January 1, 2004
At a new year tea party of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, Chinese Premier Hu Jintao reiterates that the Mainland is firm in its guiding principles of peaceful reunification and "one country, two systems" and Jiang Zemin's "Eight-Point Proposal" to enhance cross-Strait personnel exchanges, as well as economic and cultural exchanges thus realizing the reunification of the country. He also states that the Mainland will show its utmost sincerity in firmly opposing any form of Taiwan independence, and will never allow anyone to split Taiwan away from China in any conceivable way.
January 6, 2004
In further promoting the "Three-Links," the Mainland establishes the "Economic and Trade Exchange Association" with Li Shuilin as its inaugural president and Wang Liaoping, Director of the Ministry's Department of Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macao Affairs, as Executive Vice President. The main function of the Association is on cross-Strait trade and economic exchanges.
January 13, 2004
In a meeting with overseas Chinese in New York, China's Taiwan Affairs Office Deputy Director Wang Zaixi speaks on the Taiwan issue stating that the Mainland side hopes for the stability of the situation across the Taiwan Strait. The solution of the cross-Strait issue cannot be as certain as a flight schedule. At the same time, he also states the Mainland side's consistent position against Taiwan independence.
January 14, 2004
In a regular press briefing, the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office Spokesperson Li Weiyi states that although cross-Strait relations have been fluctuating in the past year, the basic structure and the development trend have not changed. The Mainland will continue to be firm in its guiding principles of "peaceful reunification and one country, two systems" and carry out the four proposals of Premier Hu Jintao on Taiwan affairs, as well as to be firm in its principle of "one China" and to engage in a "resolute struggle" with Taiwan independence advocates.
January 19, 2004
In a forum commemorating the 9th anniversary of Jiang Zemin's "Eight-Point Proposal," Tang Jiaxuan, Councilor in charge of Taiwan Affairs at the Mainland's State Council, makes a statement warning President Chen Shui-bian against holding a public referendum on March 20, saying that such a referendum in Taiwan is a provocation designed to intensify the cross-Strait tention. At the same time, he states that the Mainland is still harboring hopes on the Taiwanese people in fighting for a peaceful cross-Strait reunification.
January 27, 2004
French President Jacques Chirac and Chinese President Hu Jintao sign a joint declaration pointing out that the French Government upholds in its consistent position on "one China," and opposes any unilateral move that aims to change the status quo, intensifies tension across the Strait, and leads to the independence of Taiwan, including the holding of a public referendum. The French Government believes that a constructive dialogue should be the foundation of cross-Strait relations and the Taiwan issue should be peacefully resolved to maintain regional stability and prosperity.
January 28, 2004
China's Ministry of Communications and the Xinhua Net jointly publish the latest report on current events entitled, "Chen Shui-bian will establish a new state in 2008; Critical period for solving Taiwan issue closing in," which analyzes the cross-Strait issue. The report points out that the public referendum is merely a beginning of Chen Shui-bian's plan to establish a new state in 2008 to achieve its goal of Taiwan independence in the end. Therefore, the report concludes that, "the positive and negative factors related to the Taiwan issue are developing rapidly, and the critical period of the solution of the Taiwan issue in the course of history is fast approaching."
January 28, 2004
Mainland President Hu Jintao delivers a speech at the French Parliament publicly thanking French President Jacques Chirac for standing on the side of mainland China and opposing the public referendum in Taiwan. He also reiterates the willingness of the Mainland to work hard for the materialization of a peaceful cross-Strait reunification based on the principle of "one China."
January 31, 2004
The Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office Director Chen Yunlin writes an article for the magazine, Cross-Strait Relations, pointing out that the Mainland "is harboring hopes on the Taiwanese people" and that it will continue to contain "Taiwanese independence" together with the Taiwanese people to maintain peace and stability in cross-Strait relations. It is hoped that in the coming year, the situation across the Strait will be stable, cross-Strait relations will develop in a healthy and stable manner, cross-Strait dialogue and negotiations will be resumed, and that the cross-Strait direct "Three-Links" will be materialized as soon as possible.
February 9, 2004
The Mainland's People's Liberation Army (PLA) publishes a signed article entitled "the Intensification and the Increasing Destructiveness of Creeping Taiwan Independence" stating that the defensive referendum is a "legalized representation to highlight the sovereignty of Taiwan" and that Taiwan's implementation of a defensive referendum is a form of "creeping Taiwan independence."
February 11, 2004
The Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office Spokesperson Zhang Mingqing stresses at a press briefing that Taiwan intends on the one hand to implement "a referendum that damages cross-Strait relations and imperils cross-Strait peace." Yet, on the other hand, it asserts to establish what they call an interaction framework for cross-Strait peace and stability. This is obviously deceiving the Taiwanese people and the international community. At the same time, he criticizes Taiwan's holding of a referendum pointing out that this is to pave the way for a future referendum on Taiwan independence. Zhang further states that neither has the Mainland side intervened in elections held in the Taiwan area, nor will it do so now or in the future.
February 11, 2004
The Mainland's Ministry of Public Security declares at a regular press briefing of the Taiwan Affairs Office that it will implement five simplified facilitation measures for cross-Strait personnel exchanges. Among these are the authorization of the Public Security Department of the Fujian Province to issue Taiwanese Compatriot Certificates that are valid for five years, the expansion of the scope of application of multiple-entry visas and visas for the long-term stay of Taiwanese people in the Mainland, and the relaxation of the qualifications for applicants obtaining a five-year residence visa in the Mainland.
February 23, 2004
While presiding over a group learning session of the Political Bureau of the CPC, Hu Jintao, general secretary of the CPC, points out for the first time that "the country's sovereignty and security should always be the first priority; the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity should be firmly maintained; and that the country's security and basic interests should be firmly maintained."
February 25, 2004
The Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office Deputy Director Li Bingcai states at the "Workshop for Taiwanese Companies Going Public on the Market in the Chinese Mainland" that they welcome and encourage more Taiwanese compatriots to make investments in the Mainland and more Taiwanese companies to go public on the market in the Mainland.
