force" under the framework of the ROC Constitution and on the basis of the "1992 Consensus" and “one China, with respective interpretations”. Such efforts have ushered cross-strait relations into their most stable and peaceful state in 65 years. Any attempt by either sides across the strait to unilaterally change the status quo with non-peaceful means will encounter huge resistance. President Ma also noted that the Cross-Strait Trade in Services Agreement is crucial to Taiwan and the government will continue to endeavor to build consensus.

May 14, 2014
Taiwan Affairs Office spokesperson Ma Xiaoguang stated at a routine press conference that peaceful development of cross-strait relations corresponds with the trend of the times and is a choice shared by compatriots on both sides of the Strait. The two sides must eliminate all interference and continue to implement effective measures so that more people from all walks of life in Taiwan may benefit from cross-strait exchanges and cooperation. Avenues for contact between all sectors of society on both sides should be expanded and conditions should be created to enhance mutual trust. The spokesperson also stated that opposing "Taiwan independence" is a necessary condition for the peaceful development of cross-strait relations. Any form of "Taiwan independence" separatist activities must be resolutely opposed. There is no room for compromise on this.

May 20, 2014
President Ma Ying-jeou stated during a press conference convened to mark the sixth anniversary of his inauguration that mainland China is the world's second largest economy entity and Taiwan's largest trading partner. The majority of the Taiwan public feel that the Cross-Strait Trade in Services Agreement is beneficial to Taiwan's economy, support article-by-article screening of the agreement, and hope for the swift passage of the Cross-Strait Agreement Supervisory Act. The government's cross-strait policy over the past six years has sought to maximize opportunities and minimize risks. It is hoped that the Cross-Strait Agreement Supervisory Act can be passed as soon as possible. This would enable thorough screening and supervision of cross-strait agreements and ensure greater transparency of all cross-strait agreements that will benefit the public in Taiwan.

May 23, 2014
The SEF sent a letter to the ARATS requesting assistance in coordinating with the local authorities and Taiwan Affairs Office to respond to an accident involving a Mainland tour group operated by Life Tour, in which a bus rolled over into the Jiulong River in Fujian Province.

May 25, 2014
The SEF sent another formal letter to the ARATS requesting that search and rescue work to be fully strengthened and continued. The ARATS was also asked to assist with arrangements for SEF personnel to jointly assist in handling follow-up affairs.

May 26, 2014
President Ma Ying-jeou stated during a meeting with the ninth board of directors and supervisors of the General Chamber of Commerce of the Republic of China that, while the service industry accounts for nearly 70% of Taiwan's GDP, the value of exports in this sector is very low. The government therefore attaches great importance to the Cross-Strait Trade in Services Agreement. Taiwan's service industry is highly competitive. If Taiwan's business management advantages can be further integrated with the Mainland's vast market, it would accelerate the booming development of the domestic service industry. President Ma further stated that the ruling and opposition parties have reached a consensus on reviewing the Cross-Strait Trade in Services Agreement. It is hoped that the agreement review can return to a democratic process. The President also noted that whether the Cross-Strait Trade in Services Agreement can be passed is not only pertinent to the development of cross-strait economic and trade relations, but also has major significance for Taiwan's global economic position. If the agreement fails to pass, it will adversely affect Taiwan's credibility and create barriers to the signing of economic cooperation agreements with other countries in the future.

May 26, 2014
Former ARATS Chairman and Advisor and current Chairman of the Calligraphy Exchange Chapter Chen Yunlin led an "ARATS Calligraphy Art Exchange Mission" to Taiwan. He also met with SEF Chairman Lin Join-sane and Vice Chairman and Secretary-general Chang Hsien-yao.

May 27, 2014
The MAC stated in a press release that the core position of the government's Mainland policy is to abide the mainstream public opinion in Taiwan and squarely face the reality of separate governance across the Taiwan Strait. The government will continue to call on the Mainland side to squarely face the reality of separate governance across the Taiwan Strait and the objective existence of the Republic of China. These are the key issues to the continued deepening and expansion of cross-strait relations. Over the past six years, the "1992 Consensus of one China, with respective interpretations" has been the most important foundation for the peaceful and stable development of relations across the Strait. The two sides should continue on this foundation to face each other more positively and pragmatically and to boldly confront differences in order to enable the continued promotion of mutually beneficial, peaceful and stable cross-strait relations. Furthermore, the government’s current objective remains to build domestic consensus on Mainland policy and to pragmatically implement signed agreements to work for the greater well-being and interests of the people.

May 28, 2014
Taiwan Affairs Office spokesperson Ma Xiaoguang stated at a regular press conference that although the two sides of the Strait are not yet unified, the Mainland and Taiwan both belong to one China. The cross-strait relationship is not a state-to-state relationship. Adhering to the "1992 Consensus" and opposing "Taiwan independence" form a common political basis for the peaceful development of cross-strait relations. It is hoped that, the two sides may explore ways to resolve their political differences on this foundation. Furthermore, the two sides are part of one family. A meeting between the leaders of the two sides would be conducive to the development of cross-strait relations. However, this is a matter between the two sides and does not have to take place at an international conference venue.

May 30, 2014
MAC Minister Wang Yu-chi stated during the “Focus Forum on Legalization of the Cross-Strait Agreement Supervisory Act” that the government's purpose in promoting cross-strait agreements is to normalize and institutionalize cross-strait exchanges and enhance mutual understanding between the two sides. The design of the Cross-Strait Agreement Supervisory Act should therefore be based on the principles that "cross-strait exchanges must continue and the Supervisory Act must be feasible" so as to prevent the Act from becoming a "Failure to Sign Cross-Strait Agreements Act" that would affect cross-strait relations.

May 31, 2014
President Ma Ying-jeou stated during an interview by Japan's Yomiuri Shimbun that the APEC annual meeting this November will be held in mainland China. The possibility of a meeting with the Mainland leader Mr. Xi Jinping would depend on the timing, occasion and capacity. Furthermore, a meeting would be contingent on national need, public support and legislative oversight. The president also stated that cross-strait exchanges should address "easy matters before difficult ones, urgent matters before non-urgent ones, and economic matters before political ones." The past six years have witnessed the smoothest and most peaceful state of cross-strait ties in 65 years. This is the direction in which Taiwan hopes to advance. Furthermore, the two sides are now in talks over an agreement on the establishment of reciprocal institutions. Although the agreement itself is neutral, it has political implications. Taiwan will not shy away from these issues and will act with the best discretion so long as it is in the interests of people on both sides.

June 3, 2014
The MAC issued a statement on the 25th anniversary of the Tiananmen Square Incident. The statement urged for mainland China to squarely face and actively reflect upon the major significance of the Tiananmen Square Incident and turn this historical scar into an opportunity and force for reform and transformation in the Mainland. The MAC stated that the Mainland authorities should also show sincerity by shouldering responsibility, making reconciliation, and treating kindly June 4th Incident victims and families. The Mainland authorities should also respect and be tolerant of diverse opinions in society, protect human rights of Mainland dissents and activists, concretely implement pledges made by the Mainland in the White Paper on Human Rights, promote civil rights, and create a better political and social environment. The MAC further pointed out that advancing the people's well being is the core value and common goal in the development of cross-strait relations. Over the past six-plus years of cross-strait negotiations and dialogue, the government has communicated and exchanged with the Mainland side on important human rights issues such as protection of personal safety and humanitarian care. The government has also deepened cross-strait exchanges and cooperation, while at the same time, promoted universal values of democracy, freedom, human rights, and the rule of law across the Strait. At this critical juncture when the Mainland is promoting comprehensive and deep reforms, Taiwan is willing to continuously share its experiences in development with the Mainland, in hope for mutual betterment and realization of a "people-centered" vision across the Strait.

June 4, 2014
President Ma Ying-jeou stated in thoughts upon the 25th anniversary of the June 4th Incident that, looking back on that great historic wound, he sincerely hopes that the Mainland authorities will think hard about the incident and act quickly to restore the good names of those who have been wronged. He also called on them to ensure that such a tragedy will never recur. The president also stated that the best way to lessen the feeling of "otherness" between people on the two sides of the Taiwan Strait is for the Mainland to treat dissidents well. By tolerating differences of opinion, the Mainland authorities would actually be elevating their own stature and strengthening their legitimacy. Moreover, they would be sending a clear signal to Taiwan that the Mainland is serious about political reform. The approval and respect that such an approach would elicit, both internationally and among the people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait, would be far more than anything that's been gained through concessions granted in the economic sphere. It would greatly change the stereotypical image of Mainland authorities that has so long held sway in the minds of the Taiwanese people. It is hoped that democracy and the rule of law will become a "language in common" shared on both sides of the Taiwan Strait, and that freedom and equitable distribution of wealth will become a shared dream.

June 9, 2014
President Ma Ying-jeou stated during a meeting with Jerome A. Cohen, co-director of the U.S.-Asia Law Institute at the New York University School of Law that, this past February, MAC Minister Wang Yu-chi and Director Zhang Zhijun of the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office held discussions, the first time since the two sides came under separate rule 65 years ago that the heads of the respective offices responsible for cross-strait affairs held discussions and addressed each other by their official titles. This was an important milestone in the history of cross-strait interaction. The President further stated that the enactment of a Cross-Strait Agreement Supervisory Act and screening of the Cross-Strait Trade in Services Agreement could be carried out simultaneously and would not conflict with each other. President Ma expressed hope that these bills, which are critical to Taiwan's economy and cross-strait relations, will be quickly passed.

June 9, 2014
The MAC stated in a press release that the government's promotion of cross-strait agreements is aimed to further normalize and institutionalize cross-strait exchanges and enhance mutual understanding between the two sides. Therefore, on the basis of the Act Governing Relations between the People of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area, the MAC has drafted a constitutional, pragmatic and feasible Statute for the Processing and Monitoring of Agreements between the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area. The draft statute integrates a "four-stage external communication and consultation mechanism" and "national security review mechanism." It also refers to the bill versions proposed by all sides and the precedent of the Legislative Yuan, as well as corresponds to the positioning of cross-strait relations and the separation of executive and legislative powers principle stipulated in the ROC Constitution. The MAC stated that the Executive Yuan version of the bill was drafted in accordance with public opinion, and it allows congress full advance procedural participation and full post execution supervision powers. It also includes a comprehensive and rigorous impact assessment mechanism, industry response plan and remedial measures, public communication, and a mechanism to monitor review resolutions. It is hoped that the legislative process may be completed as soon as possible.

June 11, 2014
Taiwan Affairs Office spokesperson Fan Liqing stated at a regular press conference that, although the Mainland and Taiwan are not yet reunified, the sovereignty and territorial integrity of "China" is undivided. The fact that both sides of the Strait belong to one "China" has never changed. The cross-strait relationship is not a state-to-state relationship. Any issues concerning China's sovereignty and territorial integrity must be jointly decided by all Chinese people, including Taiwan compatriots. The spokesperson also stated that the competent authorities and industrial circles on both sides have continued communication and exchanges of views on the Trade in Goods Agreement and Dispute Settlement Agreement and have not changed their attitude about continued institutionalization of cross-strait economic cooperation and promotion of ECFA follow-up negotiations. It is hoped that cross-strait economic cooperation may continue to be strengthened.

June 14, 2014
The MAC stated in a press release that the itinerary planning for the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office Director Zhang Zhijun's Taiwan visit has been entirely in line with the principle of equality and dignity. The requests proposed by the Mainland side have all been carefully assessed and thoroughly discussed; the Taiwan side will not simply accept all requests without question. The MAC stressed that Zhang Zhijun's upcoming Taiwan visit has important implications for normal official interactions and the benign development of relations across the Taiwan Strait. It will also help Mainland officials in charge of cross-strait affairs to personally experience Taiwan's democracy and pluralistic society, properly understand views in Taiwan on the development of cross-strait relations, and pragmatically and objectively view the cross-strait status quo. The MAC hopes that all sectors may look at normal official exchanges and interaction across the Strait from positive perspectives.

June 15, 2014
Director Zhang Zhijun of the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office stated at the opening ceremony of the Sixth Straits Forum that there will be no change in the direction of promoting peaceful development of cross-strait relations. The Mainland will staunchly take all actions beneficial to cross-strait exchanges and cooperation and to the advancement of the welfare of compatriots on both sides. In the process of promoting cross-strait exchanges and cooperation, the Mainland will also widely listen to the opinions and suggestions of the people on both sides, especially the grassroots public in Taiwan, to strengthen relevant policies and measures. Director Zhang also stated that the Mainland will continue to promote cross-strait economic exchanges and cooperation and strengthen cross-strait customs, inspection and quarantine cooperation; promote sound and orderly development of travel by Mainland residents to Taiwan, jointly cultivate the travel market, and maintain the quality of tourism; vigorously promote cross-strait exchanges at the grassroots level, expand the scale of cross-strait youth exchanges, and facilitate cross-strait exchanges and personnel contact; and speed up formulation of practical measures to further facilitate and expand contact between Taiwan compatriots and the Mainland. On the issue of Mainland tourist transits in Taiwan, the Mainland also hopes that the involved parties on both sides may advance in the same direction and work together.

June 15, 2014
Member of the Politburo Standing Committee of the Communist Party of China and Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference Yu Zhengsheng stated at the opening ceremony of the Sixth Straits Forum that the key to the development of cross-strait relations is to embark from the perspective of "one family." With more understanding, respect and appreciation, we could understand the mentality of Taiwan compatriots formed under the special historical conditions, and we respect that Taiwan compatriots identify with their existing social systems, values and lifestyles. Resolving the differences and problems between the two sides will require both sides to work together, give top priority to the big picture, treat each other with goodwill, come together with affinity, and continue to eliminate barriers and reconcile with each other. We firmly believe that cross-strait relations may steadily advance so long as the two sides consolidate the common foundation of opposing "Taiwan independence", adhere to the "1992 Consensus, and maintain the common acknowledgement of the "one China" framework. Chairman Yu further said that the Mainland would widely listen to the opinions and suggestions of various sectors in Taiwan, deeply understand the real needs of the Taiwanese people, expand participation in and benefits from cross-strait exchanges and cooperation, and continuously enhance the basis of public support for the peaceful development of cross-strait relations.

June 16, 2014
President Ma Ying-jeou stated at the 2014 joint graduation ceremony of ROC's five military academies that the ROC government has consistently sought, under the framework of the ROC Constitution, to maintain the status quo of "no unification, no independence, and no use of force" in the Taiwan Strait, and to promote peaceful cross-strait ties under the "1992 Consensus," whereby each side acknowledges the existence of "one China" but maintains its own interpretation of what that means. This has enabled the Taiwan Strait to become a symbol of peace and prosperity. In the face of the latest developments and challenges in the Taiwan Strait, the government, in order to prevent war, defend freedom and democracy, and promote peace, still needs to maintain a strong military force so that it can pursue longer-term peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait free of concerns about national security. President Ma also called on all parties involved to resolve disputes by peaceful means under the principles of "safeguarding sovereignty, shelving disputes, pursuing peace and reciprocity, and promoting joint exploration and development."

June 18, 2014
The Straits Exchange Foundation sent a letter to the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Straits expressing the concerns and doubts of Taiwanese enterprises on the draft revisions to the Guangdong Province Regulations on Enterprise Collective Consultations and Collective Contracts. The letter requested assistance in reflecting such concerns to the relevant units and asking them to widely seek the views of all sides and re-deliberate this matter.

June 25, 2014
MAC Minister Wang Yu-chi stated in a speech presented at the Second Meeting between Heads of Cross-Strait Competent Authorities that, since 2008, the two sides have been adhering to the principle of "shelving disputes and jointly creating a win-win outcome," and enabling cross-strait relations to make considerable progress over the past six-plus years. Minister Wang emphasized hopes for the Mainland side to understand Taiwan's democratic constitutional system and political ecology, stressing especially the current trend in Taiwanese society concerning civic awareness and civic movement developments, as well as the expectations the Taiwanese people have placed on expanding foreign trade in hope of seeking a way forward. It is also under this context that the mainstream public opinion in Taiwan identifies with the government's cross-strait policy to steadily promote peaceful and stable development of cross-strait relations. Minister Wang also expressed hope that during this trip Director Zhang could listen to Taiwanese people's voice, understand Taiwanese people's way of life, and respect Taiwanese people's choice.

June 25, 2014
The MAC stated in a press release that, during the second Meeting between Heads of Cross-Strait Competent Authorities, the two sides exchanged views on important issues related to cross-strait relations. Regarding the issue of deciding Taiwan's future, Minister Wang reiterated at the meeting the government's position, which is to maintain the status quo of "no unification, no independence and no use of force" under the ROC Constitution framework. The consensus of the Taiwanese people is that the future of Taiwan future should be determined, in adherence to the ROC Constitution framework, by the 23 million people of Taiwan. It is hoped that the Mainland may respect the people's voice. The MAC appealed to the Mainland to uphold the spirit of shelving disputes and jointly creating a win-win outcome, to demonstrate more sincerity, and to pragmatically and with priority handle issues such as the people's welfare, rights and interests. Only by doing so may there be a new page for cross-strait relations. Minister Wang further noted that since the official launch of the liaison and communication mechanism between the MAC and the Taiwan Affairs Office in February this year, communication has operated smoothly and the mechanism has contributed to increasing understanding, reducing misjudgments, and advancing the institutionalization of official contacts across the Strait. On this basis, the two sides will continue to pragmatically promote following communication and contact. At the meeting, Minister Wang also reiterated Taiwan's hope to accede to the Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPP), Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (RCEP), and Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific (FTAAP). He said that if Taiwan were to successfully begin negotiations with other countries on economic and trade agreements, it would help increase the Taiwanese people's confidence and support in promoting cross-strait economic and trade liberalization.
With respect to the issue of humanitarian visit functions for the reciprocal institutions of the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) and the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Straits (ARATS), the MAC stated that both sides expressed a positive attitude to actively deliberate and handle specific arrangements such as the implementation plan for humanitarian visits, codes of conduct, guarantees and convenience measures for the reciprocal institutions. The two sides will continue to pragmatically promote follow-up operational discussions and communication and input more dedication to strengthen substantive services of the institutions.
Furthermore, the two sides agreed to study feasible measures and further arrange the start of communication between relevant authorities on the issue of allowing Mainland tourists to transit in Taiwan. They also agreed to continue promotion on cross-strait cultural, education, technology, and news exchanges, as well as to encourage the grassroots public and young students on both sides to strengthen exchanges to enhance awareness and understanding. The MAC also indicated that the "1992 Consensus" represents the spirit and political wisdom of the two sides in "addressing realities and shelving disputes," as well as an attitude of pragmatically resolving problems. This is the crux of institutionalized cross-strait negotiations, interactions and exchanges. In the future, the two sides should continue to promote mutually beneficial cross-strait relations in adherence to this foundation.

June 25, 2014
Director Zhang Zhijun of the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office stated at the Second Meeting between Heads of Cross-Strait Competent Authorities that this step from Beijing to Taiwan took a full 65 years. In 2008, the two sides ushered in a new era of peaceful cross-strait developments on the political basis of upholding the "1992 consensus." It is hoped for the two sides to stick to the correct course, enhance mutual political trust, strengthen cross-strait exchanges and cooperation in various fields, enrich the content of exchanges, and strengthen institutional development. The Mainland also hopes for compatriots on both sides of the Strait, especially the grassroots public and younger generation, to strengthen communication and exchanges, and enhance understanding and trust. Zhang Zhijun pointed out that cross-strait relations are like "sailing against the current: not to advance is to drop back." Advances of cross-strait relations are bound to touch on some deep-seated problems. So long as compatriots on both sides of the Strait join hands, they will certainly be able to overcome difficulties, move forward, and make new progress in promoting peaceful development of cross-strait relations.

June 25, 2014
Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) Spokesperson Ma Xiaoguang stated at a press conference after the Second Meeting between Heads of Cross-Strait Competent Authorities that the meeting was an important step in normalizing communication and liaison mechanisms between the TAO and the MAC. It is highly significant in raising the level of institutionalization for cross-strait exchanges and the continued promotion of peaceful cross-strait developments. During the meeting, both sides agreed on continuos to adherence to the correct course of peaceful cross-strait on developments; deepening of cross-strait economic cooperation, also, advancing the process of ECFA follow-up talks, and promptly starting joint research work; pragmatically discuss appropriate means and feasible approaches to link up the joint economic development across the Taiwan Strait and the regional economic cooperation process; continue consultations on the establishment of reciprocal institutions by the ARATS and SEF; and properly resolve other remaining issues and complete negotiations as soon as possible on the foundation of sensible and reasonable arrangements of the issue of visitations. The two sides will also actively promote research and solutions to issues related to Mainland tourist transits in Taiwan and further facilitation of exchanges between compatriots on both sides, as well as duly communicate through appropriate channels. Ma Xiaoguang further stated that the two sides both affirmed the smooth operation of the liaison and communication mechanism between the TAO and the MAC. They would further perfect this mechanism, utilize its role, and, in the future, use the mechanism to continue consultations and arrangement of exchange visits between the heads of the TAO and MAC, based on the actual needs of cross-strait relations.