February 25, 2004
The Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office Spokesperson Li Weiyi expresses at a regular press briefing that they hope the Taiwanese authorities could eliminate the barriers as soon as possible and allow Mainland people to visit Taiwan for tourism.
February 25, 2004
Wang Huapeng, Deputy Director of the Taiwan Affairs Department of the Mainland's Press and Publication Administration announces at a regular press briefing of the Taiwan Affairs Office the new policies regarding cross-Strait publication exchanges. Starting in December 2004, Taiwanese businessmen can set up wholesale offices for Taiwan publications in the Mainland.
February 27, 2004
Mainland's State Councillor Tang Jiaxuan states at a ceremony commemorating the 32nd anniversary of the signing of the Sino-US Shanghai Communique that the proper handling of the Taiwan issue is the key to the stable development of Sino-US relations. He also points out that "peaceful reunification and the 'One Country, Two Systems'" are the basic guiding principles for solving the Taiwan issue. He hopes that the US will stick to its position on Taiwan's holding of a referendum.
March 3, 2004
In the second session of the Mainland's Tenth National Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), CPPCC Chairman Jia Qinglin proposes this year's new tasks over Taiwan Affairs Group with regard to the cross-Strait situation, which are to carry out the principle of placing hope on the Taiwanese people, forge the closest possible contact and ties between the people across the Strait, and unite the patriotic forces of all ethnicities and all walks of life in Taiwan who support the reunification of the motherland.
March 3, 2004
In the second session of the Mainland's Tenth National Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), Spokesperson Jiang Enzhu states that President Chen Shui-bian's insistence in holding the referendum and gambling on the interests of the Taiwanese compatriots to fulfill his personal desire for re-election is extremely immoral. He emphasizes that the Mainland will neither interfere in Taiwan's March 20 election, nor will it be concerned of the election itself. It is only concerned of the progress of the cross-Strait dialogue and negotiations, the opening up of the direct "Three-Links," and the advancement of cross-Strait peace and unification under the foundation of the "one China" principle after the election.
March 5, 2004
In his Government Work Report on the Mainland's Taiwan policy at the second session of the Tenth National People's Congress, Mainland Premier Wen Jiabao states that the Mainland will realize cross-Strait unification with its utmost sincerity and efforts and that it firmly opposes Taiwan independence and the separatist movement.
March 11, 2004
The Takung Pao reports that CPPCC Chairman Jia Qinglin participates in the panel discussion of the Taiwan delegation at the second session of the Tenth National CPPCC and reiterates that it is pointed out in the Mainland's Taiwan policy that to solve the cross-Strait issue, the principle of "placing hope on the Taiwanese people" shall be carried out.
March 14, 2004
At the press conference for local and foreign correspondents at the second session of the Mainland's Tenth National People's Congress, Premier Wen Jiabao proposes the four "utmost efforts" on its Taiwan policy, emphasizing that "we will exert our utmost to safeguard stability in the Taiwan Strait; we will exert our utmost to promote the three direct links and economic, cultural and people-to-people exchanges between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait; we will exert our utmost to press ahead with an early resumption of dialogue and negotiations between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait on the basis of the one-China principle; we will exert our utmost efforts to advance the cause of peaceful reunification of the motherland."
March 20, 2004
The Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office issues a brief statement on the public referendum held in Taiwan, reiterating the Mainland's opposition against the referendum. The statement points out that the peace referendum being held in Taiwan on March 20 "is a provocative attempt to undermine cross-Straits relations and split the motherland and is doomed to failure."
March 23, 2004
During his visit to North Korea, Mainland's Foreign Minister Li Zaoxing comments on Taiwan's presidential election pointing out that whatever the results of the election may be, it "will not change the fact that there is only one China and that Taiwan is part of China."
March 25, 2004
Mainland's State Councilor Tang Jiaxuan comments on Taiwan's presidential election stating that Beijing is closely observing the development of the situation in Taiwan and that the Taiwanese people should come to their own conclusions on the election controversy.
March 26, 2004
The Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office releases a statement on Taiwan's post-election situation pointing out that "we will not just sit idly and watch if the Taiwan situation loses control and causes social unrest that endangers the security of the lives and possessions of the Taiwanese compatriots and harms the stability across the Taiwan Strait."
March 30, 2004
On President Chen Shui-bian's exclusive interview with the Washington Post, the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office responds by criticizing that President Chen Shui-bian "has once again wantonly issued statements advocating Taiwan indpendence and separatism and has clearly indicated his position to promote Taiwanese independence" in the interview.
April 10, 2004
In an address at the 2004 International Summit for the Peaceful Unification of China, the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office spokesperson Zhang Mingqing states that the determination and capability of the Mainland authorities and the 1.3 billion Chinese people to maintain its national unity and to preserve its sovereignty and territorial integrity at all costs should not be underestimated by any individual or any party. He also emphasizes that the Mainland has never abandoned its efforts at peace and will continue to work for peaceful unification through its utmost sincerity and efforts. However, it firmly opposes any form of splitting activities by the Taiwan independence forces.
April 13, 2004
PRC Vice President Zeng Qinghong states to visiting US Vice President Cheney that there is only one China in the world and that Taiwan is a part of China, a fact that the election results in Taiwan cannot change. He hopes that the US side will stop selling weapons to Taiwan and will not send wrong signals to Taiwan independence advocates.
April 14, 2004
The Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office spokesperson Li Weiyi criticizes in a press briefing that President Chen Shui-bian's timetable for the referendum on the formulation of a new constitution in 2006 is "plainly a timetable for Taiwan independence," which will cause tension and danger in the Taiwan Strait. He reiterates that the principle of "one China" is the foundation for cross-Strait dialogue and negotiations. The Mainland will not change its position. Cross-Strait negotiations will be resumed anytime as long as the principle of "one China" is acknowledged.