June 30, 2014
Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) Director Zhang Zhijun stated during a written interview by reporters of the People's Daily and Xinhua News Agency that his first visit to Taiwan as director of the TAO is an important breakthrough in the past 65 years of cross-strait relations. At the second formal meeting with Minister Wang Yu-chi of Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council (MAC), both sides exchanged views and reached consensus on the current status of cross-strait relations and further development of ties between the two sides. The next step is for the TAO and the MAC to continue maintaining communication and contact, and gradually promote implementation through the appropriate channels. Zhang Zhijun also stated that the Mainland would continue to adhere to the guiding policies for promoting peaceful development of cross-strait relations, realize the concept of "one family across the Strait," and vigorously work towards greater achievements in the peaceful development of cross-strait relations. He also emphasized that the Mainland's position on issues related to safeguarding China's sovereignty and territorial integrity has been consistent: the cross-strait relationship is not a state-to-state relationship and there can be no "two Chinas" or "one China, one Taiwan."

July 3, 2014
President Ma Ying-jeou stated during a reception for the traveling press corps accompanying him on his trip to Panama and El Salvador that the government sought to improve cross-strait relations to create space for the ROC to develop its international relationships, and to transform the past vicious cycle between the two sides into a virtuous cycle, so that cross-strait relations would no longer be an impediment to the ROC's external relations. Substantive achievements have been seen in this regard, and the heads of state allies and the international community have applauded this development. This year, the government has been aggressively working to join the Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPP) and Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (RCEP), and it has examined potential roadblocks and formulated responses, in order to create conditions beneficial to the ROC's admission to the TPP and the RCEP.

July 4, 2014
Deputy Minister Wu Mei-hung of the MAC stated at the 19th Asian Chinese Amity Conference that the government's Mainland policy is to pragmatically position cross-strait relations under the ROC Constitution framework and to steadily promote institutionalized cross-strait negotiations on the basis of the "1992 Consensus with respective interpretations of one China" and adhering to the principle of handing "easy matters before difficult ones, urgent matters before non-urgent ones and economic matters before political ones." To date, the two sides have signed 21 agreements. The government has adopted a "building blocks" approach in its pursuit of long-term peace across the Taiwan Strait. In terms of the economy, security and the order of cross-strait exchanges, the government has safeguarded the interests of the people on both sides and earned the public's affirmation. Deputy Minister Wu further said that in February this year, Minister Wang accepted an invitation from Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) Director Zhang to visit the Mainland in his capacity as incumbent minister of the MAC. The two sides held the first Meeting between Heads of Cross-Strait Competent Authorities, representing the start of normalized official interactions and contacts across the Strait. In June, TAO Director Zhang visited Taiwan and the two sides held the second Meeting between Heads of Cross-Strait Competent Authorities. It not only had important significance for normal official interactions and benign development across the Strait but also enabled Mainland cross-strait authorities to properly understand views in Taiwan concerning cross-strait relations development and pragmatically and objectively view the cross-strait status quo. Looking to the future, the government will proactively and steadily continue dialogue and communication with the Mainland on the basis of mainstream public opinion, as well as deepen and expand cross-strait exchanges and cooperation to create favorable opportunities for the long-term development of institutionalized cross-strait relations and joint participation in regional economic integration.

July 6, 2014
Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Straits (ARATS) President Chen Deming stated at the "Dragon Legend‧Youth China - All-China Taiwanese Association 2014 Taiwan Compatriot Thousand Youth Summer Camp" that, under the Cross-Strait Trade in Services Agreement signed in 2013, the Mainland opened up 80 sectors to Taiwan, two-thirds of which exceed the treatment granted to other World Trade Organization (WTO) members. In the future, the Mainland would also hold talks with other countries or regions on issues related to opening the trade in services market; it cannot possibly stop for Taiwan's sake. It is hoped that Taiwan may promptly pass the Trade in Services Agreement for its economy to avoid being marginalized.

July 7, 2014
Yu Zhengsheng, Member of the Politburo Standing Committee of the Communist Party of China and Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, stated during a meeting in Beijing with a economic and trade delegation, ROC General Chamber of Commerce its progress led by Chairman Lai Cheng-I, that cross-strait relations has maintained forward, and various sectors on both sides should increase interactions and deepen exchanges to continue building consensus and understanding. The Mainland is adjusting its economic structure and accelerating development of its service industry. Compatriots on both sides of the Strait belong to one family. In the process of opening, the Mainland is willing to let Taiwan's service industry enter the market a step earlier and seize development opportunities. Taiwanese enterprises should grasp these development opportunities in the Mainland market.

July 10, 2014
President Ma Ying-jeou stated during a reception with the presidents, vice presidents and secretaries-general of the five branches of the ROC government that, upon taking office, he began actively seeking to improve cross-strait relations and expand room for the ROC in the international community, and many substantive achievements have been seen. The President further said that, in February this year, MAC Minister Wang Yu-chi met with Taiwan Affairs Office Director Zhang Zhijun in mainland China. In June, Director Zhang reciprocated by visiting Taiwan. Both sides not only referred to each other by their official titles, but also reached a preliminary consensus on the "establishment of representative institutions," "humanitarian visits," "mainland tourist transits in Taiwan" and "Taiwan's participation in Asia-Pacific economic integration." Cross-strait relations are at their most stable situation since the two sides came under separate rule 65 years ago. The President also emphasized that mainland China and Korea are presently negotiating a free trade agreement and expecting it to conclude before the end of the year. As 70% of Taiwan's economic growth is generated by external trade, and many of Korea's and Taiwan's exports compete head to head, the government will move as quickly as possible to sign related economic and trade agreements with major trading partners to reduce risks.

July 10, 2014
The MAC stated in a press release that exchange visits by the heads of cross-strait competent authorities are arranged under the principles of equality and dignity. This institutionalized platform is created to pragmatically handle important cross-strait issues, work for people's welfare, highlight the status quo of separate rules on the two sides, the objective fact of the Republic of China's existence, and voice the pluralistic values of Taiwanese society. The Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) of the Mainland had consulted the MAC in advance for its assessment and opinion on Zhang Zhijun's itinerary in Taiwan, and the government was fully in control of all arrangements for the trip. Moreover, regarding the opinions raised by businesses and the public in Taiwan during Zhang Zhijun's visit to Taiwan, the MAC has long communicated with the Mainland through the institutionalized cross-strait negotiation platform and agreement review mechanism to seek for solutions. Regarding issues involving the competent authorities, the MAC will coordinate with said authorities to follow up and handle such matters. The MAC stated that, facing the current trends of globalization development, the government began actively taking initiatives this year to promote a Mainland policy prioritizing national survival and development and the people's welfare. In the future, the government will also continue to prioritize interaction and communication in cross-strait economic and trade cooperation and institutionalized negotiations, as well as guide the Mainland towards more stable institutional reforms and development through official interactions and contacts on the two sides.

July 11, 2014
Taiwan Affairs Office Spokesperson Ma Xiaoguang stated, in response to a question from the press, that the Mainland will not change the guiding principles in promoting peaceful development of cross-strait relations. All parties and persons of various sectors in Taiwan are welcome to participate in the process of promoting peaceful development of cross-strait relations. He also reiterated that the position of opposing "Taiwan independence" secession scheme is firm, unshakable and unnegotiable.

July 14, 2014
The Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) sent an official letter to the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Straits (ARATS) in regards to the detainment of Hochan Entertainment Co. manager Hsu Chia-sen at Beijing Airport on July 12. The letter requested that ARATS to ascertain the reasons for the detainment and promptly assist in handling this matter. The ARATS replied that Hsu Chia-sen is involved in a major economic case between two Mainland companies and the case is currently under investigation, thus, his exit restrictions have not yet been lifted.

July 17, 2014
The MAC announced the results of its latest routine public opinion survey. The survey found that nearly 70% (69%) of the public approve regular exchange visits by the MAC minister and director of the Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO). The majority of the people think such visits would be conducive to the handling of cross-strait affairs (63.7%) and they are important to the healthy development of cross-strait relations (60.7%). The MAC stated that, in the future, the government would promote cross-strait official interactions mechanism in an orderly manner under the principles of reciprocity and dignity. The survey also showed that 65.1% of the public support joint studies by the two sides on cross-strait related regional economic integration and believe that the government's ability to smoothly negotiate with other countries on economic and trade cooperation would increase Taiwanese people's confidence in cross-strait economic and trade liberalization (59.8%). The MAC stressed that participation in regional economic integration is a matter pertinent to Taiwan's survival. The government will simultaneously promote participation in regional economic integration and cross-strait economic and trade cooperation. As for public views on the Cross-Strait Agreement Supervisory Act, over 60% of the public hope for the Legislative Yuan to promptly pass the Cross-Strait Agreement Supervisory Act (63%); and agree that the Legislative Yuan should be required to vote on cross-strait agreements within a set timeframe (61.6%). The MAC stated that cross-strait agreements concern the rights and interests of the people, and that the Executive Yuan version of the Cross-Strait Agreement Supervisory Act is "constitutional, pragmatic and feasible." The MAC urged prompt completion of the legislative process so as to be consistent with the public's expectations. The survey also found that 68.1% of the public support the government's adherence to the cross-strait status quo of "no unification, no independence, and no use of force" under the ROC Constitution framework; 52.3% of the public identify with the government's position on the "1992 Consensus of one China with respective interpretations" where one China refers to the Republic of China. This shows that the government's Mainland policy corresponds with mainstream public opinion in Taiwan.

July 18, 2014
President Ma Ying-jeou stated during a meeting with the "20th Homecoming Mission of Leaders of the World Taiwanese Chambers of Commerce" that the 12 member states of the Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement account for about 35% of Taiwan's total trade and the 16 member states of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement account for about 57% of Taiwan's total trade, showing the importance and urgency for Taiwan's participation in these two regional economic partnerships. The government will actively seek support from both the United States and mainland China.

July 18, 2014
President Ma Ying-jeou stated during a review at the Military Police Command that there has been significant improvement in cross-strait relations in the past six-plus years. The Taiwan Strait has transformed from a "battlefield" into a "peace square" and is now becoming a "prosperous marketplace." The Taiwan Strait has also become a "sea of peace and cooperation." The President further stressed that, considering that mainland China has not changed its military deployment against Taiwan, the ROC Armed Forces must still adhere to the principle of "preventing war but not fearing it; maintaining readiness for war but not seeking it " to realize its mission of defending the homeland.

July 21, 2014
Taiwan Affairs Office spokesperson Ma Xiaoguang responded to Democratic Progressive Party Chairperson Tsai Ying-wen's claim in the so-called "Resolution on Taiwan's Future" that "the greatest consensus in Taiwan is that Taiwan is a sovereign and independent country". He said that "Taiwan independence" is a dead end and that the hope of handling cross-strait relations by the "Resolution on Taiwan's Future" is a non-starter. He also stressed that the Mainland's position of opposing "Taiwan independence" is firm and unshakable.

July 23, 2014
The Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Straits sent an official letter to the Straits Exchange Foundation expressing condolences to the victims, their families and injured Taiwan compatriots of the Penghu air crash.

July 23, 2014
Director Zhang Zhijun of the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office informed Minister Wang Yu-chi of Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council, that General Secretary Xi Jinping of the Chinese Communist Party conveyed his deep condolences to the victims of the Penghu air crash and sincere sympathies to their families. He also stated that the Mainland is willing to provide every assistance needed by Taiwan.

July 28, 2014
The MAC issued a press release concerning the removal of a page in the program for the 20th Biennial Conference of the European Association of Chinese Studies (EACS) in Portugal introducing the Chiang Ching-Kuo Foundation for International Scholarly Exchange (CCKF). The MAC stated that the event was purely an academic and cultural exchange. The Mainland's unfriendly behavior towards Taiwan has provoked unnecessary controversy and has harmed the feelings of Taiwan's 23 million people. It has been detrimental to the deepening of cross-strait mutual trust. The government urges the Mainland to demonstrate good-will towards Taiwan at international venues and comprehensively adjust its ossified thinking on the issue of Taiwan's pragmatic participation in international activities so that cross-strait ties and foreign relations may truly become a virtuous cycle and create more favorable conditions for the further development of mutually beneficial cross-strait relations.

August 1, 2014
In response to the gas explosion incident in Kaohsiung, the Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) immediately activated the emergency liaison mechanism and expressed the condolences and sympathy of General Secretary Xi Jinping and the Mainland people to the Taiwan victims and their families via Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council. TAO Director Zhang Zhijun said that the Mainland's National Health and Family Planning Commission has conveyed its will to provide medical assistance through the channel of Cross-Strait Agreement on Medical and Health Cooperation. The Red Cross Society of China decided to donate US$500,000 to the Red Cross Society of the Republic of China. In addition, the Ningbo Municipal Committee of Communist Party of China donated RMB 1 million through a counterpart exchange channel. Besides, Mainland enterprises with investments in Taiwan also said that they would make a joint donation. Zhang Zhijun stated that the Mainland has experiences in handling similar incidents and is willing to provide related assistance if needed by Taiwan.

August 2, 2014
The SEF sent an official letter to the ARATS expressing concern and condolences over the explosion at Zhongrong Metal Production Company, a Taiwan-funded enterprise in Kunshan. It also activated the SEF-ARATS emergency liaison channel and requested the ARATS to coordinate with the Kunshan side to fully assist with the rescue, provide proper medical care for the injured, comfort the families of the victims in this unfortunate tragedy, promptly ascertain the cause of the accident, and help the company handle follow-up affairs.

August 2, 2014
General Secretary of the CPC Central Committee, President of the Mainland, and Chairman of the Central Military Commission Xi Jinping stated in regard to the explosion at Zhongrong Metal Production Company at the Kunshan Economic and Technical Development Zone in Suzhou, Jiangsu, that Jiangsu Province and related parties are requested to devote full efforts to treat the injured and comfort the families of the victims, identify the cause of the accident, hold those responsible to account, and strengthen the safe production responsibility system.

August 4, 2014
President Ma Ying-jeou stated during a meeting with the ninth plenary board of directors and supervisors of the Chinese National Federation of Industries that mainland China has been Taiwan's largest trading partner since 2003. This year the mainland also replaced Japan as Taiwan's largest importing economy. The strength and rise of the other side of the Strait cannot be ignored. The government will continue to uphold the position of "maximizing opportunities and minimizing risks" and conduct exchanges with mainland China under the principle of "putting Taiwan first for the benefit of the people," to have the full power to make decisions on economic and policy.

August 5, 2014
President Ma Ying-jeou stated during a meeting with participants at the 2014 East China Sea Peace Forum that the government has been actively seeking to improve cross-strait relations, and the Taiwan Strait is in the most peaceful and stable state in 65 years. The cross-strait reconciliation has not only increased exchanges and interaction between the two sides, but also led to greater mutual prosperity. Moreover, as disputes and antagonistic conflicts between the two sides began to decrease and mutual trust began to increase, such mutual trust extended into international affairs and helped the ROC to expand its international relations and space. The President also noted that differences exist between the two sides on the issue of sovereignty. The government has proposed a position of "mutual non-recognition of sovereignty" and "mutual non-denial of authority to govern," which allows the two sides to put aside the current insoluble sovereignty dispute and explore areas in which both sides can work together towards greater prosperity. The president also stated that the East China Sea Peace Initiative, though not a panacea, could mitigate disputes, buy more time to deal with more complex problems, and create a "win-win" or "multiple-win" situation.

August 5, 2014
The SEF and ARATS held the sixth regular meeting of the ECFA Cross-Strait Economic Cooperation Committee in Beijing. As a rule, the two sides reviewed the work progress under ECFA and planned work of the next stage. They also exchanged views on SME-related policies, and facilitation of agricultural inspection and quarantine, among other issues.

August 7, 2014
President Ma Ying-jeou stated during a meeting with a delegation led by U.S. House Armed Services Committee Chairman Howard McKeon that the government has sought to resolve disputes by using peaceful means in its handling of cross-strait relations. The two sides have signed 21 agreements and reached two consensuses. Furthermore, in February and June this year, Minister Wang Yu-chi of Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council and Director Zhang Zhijun of the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office met in Nanjing and Taipei respectively. This proves that substantive progress is being seen in cross-strait relations. The President further remarked that Taiwan's policy with regard to mainland China seeks long-term rather than short-term gain. The ultimate objective is to achieve peace and prosperity. The ROC will continue to play the roles of peacemaker and provider of humanitarian aid, with the hope of enabling the international community to understand that the existence of the ROC is an asset and not a liability to the world.

August 7, 2014
ARATS Vice President Sun Yafu stated at the Fifth "Peace and Prosperity Forum" held in Taipei that the peaceful development of cross-strait relations is consistent with the pursuit of a happy life by the people on both sides. Based on the belief of "one family across the Strait," the Mainland is willing to share its development opportunities and experience first with Taiwan compatriots and conduct cross-strait economic and trade cooperation. The direction of the peaceful development between the two sides over the past nearly six years cannot be changed, nor can this trend be interrupted. Backtracking should be avoided.

August 14, 2014
President Ma Ying-jeou stated during a meeting with a delegation of East Asian security experts from the U.S. Center for Strategic and International Studies that in a bid to ensure long-term peace and prosperity in the Taiwan Strait, the government has striven to improve relations with Mainland China. The two sides have signed 21 agreements and reached two consensuses. Furthermore, Minister Wang Yu-chi of Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council and Director Zhang Zhijun of the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office made reciprocal visits in February and June of this year, addressing each other by their formal titles. This remarked the first time in 65 years since the two sides came under separate rule that visits of this type were held, marking an important breakthrough.
The president also noted that the Mainland has long been Taiwan's largest trading partner. The government has worked to expand Taiwan's trade dealings with other regions over the past six years to disperse cross-strait trade risk and help control the reliance of Taiwan on trade with mainland China. This shows that the government has adopted a pragmatic trade policy that has been effective. The President further stated that mainland China is the world's factory and also the world's market. It is neither necessary nor possible for Taiwan to abandon or greatly reduce its trade with mainland China. The most important thing is for Taiwan to diversify its markets. Taiwan's major trading competitors in the region continue to develop mainland Chinese market, and if Taiwan does not sign trade agreements with mainland China, it would not benefit Taiwan. The president also stated that efforts by the government have turned around contentious relations between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait and international relations, from a "vicious cycle" to a "virtuous cycle." The government will continue to create an environment that features "peace in the Taiwan Strait and friendship within the international community."

August 18, 2014
Member of the Politburo Standing Committee of the Communist Party of China and Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference Yu Zhengsheng stated during a meeting with a Mainland economic and trade delegation from Taiwan's Chinese National Federation of Industries that cross-strait economic cooperation is the bond linking the interests of compatriots on both sides of the Strait, and it is an important driving force for promoting the peaceful development of cross-strait relations. The Mainland's policy and direction in promoting cross-strait economic cooperation will not change. The Mainland hopes to let Taiwan compatriots first share its development opportunities.

August 28, 2014
The MAC stated in a press release that in order to protect the nationals' personal safety and rights when traveling to the Mainland Area, Hong Kong and Macau, the MAC formulated the "Handling Principles for Issuing Travel Alerts for Mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau," which have been approved by the Executive Yuan. From September 1, the MAC will be in charge of issuing travel alerts for the Mainland Area, Hong Kong and Macau. The MAC stated that if incidents affecting travel safety (such as epidemics or natural disasters) occur in the Mainland Area, Hong Kong or Macau, it will use various resources to conduct a comprehensive study and assessment of known information as a basis for issuing travel warning information and warning lights. The warning light categories and meaning will be consistent with the current four-level warning system used by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), including gray (caution recommended), yellow (be aware of travel safety and reconsider visit plans), orange (avoid non-essential travel), and red (travel inadvisable). At the same time, in reference to the MOFA's current modus operandi, the travel alerts, scope and relevant information announced through this mechanism will be provided to the public as a reference. They will not be mandatory or binding, nor can they be directly used by the public as reference to terminate contracts or seek refunds from service providers. However, in the case of a related dispute, the public still could seek assistance from the Tourism Bureau of the Ministry of Transportation and Communications or the Civil Aeronautics Administration to meditate with service providers.

August 30, 2014
ARATS President Chen Deming stated during a meeting with a delegation of Taiwanese businesspeople visiting Guangdong and Jiangsu led by SEF Chairman Lin Join-sane in Huai'an, Jiangsu that, despite certain situations occurred in cross-strait relations this year, the direction of peaceful development remains unchanged. It is hoped for the two sides to both cherish and consolidate the mutual political trust that has been established, take active measures to deepen cross-strait economic, social and cultural exchanges and cooperation, and uphold and advance the peaceful development of cross-strait relations. He also noted that negotiations between the SEF and the ARATS have formed mature institutionalized mechanisms. It is hoped that the two sides can continue to actively promote progress of follow-up negotiations under the Cross-Strait Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA) so that the results of the agreements between the SEF and the ARATS can more widely benefit the grassroots public on both sides of the Taiwan Strait.

September 1, 2014
Taiwan Affairs Office Director Zhang Zhijun stated in a speech at the 20th Shandong-Taiwan Economic and Trade Fair that the peaceful development of cross-strait relations is an important premise and foundation for cross-strait economic development. Promoting institutionalized development is an inevitable demand for cross-strait economic cooperation and it is also beneficial for the cross-strait economic win-win situation. In the process of comprehensively deepening reforms, the Mainland is willing to give priority to Taiwan compatriots in market opening and share the opportunities brought by development. It is hoped that enterprises on both sides will work closely together, complement each other, and develop jointly.