April 14, 2004
PRC President Hu Jintao states during his meeting with US Vice President Cheney that the greatest threat to peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait is the separatist movement waged by Taiwan independence forces. He also demands the US side to honor its commitments and oppose Taiwan independence and any words or deeds by Taiwan leader to unilaterally change the status quo of Taiwan.
April 14, 2004
Chairman of the Chinese Communist Party's Central Military Commission Jiang Zemin asserts during his meeting with US Vice President Cheney that "the Taiwan issue involves the national sovereignty and territorial integrity of China, as well as the future course of Sino-US relations and the peace and stability of the Asia-Pacific region." He hopes that the US will adhere to its commitments on the Taiwan issue and will not send any wrong signals to "Taiwan independence" forces. As soon as the Taiwan issue is solved, there will be greater room for the development of Sino-US relations.
April 20, 2004
In a meeting with Dr. Jong-Wook Lee, Director-General of the World Health Organization, PRC President Hu Jintao states that it wishes to promote cross-Strait exchanges in the areas of medical & health under the foundation of the principle of "one China" to assist Taiwanese health experts in joining international activities on health and medicine.
April 23, 2004
In a meeting with former US President George H.W. Bush at the Boao Forum on Hainan Island, PRC President Hu Jintao reiterates that the Taiwan issue is the most important and most sensitive core issue in Sino-US relations. The firm opposition against Taiwan independence is very important to the preservation of peace in the Taiwan Strait and to the development of "Sino"-US relations.
April 28, 2004
PRC Premier Wen Jiabao expresses during an interview with the Irish Times that the Taiwan issue is entirely different in nature from the North Ireland issue. The Mainland's Taiwan policy is to adhere to the "peaceful reunification" and "one country, two systems" and achieve peaceful reunification through its greatest efforts. However, it will not allow Taiwan's separation from China.
May 12, 2004
In a press briefing, Li Weiyi, Spokesperson of the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office states a recommendation with regard to the formulation of a "unification law," which the Mainland authorities will seriously consider and adopt. He also states that the guiding principles of the Mainland's Taiwan policy will not change, and that both sides of the Strait should conduct equal negotiations on the foundation of the principle of "One China."
May 17, 2004
The Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office is authorized to release a statement on the issue of current cross-Strait relations expressing that at present, the relations across the Taiwan Straits are severely tested, and proposing their position consisting of "the seven proclamations" and "the five disagreements."
May 20, 2004
The PRC's Ministry of Foreign Affairs issues a statement with regard to the inaugural address of President Chen Shui-bian and criticizes his policies as the "greatest threat to peace and stability" across the Taiwan Strait. The US is urged to refrain from transmitting erroneous signals to Taiwanese independence advocates.
May 24, 2004
At a regular press briefing, Zhang Mingqing, Director of the Information Bureau of the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office, expresses that the May 20 inaugural address is filled with suggestions that "Taiwan is an independent country." President Chen Shui-bian has not abandoned his position on Taiwanese independence, and has not transmitted any goodwill and sincerity to improve cross-Strait relations. At the same time, he also expresses their refusal to welcome Taiwanese people who make money in the Mainland and return to Taiwan to support "Taiwanese independence."
May 28, 2004
An official of the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office expresses that the premise for Wang Daohan's visit to Taiwan is that Taiwan should acknowledge the principle of "One China." Once the Taiwan side agrees with the premise, both Koo and Wang can meet right away.
June 3, 2004
Spokesperson of the PRC's Taiwan Affairs Office Zhang Mingqing stresses that the Mainland's position on its trade and economic policy with Taiwan has been clearly stated in the "May 17 Statement." Every concrete measure is founded on the contents of the Statement. However, an official of the Taiwan Affairs Office acknowledged in private that the principle of "handling affairs in accordance with the law" will be adopted in dealing with the investments and operations of "pro-green Taiwanese businessmen" in the future; these will not be handled leniently, as in previous cases.
June 13, 2004
With regard to the public criticism by the overseas edition of the People's Daily of pro-green Taiwanese businessmen, Spokesperson of the PRC's Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office Zhang Mingqing makes an unprecedented official response during a meeting with a Taiwanese press delegation at Harbin emphasizing that this matter is targeted only at a few Taiwanese businessmen. The lawful interests of the majority of Taiwanese businessmen are still being protected. At the same time, he states that the foundation for a Koo-Wang meeting does not exist under the present cross-Strait atmosphere.
June 15, 2004
In a regular press briefing of the PRC's Foreign Affairs Ministry, Spokesperson Zhang Qiyue asserts that Taiwan is part of China and is not qualified to join the World Health Organization (WHO) as a member country or an associate member. Neither does it have the qualification to participate in the activities of the WHO as an observer. The real motive behind the Taiwan authorities' attempts to join the WHO is to create "two Chinas" and "One China, One Taiwan" in the international arena.
June 16, 2004
During a press briefing conducted by the PRC's Ministry of Commerce on its holding of an International Fair for Investment and Trade, Vice Minister Ma Xiuhong emphasizes that the Mainland's policy to encourage Taiwanese businessmen to investment in the Mainland has not changed. However, the Mainland is firmly opposed to Taiwanese businessmen or other people supporting Taiwanese independence.
June 17, 2004
During an interview by reporters from both sides of the Strait in Fuzhou, Deputy Director of the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office Wang Zaixi points out that the Mainland's policy on cross-Strait exchanges after May 20 has not changed; policies on Taiwanese businessmen and Taiwanese artists at present have not been affected. The protest against A-Mei in Hangzhou was just an indiviual case.
June 30, 2004
At a regular press briefing of the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office, Spokesperson Li Weiyi expresses that the "Three-Links" are an internal affairs of the Chinese people on both sides of the Strait. The core message of the previous statements of Qian Qichen on the "Three-Links" is that this is a "domestic affair." Under this premise, negotiations on its operations and other technical aspects may not involve the political significance of "one China." If the Taiwan side indeed is sincere and agrees with the entire position and opinion of Qian Qichen on the "Three-Links" issue, then the Mainland welcomes Taiwan's authorization of any civilian organization or industrial organization to negotiate the "Three-Links" at any time.