September 2, 2014
Taiwan Affairs Office spokesperson Ma Xiaoguang stated in response to questions about the Hong Kong political reform plan that it is hoped that Taiwan will respect the development of Hong Kong's political system and respect the achievements of Hong Kong's successful practice of the "one country, two systems", and contribute more to the peaceful development of cross-strait relations. He also stressed that some people in Taiwan with an ulterior motive and try to discredit the "one country, two systems" principle, impair Hong Kong 's prosperity and stability, and hinder the development of cross-strait relations. These attempts are unpopular and unwelcome.

September 2-5, 2014
SEF Chairman Lin Join-sane led a delegation of SEF directors and supervisors to visit the Mainland. The group met with ARATS Chairman Chen Deming in Hangzhou for exchanges of view on operational affairs of the two organizations and matters related to follow-up negotiations.

September 5, 2014
Taiwan Affairs Office Director Zhang Zhijun stated in a speech at an overseas Chinese reception in San Francisco that, in the future, the Mainland's Taiwan work will cover three major aspects: first, to continue to strengthen and consolidate mutual political trust between the two sides, deepen and maintain the common acknowledgement of the "one China" framework, and ensure that the momentum of peaceful development of cross-strait relations would not be interrupted or undermined. Second, to continue to promote cross-strait exchanges and cooperation, pragmatically promote ECFA follow-up talks, and promptly reach consensus on the establishment of representative institutions between the SEF and the ARATS, joint research on common economic development across the Taiwan Strait, and linking up Taiwan's participation in regional economic integration so that more people may benefit from the peaceful development of cross-strait ties. Third, to continue to resolutely oppose "Taiwan independence" separatists, eliminate negative factors interfering with the peaceful development of cross-strait relations, exchanges and cooperation.

September 9, 2014
President Ma Ying-jeou stated in his remark at the 2014 Mid-Autumn Festival banquet for the representatives of Taiwanese-invested firms based in mainland China that, while mainland China is a member of neither the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) nor the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), it has been Taiwan's largest trading partner since 2003. In addition, starting this year it became Taiwan's largest source of imports. Globalization is the route Taiwan must take in the future. Taiwan cannot exclude mainland China in the process of globalization, particularly since the Mainland could become the world's largest economy in the next 10 to 20 years. Taiwan must pragmatically face this challenge in order to find space to survive among the United States, Japan, mainland China and other powerful international political entities.

September 12, 2014
Yu Zhengsheng, member of the Politburo Standing Committee of the Communist Party of China and Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, stated in the opening remark of the third forum of Taiwanese community that the peaceful development of cross-strait ties is the progress of enhancing the people's mutual interests and mutual trust of the two sides. The Mainland can understand that Taiwan compatriots have their own mentality for complex historical and realistic reasons and that the gap between the two sides will need time to resolve. The Mainland will adhere to the concept of "one family across the Strait" to make the cross-strait peaceful development an irreversible trend. He also stressed that hope for the Mainland and Taiwan economies to complement each other and develop together. The Mainland is willing to give priority to enterprises from Taiwan in Mainland market opening so that Taiwan compatriots may share the opportunities of the Mainland's development.

September 18-23, 2014
MAC Deputy Minister and SEF Vice Chairperson and Secretary-General Shih Hui-fen led a judicial exchange mission to the Mainland for a six-day exchange visit. The mission held exchanges and discussions with Mainland's judicial agencies and visit ARATS and other units.

September 24, 2014
ARATS Vice Chairman Zheng Lizhong led a six-person ARATS economic and trade mission to Taiwan for a seven-day visit. The group visited economic and trade parks in northern and central Taiwan and met with SEF Chairman Lin Join-sane.

September 24, 2014
Taiwan Affairs Office spokesperson Ma Xiaoguang stated at a regular press conference that the Taiwan issue and Scottish referendum issue are completely different in nature. The Mainland has never wavered from the position of adhering to the "one China" principle and opposing "Taiwan independence" separatism. He also stated that a meeting between the leaders of the two sides is a matter between the two sides and such a meeting does not need to take place at an international occasion. This is Mainland's consistent position and attitude. He noted that talks between the two sides on the text of the Cross-Strait Trade in Goods Agreement have achieved further consensus. In the future, the Mainland will adhere to the principle of "mutual understanding and advancing in the same direction" to actively plan the negotiation process and seek the early completion of the agreement with mutual opening, equality and mutual benefit. On the issue of the South China Sea sovereignty dispute, he said that South China Sea Islands and their adjacent islands are part of China's inherent territory. Safeguarding China's sovereignty and territorial integrity and protecting the overall interests of the Chinese nation are the shared responsibilities of compatriots on both sides.

September 26, 2014
The MAC stated in a press release that the ROC is a sovereign and independent country and that adherence to a free and democratic system is the core value of Taiwan. Related public opinion surveys show that over 70% of the Taiwanese people believe the "one country, two systems" formula to be inapplicable to Taiwan and cannot serve as a solution to cross-strait relations, demonstrating the fact that the mainstream public opinion in Taiwan does not identify with the "one country, two systems" formula. The ROC government cannot accept the Mainland's statements concerning "one country, two systems." The MAC stressed that the government insists on the greatest common denominator in Taiwan society, which is to maintain the cross-strait status quo of "no unification, no independence, and no use of force" under the ROC Constitution framework. In the future, the government will continue to follow the mainstream public opinion in steadily promoting cross-strait negotiations and exchanges so as to advance cross-strait mutual trust and understanding and to set a foundation for the future resolution of complex problems. Over the past six-plus years, the government has been committed to promoting peaceful and stable development of cross-strait relations on the basis of the "1992 Consensus of one China with respective interpretations." This policy direction will not change in the future.

September 26, 2014
CPC General Secretary Xi Jinping stated during a meeting with a visiting delegation of Taiwanese pro-reunification groups at the Great Hall of the People that "peaceful reunification and one country, two systems" are basic principles for resolving the Taiwan issue and also the best way to achieve national unification. The specific form of realizing the "one country, two systems" framework in Taiwan will fully consider current realities in Taiwan and fully take care of the interests of Taiwan compatriots. He further stated that the national unification sought is not just a nominal unification, but more importantly that compatriots on both sides of the Strait are in harmony with each other. The Mainland respects the social system and way of life chosen by Taiwan compatriots and is willing to narrow the psychological gap between compatriots on both sides of the Strait with sincerely, goodwill and affinity. At the same time, Taiwan compatriots also need to have greater understanding and awareness of the feelings and mindset of the 1.3 billion people in the Mainland and respect the choice and pursuits of Mainland compatriots.

September 26, 2014
Yu Zhengsheng, member of the Politburo Standing Committee of the Communist Party of China and Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, stated during a meeting in Beijing with a visiting delegation of Taiwanese pro-reunification groups that national reunification concerns the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity and is closely connected with the great rejuvenation of the Chinese ethnic group. Achieving national unification is the Mainland's unswerving goal and there is absolutely no room for compromise. The two sides must insist on the path of peaceful development of cross-straits relations, continuously boost cross-strait political mutual trust, and resolutely stop the "Taiwan independence" separatist conspiracy so that both sides can achieve common development in the process of peaceful development.

September 27, 2014
President Ma Ying-jeou stated during an interview by Qatar-based Al Jazeera English that the Republic of China is a sovereign state that is different from Hong Kong. Taiwan can not accept the Mainland's "one country, two systems" formula, though it can accept "one China with respective interpretations," since this is the consensus Taiwan reached with the Mainland on this issue in 1992. The president also stated that APEC is a very appropriate occasion for the leaders of the two sides to meet, though the Mainland believes it is inappropriate. Taiwan will continue to create conditions, but will not demand for its happening. The president further stated that Taiwan is a small and open economy that 70% of its economic growth depend on foreign trade. Mainland China, on the other hand, has become the world's second largest economy, and in 2003, it also became Taiwan's largest trading partner. This is an objective economic reality. Therefore, in the process of the development, the government will seek to minimize risks and maximize opportunities and cautiously engage in economic and trade activities with mainland China.

September 29, 2014
President Ma Ying-jeou attended the opening ceremonies of the 20th congress of the World Taiwanese Chambers of Commerce (WTCC) and the third joint conference of directors and supervisors. In his opening remarks, he urged the authorities in mainland China to heed the voice of the Hong Kong people and to adopt a peaceful and cautious attitude in handling the situation. Outside observers have expressed the hope that Hong Kong can gradually move toward democracy. Taiwan is confident that if universal suffrage can be achieved in the future, it will be a win-win situation for both Hong Kong and mainland China.

September 30, 2014
The MAC issued a statement in regard to recent actions by the people of Hong Kong seeking democratic universal suffrage. The government's long-standing policy has always been to support freedom, democracy, prosperity and stability in Hong Kong. The people of Hong Kong have long held high expectations to carry out democratic universal suffrage and regards it as an indicator of the Mainland's intention to honor its "one country, two systems" pledge. It is hoped that the Mainland and Hong Kong authorities may listen to the people's voices to allow smooth democratic progression in Hong Kong. This would not only ensure Hong Kong's long-term stability, but would also hold strong significance for long-term cross-strait development and be a key milestone on the whole ethnic Chinese society's path towards democracy and rule of law.

October 2, 2014
PRC President Xi Jinping stated the People's Republic of China's 65th anniversary reception that resolving the Taiwan issue and achieving complete reunification of the motherland is a shared aspiration for all ethnic Chinese people at home and abroad. Compatriots on both sides of the Strait should continue to work hard, consolidate and build on the good momentum for peaceful development of cross-strait relations, adhere to the "one China" principle, resolutely oppose "Taiwan independence" separatist activities, and create even better conditions for the peaceful unification of the motherland to form one family across the Strait and jointly realize the "China Dream."

October 7, 2014
President Ma Ying-jeou stated during a meeting with a delegation from the US Hudson Institute that the ROC government has striven to improve cross-strait relations. These efforts have led to clear changes in ties between the two sides, which have been under separate rule for 65 years. The Taiwan Strait has turned from a potential "flash point" into an "avenue of peace." The institutionalization of cross-strait rapprochement has helped to reduce the threat of military conflict because any unilateral change to the status quo would now have an enormous impact on cross-strait relations. The president noted that there was once a vicious cycle between cross-strait ties, on the one hand, and Taiwan's relations with the international community, on the other, but the government has been working to transform it into a virtuous cycle. Over the past six years, Taiwan has been invited to attend the World Health Assembly and the Assembly of the International Civil Aviation Organization, and the frequency of its participation in a wide range of international activities has increased. This represents a concrete example of how the government is successfully improving cross-strait relations and international relations at the same time. The President further stated that Taiwan is a part of East Asia area and inevitably must have close investment and trade relations with the Mainland. Taiwan must respond cautiously and not become overly-reliant on the Mainland. At the same time, Taiwan can not ignore the importance of the Mainland market.