July 8, 2004
In receiving visiting US national security adviser Condoleezza Rice in Beijing, Jiang Zemin, Chairman of the Central Military Commission of the Communist Party of China, expresses his serious concern about and dissatisfaction with Taiwan's arms purchase from the US, and states that the Mainland persists in its guiding principles of "peaceful unification" and "one country, two systems" toward Taiwan and that it will never tolerate Taiwanese independence.
July 8, 2004
In a meeting with the visiting US national security adviser Condoleezza Rice in Beijing, PRC's Minister of Foreign Affairs Li Zhaoxing declares that Taiwan is part of China. There will be nothing to discuss once the foundation of the principle of "one China" is abandoned. Li also mentions his "three stops" request, which is strongly demanding the US to stop military communications with Taiwan, to stop official communications with Taiwan, and to stop supporting Taiwan's participation in the activities of international organizations that only sovereign countries can join.
July 11, 2004
Regarding the visit to Taiwan by Singaporean Deputy Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, PRC's Minister of Affairs Spokesperson Zhang Qiyue states that the Taiwan issue directly affects the Mainland's sovereignty and territorial integrity and that the Mainland is firmly opposed to countries that have diplomatic relations with China conducting any form of official exchanges with Taiwanese authorities.
July 13, 2004
The PRC's Minister of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Zhang Qiyue declares in a regular press briefing that the Taiwan issue is an internal affair of the Mainland. The Mainland has never allowed, and will never allow any country or any individual to pass on certain messages for both sides of the Strait. She states that it is the Taiwanese independence forces that are the threat to peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. No individual should transmit any wrong signals to them.
July 13, 2004
Sun Weide, Spokesperson of the PRC's embassy in Washington D. C., points out that the Taiwan issue involves the Mainland's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and has all along been the most important and the most sensitive issue existing between China and the US. The Mainland persists in its guiding principles of "one China" and the "one country, two systems," and will exert its unremitting efforts in peacefully solving of the Taiwan issue. The Mainland will never condone Taiwan's independence.
July 28, 2004
Addressing the opening ceremony of the Forum on Cross-Strait Relations, Deputy Director Wang Zaixi of the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office emphasizes that contemporary cross-Strait relations are grim, and that the development of the Taiwanese independence forces and its separatist activities are increasingly becoming the greatest threat to the peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. At the same time, he also warns that it would be extremely dangerous if the Taiwan authorities act arbitrarily, and continue to wrongly assume that the Mainland will tolerate the separatist activities of the Taiwanese independence forces in view of its development of its economy and holding of the Olympics.
July 28, 2004
In an interview after the opening ceremonies of the Forum on Cross-Strait Relations, Deputy Director Wang Zaixi of the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office states that the Mainland hopes Taiwan will view the cross-Strait "Three-Links" and the direct transportation links as domestic affairs, and that cross-Strait routes are domestic routes.
July 28, 2004
Deputy Director Sun Yafu of the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office explains that the Mainland believes that a few minority of the Taiwanese businessmen supporting Taiwanese independence are those that "stubbornly cling to the advocacy and position of Taiwanese independence, actively participate in separatist activities of Taiwanese independence advocates, and create extremely abominable influences."
July 29, 2004
In an interview with the Taiwanese media during the Forum on Cross-Strait Relations, Deputy Director Wang Zaixi of the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office states that there is no official document in the Mainland's internal quarters demanding that the "Taiwan issue" be necessarily solved by 2020. As to the formulation of a Unification Law or an Anti-separatist Law, it is still under serious study. But if the separatist elements of Taiwanese independence persist in holding a referendum on the formulation of a new Constitution in 2008, the possibility of the outbreak of a cross-Strait war is not excluded.
July 29, 2004
The Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office Deputy Director Sun Yafu points out that both sides of the Strait can resume dialogue and talks, conduct negotiations on an equal basis, officially terminate the current state of antagonism, establish a mechanism of military mutual trust across the Strait, and jointly create cross-Strait relations that are within the framework of peaceful and stable development, as long as the Taiwan authorities recognize that both the Mainland and Taiwan belong to "One China". He further proposes three views on cross-Strait trade and economic relations, that is, both sides jointly oppose Taiwanese independence, the Mainland will continue to encourage cross-Strait trade and economic exchanges and cooperation, and the cross-Strait comprehensive "Three-Links" will continue to be promoted after all obstructions have been eliminated.
July 30, 2004
US President George Bush calls Mainland President Hu Jintao aboard the Air Force 1. In their discussion about the Taiwan issue, Hu Jintao states that they will strive to show their greatest sincerity and exert their best efforts in solving the Taiwan issue by peaceful means, but they will not tolerate Taiwanese independence, and will not allow any individual to separate Taiwan away from the motherland. Furthermore, they oppose the sale of modernized weapons to Taiwan by the US.
July 31, 2004
During the cocktail party on the occasion of the 77th founding anniversary of the Mainland's People's Liberation Army, PRC's Defense Minister Cao Gangchuan states that there is no peace in "Taiwanese independence," and that there is no stability in division. The Mainland will continue to persist in its guiding principles of "peaceful unification" and "one country, two systems." If the separatist forces of the "Taiwanese independence advocates" continue to act arbitrarily, the Mainland army is determined and is capable of and resolute in crushing any separatist attempts of the "Taiwanese independence advocates."
August 3, 2004
Receiving Ted Stevens, president pro tempore of the US Senate, at the People's Congress Hall in Beijing, PRC President Hu Jintao urges the US to stop arms sales to Taiwan, to abide by its promises on the Taiwan issue, and to implement them by concrete action, as well as refrain from sending erroneous signals to Taiwan.
August 4, 2004
Receiving Ted Stevens, president pro tempore of the US Senate, PRC Premier Wen Jiabao, reiterates the Mainland's principle and stance in preserving its integrity, and that Taiwan is part of its territory that cannot be split away. Beijing authorities hope that the US side will abide by its promises, and that the US Congress will be able to properly understand and cautiously handle the Taiwan issue, and accomplish matters that are favorable to the stability of the situation across the Taiwan Strait.
August 6, 2004
Speaking at the "Forum on the Peaceful Reunification of China" held by the "Association for Promoting Reunification of China," Deputy Director Wang Zaixi of the PRC's Taiwan Affairs Office reiterates that Beijing insists on "peaceful reunification" and "one country, two systems" as the basic guiding principles for the development of cross-Strait relations. This position will never change.
August 10, 2004
At the post-conference dialogue of the 35th Pacific Islands Forum, PRC Vice-Foreign Minister Zhou Wenzhong reiterates the guiding principles of "peaceful reunification" and "one country, two systems," and that "Taiwan independence" will not be tolerated. He emphasizes that the separatist activities of the "Taiwan independence" remain the greatest threat to the present peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, hoping that the international community will fully understand the sensitivity and danger of this state of affairs.
August 11, 2004
PRC Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Kong Quan points out in Beijing that China is firmly opposed against the proposal of Chad and other countries requesting the 59th United Nations Assembly to deliberate on the issue of Taiwan's representation in the United Nations.
August 12, 2004
China's Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN Zhang Yishan meets with UN Deputy-Secretary General Louise Frechette, and hands over a letter to UN Secretary General Kofi A. Annan. The letter points out that Taiwan is an area part of the PRC, and that the PRC's scope of representation at the United Nations naturally includes Taiwan. There is simply no such issue as the so-called "Taiwan's representation in the United Nations."
August 12, 2004
At the celebrations held at the People's Congress Hall in Beijing commemorating China National Radio's (CNR) 50th anniversary of broadcasting to Taiwan, Xu Guangchuan, deputy head of the Propaganda Department of the CPC Central Committee and Director of State Administration of Radio, Film, and Television, states that CNR will surely carry through the principles of the "three closenesses" in the future, and continue to augment the propaganda on "peaceful reunification" and "one country, two systems," to make the programs broadcasted to Taiwan well-loved by the people on the island.
August 20, 2004
At the "Forum on Related Problems Encountered by Taiwanese Enterprises Going Public" held in Suzhou, He Shizhong, director of the Economic Department of PRC Taiwan Affairs Office, states that the Mainland will try its best to use legal means to help Taiwanese businessmen solve financing difficulties that arise in their business operations.
August 20, 2004
With regard to the two successive incidents involving the collective "disappearance" of Mainland tourists in Taiwan since July, Cui Zhikun, director of the Bureau of the Exit-Entry Administration of the PRC's Ministry of Public Security urges Taiwan to send its representatives to the Mainland as soon as possible for joint negotiations to resolve this new form of stealing into the island of Taiwan. The best solution to the problem is for Taiwan to allow Mainland people to come directly to Taiwan for sightseeing.
August 22, 2004
At the 100th anniversary celebration of Deng Xiaoping's birthday, PRC President Hu Jintao states that the Chinese authorities will continue to carry out the basic guiding principles of "peaceful reunification" and "one country, two systems," and the present-stage development of cross-Strait relations, to push on the eight proposals for the motherland's peaceful reunification timetable, to vigorously expand cross-Strait personnel exchanges, as well as economic and cultural exchanges, and create a new prospect for cross-Strait economic cooperation. He also emphasizes that Mainland authorities will fight for peaceful reunification through their utmost sincerity and efforts; at the same time, they are also determined and capable of smashing any plot to separate Taiwan away from China.
August 29, 2004
With regard to the draft of the US Republican Party's new platform involving the cross-Strait issue, PRC Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Kong Quan states in response to reporters' questions that the proper handling of the Taiwan issue is the key to developing constructive cooperation between the US and China. The three Sino-US communiques are the political foundations of Sino-US relations. The Chinese side is firmly opposed against any statement or action that runs counter to the three Sino-US communiques.
September 3, 2004
The Spokesperson for PRC's Taiwan Affairs Office states that President Chen Shui-bian's so-called "abbreviated form of the country's name" has once again exposed the nature of his separatist attempt to produce an "independent Taiwan." There is only one China in the world, and both Taiwan and the Mainland belong to the same China. And China's sovereignty and territor are inalienable. The separatist plot of Chen Shui-bian's "Taiwanese independence" is contrary to the will of the people and will never succeed.
September 9, 2004
Hosting a forum for Taiwanese-owned enterprises, Wu Yi, Vice Premier of the PRC's State Council states that the investment environment in the Mainland will be further improved, to fully safeguard the legal interests of the Taiwanese businessmen. Taiwanese compatriots are encouraged to proceed to motherland China to invest and develop their businesses.
September 14, 2004
Meeting with US Assistant Secretary of State James A. Kelly in Beijing, PRC Deputy Foreign Vice Minister Zhou Wenzhong reiterates the Mainland's solemn stand on the Taiwan issue and demands the US side to adhere to the policy of "one China" in real action, to abide by the "three Sino-US communiques," to oppose against "Taiwanese independence," and to stop selling arms to Taiwan.
September 14, 2004
On Taiwan First Lady Wu Sue-jen's heading the delegation to the Athens 2004 Paralympic Games, PRC Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Kong Quan states in a regular press briefing that it is hoped that the International Paralympic Committee will execute United Nations Resolution 2758 to properly handle the issue of "one China."
September 15, 2004
Spokesperson Zhang Mingqing of the PRC's Taiwan Affairs Office states in a press briefing that the "abbreviated title for the country" advocated by Taiwan authorities has once again exposed Chen Shui-bian's attempt to carry out separatism and "Taiwanese independence," which constitutes an inevitable reflection of the pro-independence nature of Chen Shui-bian. As for the missing Mainland tourists in Taiwan, Zhang Mingqing states that the principle cause of the problem is the unreasonable policy of the Taiwan authorities in obstructing Mainland people from traveling to Taiwan for sightseeing.