October 9, 2014
MAC Minister Wang Yu-chi stated at a 2014 National Day welcome banquet for Hong Kong and Macau residents that, at the meeting between the heads of cross-strait competent authorities held in the first half of this year, the two sides reached a consensus on establishing normal communication and liaison mechanisms between their respective cross-strait competent authorities. This has major symbolic meaning for the further institutionalization of cross-strait relations and marks an important milestone in the development of cross-strait relations. Minister Wang further remarked on the goodwill shown by the two sides and the joint efforts to promote reconciliation in cross-strait relations. Both sides sought consensus in a process of mutual respect and understanding. Building further on this mutual trust is conducive to peaceful development in the East Asia region and also conforms to meet the common expectation of the international community.

October 10, 2014
President Ma Ying-jeou stated in his 2014 National Day Address that, over the past six years, Taiwan and the Chinese mainland have moved from confrontation to rapprochement and from antagonism to consultations. The ROC's constitutional democracy has played a role in this process. Whether in maintaining the status quo of no unification, no independence, and no use of force under the ROC constitutional framework, or in upholding the 1992 Consensus of "one China, respective interpretations," the government's policies have been formulated in accordance with the Constitution. In particular, the 1992 Consensus has been a key foundation for the past six years of peaceful cross-strait ties. Taiwan has stood firm and consistent on this stance. The 21 agreements Taiwan has signed with mainland China have been submitted to the Legislative Yuan, either to be placed on the public record or to undergo review. This means they are subject to legislative supervision. The government will continue to conduct cross-strait policy in line with this democratic mechanism. The two historic meetings between MAC Minister Wang Yu-chi and his mainland counterpart, Minister Zhang Zhijun of the Taiwan Affairs Office, further reflect the significant progress that has made in cross-strait relations and underscore the government's determination to safeguard peace and prosperity. President Ma urged those on the other side of the Taiwan Strait to take note that now is the most appropriate time for mainland China to move toward constitutional democracy. He also stated that if the Mainland makes good on a pledge made 17 years ago, when they said that for 50 years they would allow "rule of Hong Kong by the people of Hong Kong," "a high degree of autonomy," and "election of the chief executive through universal suffrage," it would be a sure-fire way to convert crisis into opportunity. It would definitely be a win-win scenario for both the Mainland and Hong Kong and would be strongly welcomed by the people of Taiwan. Such a course of action would also be a huge boost for the development of cross-strait relations. The President further stated that the people on the two sides of the Taiwan Strait share a common ancestry, culture, and history, and Taiwan would of course be happy to work hand-in-hand with people in the Mainland, Hong Kong, and Macau, share their experiences, and jointly seek out the best way forward to political and economic reform in the Mainland.

October 10, 2014
In regards to the issue of political reform in Hong Kong, Taiwan Affairs Office spokesperson Fan Liqing stated that though the Mainland respects the social system and way of life chosen by Taiwan compatriots, Taiwan "should not make irresponsible remarks on this matter, and she expressed hopes for Taiwan to respect the choice and pursuits of the 1.3 billion people of the Mainland. The spokesperson also noted that the peaceful development of cross-strait relations is a hard won　achievement that should be doubly cherished. The two sides should positively interact, advance in the same direction, build mutual trust, and do more things beneficial to promoting the development of cross-strait relations.

October 14, 2014
A Mainland delegation from the Zhejiang Province Ningbo Fisheries Trade Association was involved in a bus accident in Alishan, Chiayi County. The SEF notified the ARATS about the incident.

October 22, 2014
President Ma Ying-jeou stated during the Assembly Commemorating the 65th Anniversary of the Battle of Guningtou that the government has consistently maintained the cross-strait status quo of "no unification, no independence, and no use of force" under the framework of the ROC Constitution and promoted peaceful cross-strait development on the basis of the "1992 Consensus," whereby each side acknowledges the existence of "one China," but maintains its own interpretation of what that means. Over the past six-plus years, the SEF and the ARATS have held 10 meetings, signed 21 agreements and reached two consensuses, effectively deepening the mutual beneficial and cooperative relationship across the Taiwan Strait and further consolidating the future of cross-strait peace. The Taiwan Strait is at its most peaceful and prosperous state in 65 years. This situation is welcomed by the people of both sides and widely affirmed by the international community. In the future, the government will steadily and pragmatically promote cross-strait exchanges in keeping with the principles of "putting Taiwan first for the benefit of the people" and "parity, dignity, and reciprocity." The President also stressed that, although cross-strait relations have steadily improved, mainland China has not yet changed its military deployment against Taiwan. Therefore, the armed forces must continue to uphold the principle of "preventing war but not fearing it; preparing for war but not asking for it" in fulfilling their duty of homeland defense.

October 23, 2014
The Fourth Plenary Session of the 18th Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee deliberated and approved the "CCP Central Committee Decision concerning Some Major Questions in Comprehensively Moving Governing the Country According to the law Forward." The decision proposed safeguarding the "one country, two systems" practice and moving forward the unification of the motherland, maintaining Hong Kong, Macao long-term prosperity and stability, advancing peaceful unification of the motherland, and protecting the interests of Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan compatriots.

October 24, 2014
President Ma Ying-jeou stated at the Building A Competitive Taiwan Forum and breakfast meeting that, with respect to the future direction of cross-strait policy, the government has two policy objectives. First, the government will continue negotiations with the Mainland on the Cross-Strait Trade in Goods Agreement and hopes that the Legislative Yuan will promptly pass the Cross-Strait Trade in Services Agreement and Cross-Strait Agreement Supervisory Act. The government will engage in appropriate communication with the public on these issues, with the hope of having rational discussions. Second, the government hopes that Taiwan and mainland China can soon sign an agreement on the establishment of representative offices. that the purpose of such agreements is to provide services—there are no political implications or quasi-diplomatic arrangements. After all, "the cross-strait relationship is not an international relationship, but rather a type of special relationship."

October 25-31, 2014
ARATS Vice Chairman Zheng Lizhong led an agricultural, economic and trade exchange delegation to Taiwan. Accompanied by personnel of the SEF, the group primarily visited agriculture parks, farmers' associations, and agricultural companies.

October 27, 2014
President Ma Ying-jeou stated during a meeting with a delegation from the Center for a New American Security (CNAS) that the government has been promoting the institutionalization of cross-strait rapprochement and working to improve cross-strait relations. So far the two sides have signed 21 agreements and reached two consensuses, which has eliminated confrontation and reduced tension between the two sides. In February and June of this year, MAC Minister Wang Yu-chi and Minister Zhang Zhijun of mainland China's Taiwan Affairs Office engaged in reciprocal visits and addressed each other by their formal titles, the first time this had occurred in the 65 years since the two sides came under separate rule. Looking ahead, the government hopes the two sides will establish representative offices to further pursue the goal of peace and prosperity.

October 27, 2014
Responding to a report in the Global Times on counterespionage activities against Mainland students by Taiwan intelligence agents, Taiwan Affairs Office spokesperson Fan Liqing stated that the opening up for Mainland students to study in Taiwan is one of the important results of peaceful cross-strait development, and that the provision of a normal learning and living environment for Mainland students studying in Taiwan is Taiwan's due responsibility. Counterespionage activities by Taiwan intelligence agencies seriously harm security and healthy development of young students and obstruct cross-strait education exchanges and cooperation. The relevant parties in Taiwan should immediately stop such behavior.

October 28, 2014
The Mainland announced that the Fourth Plenary Session of the 18th Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee approved the "CCP Central Committee Decision concerning Some Major Questions in Comprehensively Moving Forward on Governing the Country According to the Law." Proposals in the decision related to Taiwan were to safeguard the "one country, two systems" practice and promote unification of the motherland in accordance to the law; consolidating and deepening peaceful development of cross-strait relations based on the rule of law; strengthening laws and regulations related to Taiwan; regulating and protecting cross-strait relations according to the law; and advancing cross-strait exchanges and cooperation. The decision also called for using legal means to safeguard the "one China" principle, oppose "Taiwan independence," further maintain the common acknowledgement of the "one China" framework, and advance the peaceful unification of the motherland; also, to protect the interests of Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan compatriots according to the law; and to strengthen the Mainland's respective law enforcement and judicial cooperation both with Hong Kong and Macao and with Taiwan to jointly fight cross-border criminal activity.

October 29, 2014
President Ma Ying-jeou stated at the opening ceremony of the 12th Global Views Monthly Global Views Business Forum that cross-strait economic and trade relations are indispensable to Taiwan's global layout in the process of globalization. The government therefore can not exclude mainland China. Peaceful development on the existing foundation is the only way for the two sides to jointly create a win-win outcome. The President also stated that the government will continue efforts to complete legislation of the Cross-Strait Agreement Supervisory Act so that the Cross-Strait Trade in Services Agreement can promptly take effect. The government will also complete negotiations on the Cross-Strait Trade in Goods Agreement to tangibly demonstrate Taiwan's sincerity and determination to open trade so that the international community can have faith that the ROC is a trustworthy trading partner.

October 29, 2014
Taiwan Affairs Office spokesperson Fan Liqing stated at a regular press conference that the Mainland would conscientiously implement the decision reached by the Fourth Plenary Session of the 18th Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee. The Mainland will consolidate and deepen the peaceful development of cross-strait relations based on the rule of law; strengthen laws and regulations related to Taiwan; regulate and protect cross-strait relations according to the law; and advance cross-strait exchanges and cooperation. The decision also called for using legal means to safeguard the "one China" principle, oppose "Taiwan independence," further maintain the common acknowledgement of the "one China" framework, and advance peaceful unification of the motherland. On the cross-strait spy case, the spokesperson stated that cross-strait relations may have some ups and downs, yet the mainstream public opinion on both sides of the Strait has not changed in its hope for peaceful cross-strait developments. The two sides should continue to take more initiatives and devote more effort to further promote peaceful development of cross-strait relations and steadily make new achievements. Furthermore, Taiwan students studying at institutes of higher education in the Mainland have been included in the Mainland's basic medical insurance program for urban residents and now enjoy basic medical insurance treatment on par with that for local Mainland students. The Mainland hopes that Taiwan will promptly make substantive progress on improving the medical treatment conditions of Mainland students in Taiwan.

October 30, 2014
President Ma Ying-jeou stated during a meeting with participants of the 12th Global Views Business Forum that Taiwan and mainland China have been divided by the Taiwan Strait and separately governed for 65 years. From the past situation of "no contact, no negotiations, and no compromise," the two sides have steadily expanded exchange and interaction. After a long hiatus, cross-strait negotiations have been resumed on the basis of the "1992 Consensus." So far the two sides have signed 21 agreements and achieved concrete results in numerous areas, demonstrating the correctness of the ROC government's policy direction of seeking peaceful cross-strait relations and advancing the happiness of the people. The President stated that promoting cross-strait exchanges and enhancing mutual understanding would help cross-strait relations develop in a positive direction. Citing the example of the policy on allowing Mainland students to study in Taiwan, the President noted that the ROC government takes a long-term view of the future and hopes that young people on both sides of the Strait can form friendships and develop mutual understanding early in life. Education is the best route to achieve this. Furthermore, Mainland students are expected to be included in Taiwan's health insurance program with premium rates comparable to those for foreign students, consistent with the principles of humanitarianism and fairness.