September 16, 2004
PRC Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Kong Quan points out that as a part of China, Taiwan does not qualify to be admitted to the United Nations, which is an organization composed of sovereign countries. Any action that runs counter to the aims and principles of the United Nations Charter, that violates United Nations Resolution 2758, or that challenges the principle of "one China" acknowledged by the international community, will never obtain the support of the majority of member countries of the United Nations. The 1.3 billion Chinese people, including Taiwanese compatriots, are not even in favor of this.
September 19, 2004
The communique of the Fourth Plenum of the 16th CPC Central Committee points out that the basic guidelines of the "peaceful reunification and one country, two systems," as well as the development of cross-Strait relations in the present stage must be implemented; the Eight-Point Proposal for the peaceful reunification of the motherland must be pushed on; and that the great cause of the reunification of the motherland must be promoted. China is firmly against and must deter the "Taiwanese independence" separatist forces, and stands unswervingly in defending the national sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country.
September 20, 2004
Former PRC Central Military Commission Chairman Jiang Zemin states at the expanded conference of the Commission that with regard to the Taiwan issue, the People's Liberation Army is required to get itself prepared in military battles, and to "carry out its sacred mission to defend the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country." He also emphasizes that utmost sincerity and great efforts are required to solve the Taiwan issue, in order to realize peaceful reunification. However, never will China promise to abandon the use of force.
September 20, 2004
PRC President Hu Jintao points out at the expanded conference of the PRC Central Military Commission that the one major issue that is of utmost concern to Chairman Mao and Comrade Deng is the realization of the reunification of the motherland. To solve the Taiwan issue, we must work in utmost sincerity and exert all the possible efforts to realize peaceful reunification. However, never will we promise to abandon the use of force. This is a key political principle. The military should prepare itself for military battles. The better the army is prepared for military battles, the stronger the possibility of achieving the prospect of peaceful reunification.
September 22, 2004
Deputy Director Li Bingcai of the Taiwan Affairs Office of the PRC's State Council states at the Symposium on Trade and Economic Cooperation between Jiangxi and Taiwan that in accordance with the objective patterns of economic development and the expectations of Taiwanese business development, the Mainland will open its capitalist market and fully encourage Taiwanese-owned companies to go public in the Mainland.
September 24, 2004
Vice Governor Wang Meixiang of the PRC's Fujian Province states that the Fujian authorities have recently decided to allow Fujian residents to travel to Kinmen for sightseeing.
September 26, 2004
The Fourth Plenum of the 16th CPC Central Committee approves to adopt a "CPC Central Committee Decision on the Enhancement of the Party's Governance Capability", which contains the following stipulations: the firm opposition against and the deterrent on "Taiwanese independence" separatist forces; the firm opposition against and the restraining of other countries from interfering in cross-Strait affairs; the determination to quell all attempts to split Taiwan away from China; and the unswerving will to defend the national sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country.
September 27, 2004
In his address at the 50th General Assembly of the United Nations, PRC Foreign Minister Li Zaoxing states that China hopes the international community will fully understand the complex and sensitive nature of the present situation across the Taiwan Strait, will clearly see that the serious harm that the Taiwanese authorities are inflicting on the stability across the Taiwan Straits and the peace in the Asia-Pacific region by engaging in activities that aim to split China, to continue to support the efforts of the Chinese Government in the realization of the peaceful reunification of the country, and to jointly curb the "Taiwanese independence" separatist activities, to promote stability across the Taiwan Strait and world peace.
September 29, 2004
Spokesperson Li Weiyi of the PRC's Taiwan Affairs Office states in a regular press briefing that only when the Taiwan side acknowledges the consensus achieved by the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait and the Straits Exchange Foundation, that is, both sides of the Strait insist on principle of "one China," shall another Koo-Wang meeting be realized and will the functions of both organizations be given full play. The unilateral decisions made by the Taiwanese authorities to change the state that Taiwan is a part of China, including those made through referendums, are illegal and invalid. Never will anyone be allowed to split Taiwan away from China by any means.
September 30, 2004
Premier Wen Jiabao of the PRC's State Council points out during his address at the reception commemorating the 55th anniversary of the PRC's establishment on October 1, 1949 that the basic principle of "peaceful reunification and one country, two systems" and the "Eight-Point Proposal;" the firm opposition against and suppression of the "Taiwanese independence" separatist forces; and the unswerving determination to defend the national sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country, shall continue to be implemented. The sacred goal of complete unification of the motherland must be realized and shall be realized!
October 9, 2004
In his address to the leaders of Asian and European nations attending the Fifth Asian and European Summit, PRC Premier Wen Jiabao states that "Taiwanese independence" poses the greatest danger to the situation across the Strait. The Chinese government will fight for peaceful reunification using its utmost sincerity and its greatest efforts. However, they will never allow Taiwan to be separated from its motherland.
October 13, 2004
Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office Spokesperson Zhang Mingqing states at a regular press briefing that the special project on the chartered flights for Taiwanese businessmen during the Chinese Lunar New Year Holidays has been previously implemented. At that time, they proposed cross-Strait direct air links based on the principles of "direct and two-way links, reciprocity and mutual benefit and this matter being a domestic affair." However, the Taiwan authorities have not yet made any response to this matter until now.
October 13, 2004
Regarding President Chen Shui-bian's National Day address, Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office Spokesperson Zhang Mingqing states at a press release that in Chen's address, he advocated that, "the Republic of China is Taiwan; Taiwan is the Republic of China." His speech was tainted with "Taiwanese independence" sentiments, which have again seriously provoked the peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. Chen's mention of relaxation is a fake action to cover up his real motive of "Taiwanese independence." As long as the Taiwanese authorities acknowledge the "1992 Consensus," cross-Strait dialogue and negotiations would be resumed.
October 14, 2004
During his visit to Germany, the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office Deputy Director Wang Zaixi states that the separatist activities engaged in by the "Taiwanese independence" separatist forces are a protruding issue that has presently influenced the development of cross-Strait relations. If the Chen administration makes an erroneous judgment on the situation, and makes a reckless move by creating an "independent Taiwan," there will be no other choice for the Mainland but to take the necessary measures in its determination to defend the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity and to thoroughly crush the separatist schemes of the "Taiwanese independence" forces.
October 19, 2004
During his inspection tour of Taiwanese businesses at the Fuzhou Economic and Technical Development Zone, Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office Director Chen Yunlin states that cross-Strait trade and economic exchanges are an important link between both sides of the Strait. We should further strengthen cross-Strait trade and economic cooperation, and create more favorable conditions for the development of the Taiwanese businessmen's investments in the motherland.
October 20, 2004
During an investigation tour at Fujian, Chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference Jia Qinglin states that to improve their efforts targeted at Taiwan, they need to expand their campaign to attract investments and talents from among Taiwanese compatriots and overseas Chinese, and invigorate exchanges, as well as ensure the protection of the legal interests of Taiwanese compatriots.
October 25, 2004
In a meeting with US Secretary of State Colin L. Powell, Mainland President Hu Jintao points out that the separatist activities waged by the "Taiwanese independence" forces are the root cause of cross-Strait tension and the greatest threat that endangers peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.
October 25, 2004
PRC Premier Wen Jiabao emphasizes in a meeting with US Secretary of State Colin L. Powell that they will fight for peaceful reunification using their utmost sincerity and greatest efforts. However, they will never allow Taiwan to be "separated" from the motherland. They will not compromise on issues that involve the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity. It is hoped that the US side would keep its promises and abide by the three Sino-US communiques and take more actions that are beneficial to the situation across the Taiwan Strait.
October 25, 2004
Mainland Foreign Minister Li Zaoxing states during a meeting with US Secretary of State Colin L. Powell that the Taiwan issue has always been the greatest factor that has all along affected the stable development of Sino-US relations. The Taiwan Strait at present faces a severe situation, rooted in the gradual increase in the intensity by which Chen Shui-bian's administration has carried out their "Taiwanese independence" separatist activities. It is hoped that the US side would realistically fulfill its related promises and avoid violating the "one China policy" and the three Sino-US communiques. This is crucially important in preserving peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and the development of Sino-US relations.
October 27, 2004
Mainland Taiwan Affairs Office Spokesperson Zhang Mingqing points out in a question-and-answer session of its regular press briefing that it is feasible for the cross-Strait "Three-Links" to be patterned after the model of Taiwan-Hong Kong transportation links. The cross-Strait "Three-Links" are an economic affair, and absolutely not a matter between two countries. With regard to the chartered flights during the Chinese Lunar New Year Holidays for Taiwanese businessmen, as long as the negotiations for the cross-Strait routes are treated as domestic affairs, we can then adopt certain measures for talks between civilian entities, between the airline industries, or between business companies. He also states that except for very few elements that hold fast to their "Taiwanese independence" line of thinking, the Mainland welcomes the majority of Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) members to visit the Mainland.
October 28, 2004
Chief of the PLA General Staff Liang Guanglie, emphasizes during his meeting with US Secretary of State Colin L. Powell in Washington DC that the Taiwan issue is the most important and most sensitive core issue in Sino-US relations, and involves the core interests of China. The key to maintaining a smooth development of relations between the armed forces of both China and the US lies in the proper handling of the Taiwan issue. The separatist activities waged by the "Taiwanese independence" advocates are the root of the tension in cross-Strait relations and are the greatest threat to the peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. It is hoped that the US side will realistically fulfill its related promises and avoid violating the "one China policy" and the three Sino-US communiques. This is crucially important in curbing the "Taiwanese independence" forces and in preserving peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and the development of Sino-US relations.
November 8, 2004
Chinese President Hu Jintao states during his telephone conversation with US President George W. Bush that as long as both China and the US firmly grasp the right direction of the development of mutual relations from beginning to end, and abide by the principles stated in the three Sino-US communiques, China-US relations will experience healthy and stable progress. China has commended the US several times for reiterating its firm position on the "one China" policy, observance of the three Sino-US communiques, and opposition against Taiwanese independence.
November 8, 2004
Jia Qinglin, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, states during his meeting with the "Cross-strait Agricultural Exchange Delegation" led by Hsu Hsin-liang, that they shall continue to carry out the basic guidelines of "peaceful reunification and one country, two systems" as well as the present-stage development of cross-strait relations, and the Eight-point Proposal for pushing on the peaceful reunification of the motherland. They are willing to fight for peaceful reunification with their utmost sincerity and efforts, but they will never tolerate Taiwanese independence, and will never allow any individual to split Taiwan away from China by any means.
November 8, 2004
Chinese State Council Vice Premier Hui Liangyu states during his meeting with the "Cross-strait Agricultural Exchange Delegation" led by Hsu Hsin-liang, that the Taiwanese people are compatriots, and that they are concerned about the various developments of agriculture in Taiwan. However, they are firmly opposed against any form of activity advocating Taiwanese independence. They welcome Taiwanese compatriots proceeding to the motherland to expand their businesses, and are willing to further strengthen cross-strait agricultural exchanges and cooperation and listen to the views and recommendations of friends from the agricultural sector in Taiwan, as well as to jointly pursue development and prosperity on the basis of reciprocity and mutual benefit.
November 8, 2004
The Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office Director Chen Yunlin states during his meeting with the "Cross-strait Agricultural Exchange Delegation" led by Hsu Hsin-liang that they have never sought to influence and intervene with cross-strait economic exchanges and cooperation by creating political divergence. The agricultural sectors on both sides of the Strait form a complementary relationship due to their respective strengths, and the prospects of cooperation are broad. They should reinforce exchanges and expand cooperation to jointly pursue development and create a win-win situation.