October 31, 2014
President Ma Ying-jeou stated in an interview by the New York Times that APEC is the most appropriate place for the leaders of the two sides of the Taiwan Strait to meet, as APEC has already settled questions of venue, title, and capacity. This is also highly supported by the public in Taiwan.
On the issue of democracy in Hong Kong, the President expressed the belief, that if mainland China can practice democracy in Hong Kong or if mainland China itself can become more democratic, it would shorten the psychological distance between people from the two sides of the Taiwan Strait. This would be a great step toward creating closer cross-strait ties over the long term. The President also noted that Taiwan could not possibly accept the "one country, two systems" model proposed by the Mainland. Taiwan supports "1992 Consensus of one China, with respective interpretations." The "1992 Consensus"remains a key foundation undergirding cross-strait relations. On the matter of participating in regional economic integration, the President stated that member countries of the Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (RCEP) account for 70% of Taiwan's foreign trade, so participation in these agreements is very important for Taiwan. He also stated that after the ROC government and the Mainland signed the Cross-Strait Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA), Taiwan has signed an investment agreement with Japan, an economic cooperation agreement with New Zealand and an economic partnership agreement with Singapore. Taiwan hopes to sign similar agreements with our main trading partners in Asia and Europe by simultaneously contacting many countries and negotiating accords with them one by one.

November 1, 2014
Mainland President Xi Jinping stated during an inspection visit to Fujian that the Pingtan Comprehensive Experimental Zone is a window for cooperation between Fujian and Taiwan, as well as a window for mainland China's opening to the world. The two sides must build a common homeland for joint development, pilot advancements, and scientific development by compatriots on both sides. He also said that the Mainland market is large and welcomes more Taiwanese enterprises to develop in the Mainland.

November 3, 2014
President Ma Ying-jeou expressed hope during a discussion on cross-strait relations with members of the delegation attending the 2014 22nd Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders' Meeting that former Vice President Vincent Siew could, during his meeting with the Mainland leader, make the Mainland authorities understand that Taiwan continues to pursue peace between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait based on the "1992 Consensus," whereby each side acknowledges the existence of "one China" but maintains its own interpretation of what that means. Taiwan has not changed its stance on this. At the same time, Taiwan hopes to continue strengthening opportunities for cross-strait cooperation.

November 4, 2014
President Ma Ying-jeou stated during a meeting with a delegation of the media from Europe and US stationed in Asia, that the government has been promoting the improvement in cross-strait relations and has signed 21 agreements. This accords with the interests of people on both sides. The President also said that Taiwan cannot accept the "one country, two systems" formula proposed by the Mainland. He further stressed that the underlying principle in promoting cross-strait relations is "no unification, no independence and no use of force." This is essential to achieving a stable and lasting framework for peaceful development. The ROC is a democratic sovereign state. All major policies are determined through democratic processes. This also applies to the future of cross-strait relations. The people will make related decisions in accordance with the Constitution. This principle will not change. Any major issues concerning cross-strait relations in the future will also be handled according to this principle.

November 5, 2014
SEF Chairman Lin Join-sane led a 10-person investigation mission to mainland China to visit Taiwanese businesspeople in Pingtan, Fujian Province. The group was accompanied by representatives from the ARATS and Fujian Provincial Taiwan Affairs Office.

November 9, 2014
The MAC stated in a press release that Vincent Siew attended the 2014 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) as the special representative of President Ma Ying-jeou and met with Mainland leader Xi Jinping. During their conversation, the two sides jointly reaffirmed the "1992 Consensus" as the crucial key to peaceful development of cross-strait relations and that both sides would continue to consolidate this foundation to secure more results favorable to the well-being of the people across the Strait. During the meeting, Mr. Siew proposed that the two sides should adhere to the "Three No Changes" in future promotion of cross-strait relations. These include no change in adhering to the objective of jointly safeguarding peaceful developments, no change in adhering to jointly consolidating the "1992 consensus" as an important foundation for cross-strait interactions and negotiations, and no change in jointly promoting institutionalized economic cooperation and enhancing the welfare of the people across the Strait. Mr. Siew also stressed that the two sides should establish a new mechanism for joint participation in regional integration and a new model for cross-strait economic cooperation, actively promote the completion of ECFA follow-up negotiations, and form a new cross-strait exchanges platform so the public may jointly participate in and share the fruits of cooperation.

November 9, 2014
General Secretary Xi Jinping of the Chinese Communist Party met with a delegation led by Honorary Chairman of Taiwan's Cross-Straits Common Market Foundation Vincent Siew at the Great Hall of the People, during which he stated that the two sides have established and will continue to build mutual trust on the common political basis of upholding the "1992 Consensus" and opposing "Taiwan independence." This is the key to ensuring the correct course and positive trend of peaceful development of cross-strait relations. The more difficulties and resistance cross-strait relations encounter, the more necessary it is to strengthen exchanges, build mutual trust, maintain positive interaction, advance in the same direction, and respect each other's choice of development path and social systems. General Secretary Xi expressed hopes for both sides to work together, eliminate interference, and take more active measures to expand and deepen cross-strait economic, cultural, technological, and educational exchanges and cooperation.

November 12, 2014
The MAC issued a press release stating that MAC Minister Wang Yu-chi met with Director Zhang Zhijun of the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) in Beijing. He presented a speech stating that cross-strait relations have significantly improved and progressed forward over the past six years, and the most crucial key for that has been the "1992 consensus." In the future, the two sides will continue to seek progress amidst stability on the basis of this greatest common denominator across the Strait, "the 1992 Consensus," and continue to promote peaceful and stable development of cross-strait relations. On to the matter of institutionalized cross-strait negotiations, both sides agreed to proactively promote operational talks for following negotiation issues, such as that for the Trade in Goods Agreement, and to concretely respond to respective concerns from each side of the strait. On the matter of reciprocal establishment of SEF-ARATS institutions, the two sides will pragmatically handle issues of mutual concern and push for early completion of negotiations in order to meet public expectations for high-quality service institutions. Furthermore, on the issue of Mainland tourist transits in Taiwan, the two sides will authorize the SEF and the ARATS to begin discussions and further communicate on facilitation measures for people's exchanges across the Strait. On the matters of cross-strait economic cooperation and joint participation in regional economic integration, the MAC and TAO will promptly begin substantive discussions based on the current preparatory work conducted for joint research. During the meeting, Minister Wang also stated that the two sides should strengthen notification and examination of information related to recent food safety incidents, adopt appropriate management measures so that cross-strait food safety and normal trade operations may both be ensured, and continue to promote cross-strait cultural, educational, technology and youth exchanges.

November 12, 2014
The MAC stated in a press release that Mainland Affairs Council Minister Wang Yu-chi visited the Institute of Taiwan Studies at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences for a symposium with Beijing scholars, during which he stated that future cross-strait interactions should seek progress amidst stability and seize opportunities. The two sides should continue to uphold the spirit of "shelving disputes and jointly creating a win-win outcome," seek consensus with sincerity and goodwill, and actively advance communication on issues such as trade in goods and reciprocal establishment of SEF–ARATS institutions to improve the well-being of the people on both sides. Furthermore, the two sides should also continue dedicating efforts to consolidate the pattern of peaceful and stable cross-strait developments while keeping in mind the mainstream public's opinions. Minister Wang stressed that, due to 65 years of separate governance across the Taiwan Strait, systemic and lifestyle differences exist between the two sides, therefore, through deeper exchanges in areas such as the rule of law, culture, and education, the two sides may continue to enhance mutual understanding and learn from each other in order to bridge the psychological and values divide, and further lay a solid foundation for long-term peace across the Strait. Minister Wang also said that cross-strait economic cooperation and joint cross-strait participation in regional economic integration should go hand in hand. If the Mainland might demonstrate a positive attitude, it could deepen public support in Taiwan for cross-strait economic cooperation.

November 12, 2014
Mainland TAO Director Zhang Zhijun stated during a meeting in Beijing with MAC Minister Wang Yu-chi that the two sides must continue to enhance political mutual trust on the basis of consolidating adherence to the "1992 Consensus" and opposing to "Taiwan independence." They must respect each other's choice of development path and social systems and properly handle differences. They must also maintain positive interaction and do more things conducive to enhancing affinity and well-being of compatriots on both sides, conducive to promoting the peaceful development of cross-strait relations, and conducive to promoting the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.

November 12, 2014
Mainland TAO Director Zhang Zhijun stated during a media interview after a meeting with MAC Minister Wang Yu-chi that the two sides reached a six-point consensus during the meeting. The most important consensus was that the two sides should adhere to the "1992 Consensus," continue to promote the peaceful development of cross-strait relations and continue to make new achievements to benefit the people on both sides. The two sides also agreed to continue promotion of ECFA follow-up talks, SEF-ARATS establishment of reciprocal institutions, Mainland tourist transits in Taiwan, facilitation of exchanges between the people on both sides, and cross-strait cultural, educational, scientific and youth exchanges. The two sides also reached consensus on how to start research on joint economic development across the Taiwan Strait and Taiwan's participation in regional economic integration. Director Zhang also noted that ECFA negotiations across the Strait started before the China-Korea FTA talks, as such, Taiwan must make efforts to facilitate progress.

November 14, 2014
President Ma Ying-jeou stated during a meeting with the ROC delegation that attended the 22nd APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting that, during his bilateral discussions with Mainland Chinese leader Xi Jinping, Leader's Representative Vincent Siew highlighted that the "1992 Consensus," whereby each side acknowledges the existence of "one China" but maintains its own interpretation of what that means, is the main basis for cross-strait peace. Both sides are willing to use this as the basis for the conduct of cross-strait relations. The president mentioned that during the APEC meetings mainland China and Korea announced the completion of substantive negotiations on a free trade agreement. He expressed hope that the legislative review of the Cross-Strait Agreement Supervisory Act and the Cross-Strait Trade in Services Agreement may be completed as soon as possible and that related preparatory work may be carried out so as to clearly demonstrate Taiwan's sincerity and determination to join the Trans-Pacific Partnership and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership to facilitate progress in globalization.

November 14, 2014
President Ma Ying-jeou stated in an interview by Nihon Keizai Shimbun that former Vice President Vincent Siew attended the APEC meeting this year as the ROC leader's representative and met with the Mainland leader Xi Jinping. During their conversation, both sides reiterated that the "1992 Consensus" is the basis for the development of peace between the two sides. On this foundation, the two sides will continue to seek progress amidst stability in their relations. MAC Minister Wang Yu-chi and TAO Director Zhang Zhijun also held talks. The two sides agreed to continue to move forward on the Cross-Strait Trade in Goods Agreement, mutual establishment of institutions by the SEF and the ARATS, Mainland tourist transits and other issues. This is a positive development for cross-strait relations. The President further noted that the 21 agreements signed with mainland China have laid a foundation for the development of peace between the two sides. This is a peace agreement defined in a broader sense. Both sides will continue to seek progress amidst stability in the general direction of "peaceful development and jointly creating a win-win outcome."

November 21, 2014
President Ma Ying-jeou stated during a meeting with a delegation led by Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for the US Department of State's Bureau of Economic and Business Affairs Kurt Tong that Taiwan and mainland China have been building relations on the foundation of the "1992 Consensus," whereby each side acknowledges the existence of "one China" but maintains its own interpretation of what that means. This has led to significant positive changes in the cross-strait relationship. The two sides have signed 21 agreements, reached consensus on two issues, and established an institutionalized negotiation mechanism. The heads of the agencies on each side responsible for cross-strait affairs have already met three times this year, and the two sides have expressed willingness to handle related issues with a pragmatic attitude. This shows that cross-strait relations will continue to develop in the direction of peace and stability.

November 25, 2014
TAO Director Zhang Zhijun stated at the inauguration of the Institute of Taiwan Studies at Tsinghua University that, since 2008, the two sides of the Taiwan Strait have maintained the positive trend of peaceful development and made significant progress in exchanges and cooperation on the common political basis of upholding the "1992 Consensus" and opposing "Taiwan independence." As cross-strait relations continue to move forward, new situations and new problems will be encountered. This will require the two sides and various sectors of society to work together, strengthen confidence, build mutual trust, mutual respect and positive interaction, further consolidate the common political basis for cross-strait relations, and deepen cross-strait exchanges and cooperation in the economic, trade cultural, educational, technology and other the fields.

November 26, 2014
The SEF and the ARATS held the first working talks in Beijing on the issue of Mainland tourist transits in Taiwan and affairs related to further facilitating exchanges between the people on both sides. During the meeting, the two sides exchanged views and agreed to jointly promote follow-up talks.

November 26, 2014
Taiwan Affairs Office spokesman Ma Xiaoguang expressed hope at a regular press conference for the Cross-Strait Trade in Services Agreement to be passed as soon as possible and for the two sides to work together to promptly begin talks on the high-level opening, equal and mutually beneficial Cross-Strait Trade in Goods Agreement. Furthermore, the ARATS and SEF will hold the first working talks on allowing Mainland residents to transit in Taiwan and further communicate on consensus reached on further facilitating exchanges between compatriots on both sides. The two sides will also communicate specifically on preparatory work for starting joint research on cross-strait economic cooperation, joint development and convergence in the regional economic cooperation process. Ma also emphasized that there are comprehensive historical records for the process of "1992 Consensus" reached between the two sides in 1992. The core of the "1992 consensus" is that the two sides of the Taiwan Strait agree to orally express their respective adherence to the "one China" principle, and the "1992 Consensus" acts as the political basis for peaceful development of cross-strait relations.

December 1, 2014
President Ma Ying-jeou stated during a meeting with a delegation joined by American Legion National Commander Michael D. Helm, his wife and American Legion Auxiliary National President Janet Jefford that the government has sought to maintain a peaceful relationship with Mainland China. To date, the two sides have signed 21 agreements covering a wide range of issues, including economic and trade ties, culture, crime-combatting, and nuclear energy safety. Even though the two sides have not signed any form of a peace agreement, the 21 agreements signed constitute a peace agreement in substance. Ties are at their most stable and peaceful.

December 9, 2014
ARATS Chairman Chen Deming led an "ARATS Economic and Trade Delegation" to Taiwan for an eight-day visit and met with SEF Chairman Lin Join-sane to exchange views on cross-strait relations.

December 11, 2014
The MAC announced the results of its latest poll of the "People's Views on Cross-Strait Issues." The results showed that the majority of the people agreed that the reiteration of promoting cross-strait relations on the "1992 Consensus" basis by the two sides during both the "Siew-Xi Meeting" and "Wang-Zhang Meeting" at the Beijing Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meeting in November this year was conducive to peaceful and stable development across the Taiwan Strait (67.4%), identifies with the government's position on the "1992 Consensus" (53.4%), and that cross-strait relation have eased since the meeting (53%). The MAC stressed that the "1992 Consensus" of "one China with respective interpretations," under which "one China" refers to the Republic of China, has been the key to substantial improvement and progress in cross-strait relations over the past six years. In the future, the government will continue to seek progress amidst stability based on the 1992 Consensus, which is the greatest common denominator between the two sides, and continue to advance peaceful and stable development of cross-strait relations. Furthermore, regarding the "Wang-Zhang Meeting" held after the 2014 APEC meeting, nearly 70% of the public believe the pragmatic exchange of views on cross-strait issues between the two sides to be conducive to handling cross-strait affairs. As for the many results achieved during the "Wang-Zhang Meeting," the poll showed that a majority of the public support active promotion of the establishment of SEF-ARATS reciprocal institutions so as to provide high-quality services to the people on both sides (76.7%); believe the cross-strait agreement to actively promote the Trade in Goods Agreement will contribute to economic cooperation between the two sides(68.7%); support the start of preparatory work for joint research in regional economic integration participation (59.3%); and support the authorization to the SEF and the ARATS to conduct talks on Mainland tourist transits in Taiwan (59.8%). The MAC stated that the government has started follow-up promotion work for agreements achieved at the "Wang-Zhang Meeting," such as that for future negotiations, Mainland tourist transits in Taiwan, and joint research on regional economic integration, strengthening the MAC-TAO liaison and communication platform, and facilitating the efficiency of handling cross-strait affairs.

December 17, 2014
Taiwan Affairs Office Spokesperson Fan Liqing stated at a regular press conference that the two sides are promoting peaceful development of cross-strait relations and creating a new era on the common political basis of upholding the "1992 Consensus" and opposing "Taiwan independence." The Mainland's guiding principles in promoting peaceful development of cross-strait relations will not change and hopes for the two sides to continue efforts on the existing common political foundation, advance in the same direction and promote steady cross-strait development. She also noted that young people are the future of cross-strait relations and that more active measures would be taken to strengthen youth exchanges across the Strait. The Mainland is also willing to create more conditions for Taiwanese youth to come to the Mainland to develop, study, work, and start businesses. Furthermore, cross-strait negotiations will continue to be promoted according to current progress made and also to cross-strait compatriots' demands, and the positive attitude in promoting cross-strait economic cooperation and ECFA follow-up issues such as cross-strait trade in goods has not changed.

December 21, 2014
The MAC stated in a press release that the objective of the government's Mainland policy has been to establish sustainable peace and prosperity across the Strait in order to safeguard national security, promote economic prosperity and protect the people's well-being. The government's policy direction is sound and pragmatic, it has created peace dividends and resulted in spillover effects in cross-strait and international relations, and has earned the support and affirmation of domestic public opinion and the international community. The MAC stated that the government has always adhered to the principle of openness and transparency when explaining cross-strait achievements to the public, will enhance communication work to win public support, and thus consolidate a firm foundation of public opinion for future cross-strait relations.

December 25, 2014
The MAC issued a press release announcing the results of the latest routine public opinion survey. The results showed that the great majority of the public agree that "peaceful and stable cross-strait relations are conducive to Taiwan's overall interests and future development" (70%) and support the government's position of maintaining the cross-strait status quo of "no unification, no independence, and no use of force" under the framework of the ROC Constitution (65.3%). The MAC indicated that 80% of the people surveyed this time agree that the two sides should continue to carry out private exchanges in various fields (80.9%), approve the government's continued promotion of normalization of official cross-strait interaction (77.1%), and support the continued handling of cross-strait exchange issues through institutionalized negotiations (74.8%). Furthermore, nearly 70% (67.6%) of the public showed support for the Legislative Yuan to promptly complete the Cross-Strait Agreement Supervisory Act's legislation.
The MAC stated that the government's Mainland policy is still supported and affirmed by the mainstream public. In the future, the government will adhere to the public opinion basis and insist on the set policy position in continuous promotion of cross-strait exchange, interaction, and negotiations on issues beneficial to the country, the well-being of the people, and to the ongoing peaceful and stable development of cross-strait relations.

December 29, 2014
Minister Zhang Zhijun of the TAO expressed hope in a New Year's message entitled "Maintaining Momentum, Overcoming Difficulties to Advance" published in the first 2015 edition of "Relations Across Taiwan Straits" magazine that cross-strait relations would be characterized by "stability, development and benefit for the people. "Stability" means maintaining the right course of peaceful development of cross-strait relations, continuing to adhere to the "1992 Consensus," and maintaining stability across the Taiwan Strait. "Development" means achieving new results in promoting the peaceful development of cross-strait relations, endeavoring to promote cross-strait negotiations and dialogue, and expanding and deepening cross-strait economic cooperation. "Benefit for the people" means to adopt more targeted policy measures so that the grassroots public in Taiwan may further enjoy the fruits of development in cross-strait relations.

December 29, 2014
ARATS Chairman Chen Deming stated in a New Year's message entitled "Walking, Cherishing, and Encouraging Progress" published in the first 2015 edition of "Relations Across Taiwan Straits" magazine that 2015 would be a year of both opportunities and difficulties in cross-strait relations. Compatriots on both sides of the Strait should uphold the brotherly spirit of "roots of one vein, one family across the Strait," maintain the right direction of peaceful development, continue, on the political basis of the "1992 consensus," to promote ECFA negotiations and negotiations on issues relevant to the livelihood of the people on both sides, and accumulate new results for the peaceful development of cross-strait relations.

December 31, 2014
Taiwan Affairs Office spokesperson Fan Liqing stated at a regular press conference that the "1992 Consensus" is a consensus reached, with comprehensive historical record, between the Mainland's ARATS and Taiwan's SEF at the 1992 Hong Kong talks and subsequent correspondences for each side to express orally that "both sides of the Taiwan Strait adhere to the one-China principle." On the basis of the "1992 Consensus," the two sides have made a series of important achievements. It is hoped that the various sectors in Taiwan will protect this basis for peaceful development of cross-strait relations. She also stated that the Mainland will continue in the New year to expand cross-strait exchanges and cooperation, enhance mutual understanding and trust, and propose response measures to issues that Taiwan compatriots urgently need resolving. At the same time, the Taiwan Affairs Office, the MAC and the heads of the two agencies should maintain regular contact, two-way exchanges and communication. The Mainland also welcomes Minister Wang Yu-chi to visit at an appropriate time next year, so that efforts may be joint to promote cross-strait exchanges and cooperation and also the peaceful development of cross-strait relations.