November 12, 2004
Chinese President Hu Jintao points out during his address to the Brazilian Parliament on "Hand in Hand in Creating New Prospects in China-Latin American Friendship" that the Taiwan issue is an internal affair of China. The Chinese Government and the Chinese people have the confidence, the determination, the wisdom, and the capability to ultimately realize the complete reunification of the motherland. They shall be firm in the basic guidelines of "peaceful reunification and one country, two systems" and will fight for the peaceful solution to the Taiwan issue with their utmost sincerity and efforts. However, they shall not tolerate Taiwanese independence, and will never allow any individual to separate Taiwan away from China by any means. The solution of the Taiwan issue and the realization of the great mission of reunification of the motherland are the common desire of the 1.3 billion Chinese people and the entire Chinese nation. They thank the Latin American people for their long-term support for this issue, and hope that the Latin American people will continue to spare no effort in supporting the just undertaking of the Chinese people.
November 14, 2004
Mainland Chinese President Hu Jintao states during a meeting with the overseas Chinese community in Brazil that the 23 million Taiwanese compatriots are all brothers and sisters, and there is nobody who is more eager to seek peaceful means to solve the Taiwan issue than us. China is willing to fight for peaceful reunification with utmost sincerity and efforts, but at the same time is firm in opposing against Taiwanese independence. China will never allow any individual to separate Taiwan away by any means.
November 14, 2004
In response to President Chen Shui-bian's mention of the basis of the 1992 meeting in Hong Kong" to resume cross-strait dialogues, the Director of the Mainland's Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait states that insistence in the "one China" principle has been the consistent stance of motherland China. The problem to be solved by cross-strait negotiations is a domestic affair of China. Therefore, cross-strait negotiations must be conducted on the foundation of the "one China principle."
November 15, 2004
The Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office Deputy Director Wang Zaixi states during an exclusive interview with Reuters that maintaining the national sovereignty and territorial integrity and the realization of the reunification of China constitute the core national interests of China, as well as the common will of the entire Chinese people. If the Taiwanese independence separatist forces vainly attempt to take advantage of the time during our nationwide efforts in developing our economy and preparing for the Olympics, to produce an incident that leads to Taiwanese independence and believe that we could only bear the bitter consequences, then they have gravely misjudged the circumstances. The Chinese Government and the Chinese people shall not tolerate Taiwanese independence and shall not allow any individual to separate Taiwan away from China by any means. They shall not spare any cost to defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity.
November 17, 2004
The Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office Spokesperson Li Weiyi states at a regular press briefing that if Chen Shui-bian acknowledges the fact of the "one China" and abandon his "one country on each side" proposal, both the SEF and the ARATS shall resume dialogues and negotiations immediately and both sides can discuss any problem they want. Otherwise, if Chen Shui-bian distorts the essence of the "1992 meeting in Hong Kong" and refuses to acknowledge that Taiwan is a part of China, it is a violation against the expectations of the compatriots on both sides of the Strait. At the same time, cross-strait routes shall not be handled as affairs "between two countries."
November 18, 2004
Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Zhang Qiyue states that the Chinese Government sternly demands the Vanuatu Government to strictly abide by the related principles stipulated in the communique signed on the establishment of diplomatic relations and to conscientiously fulfil its solemn promise to the Chinese Government and to the Chinese people with regard to the Taiwan issue.
November 19, 2004
Chinese President Hu Jintao points out during his meeting with Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong at the capital city of Santiago in Chile that the Taiwan issue involves China's core interest and must be carefully addressed. The feelings of the 1.3 billion Chinese people must not be harmed, and general cross-strait relations must not be destroyed. The sovereignty and the core interest of China must be respected; this is the general situation as well as a major principle.
November 20, 2004
Chinese President Hu Jintao points out at his meeting with US President George W. Bush during the APEC Chile meeting that the Taiwanese authorities are trying to use "constitutional reform" to legalize Taiwanese independence," and are trying to split Taiwan away from China. Maintaining national sovereignty and territorial integrity is China's core interest. The Chinese Government has consistenly insisted on the basic guidelines of "peaceful reunification and one country, two systems," and is willing to fight for a peaceful solution to the Taiwan issue and realize the complete reunification of the motherland with its utmost efforts. However, they shall not tolerate Taiwanese independence, and shall not allow any individual to separate Taiwan away from China by any means. As long as the Taiwan authorities acknowledge the "1992 consensus" that reflects a firm position on the "one China Principle," cross-strait dialogue and negotiations shall be immediately resumed.
November 25, 2004
Chinese Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing tells accompanying reporters that concerning the severity of the contemporary trend across the Taiwan Strait, Hu Jintao has repeatedly pointed out clearly during his trip to Latin America that Taiwanese independence will put an end to the tranquility across the Taiwan Strait. The Taiwan authorities are taking a risk in conducting separatist activities, which constitutes the greatest threat to the peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and of the Asia-Pacific region. This has demonstrated the firm determination of the Chinese Government and people to preserve the territorial integrity of the country. Concerning the fact that the country's leaders have reiterated their firm stance in the "one China" policy and their opposition against Taiwanese independence, the great cause of the reunification of the motherland and the guidelines of "peaceful reunification and one country, two systems" have won greater support.
November 25, 2004
Chinese State Councillor Tang Jiaxuan points out during an inspection tour in Jiangsu and Jiangxi that concerning the work on Taiwan, they shall thoroughly implement the guiding of "placing hopes in the Taiwanese people", make close contact, reinforce exchanges, and expand cooperation with the Taiwanese compatriots, for the pursuit of mutual development. Every region must actively take initiative in conducting exchanges with Taiwan, develop the common interests of the compatriots on both sides of the Strait, as well as deepen and intensify the emotional ties between them. Every level of the administration must actively express concern for the Taiwanese compatriots that are engaged in trade and investment, fact-finding tour or studies, visit to relatives and friends, and other forms of exchanges activities in the motherland, and earnestly protect all the rightful interests and security of the Taiwanese compatriots in accordance with the law. We need to take the initiative in doing anything that is conducive to the Taiwanese compatriots, the reunification of the motherland, and the great revival of the Chinese race.
November 28, 2004
The Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office Executive Deputy Director Li Bingcai reiterates while attending a Cross-strait Floriculture Fair at Zhangzhou, Fujian, that they shall continue to encourage and support the investment of Taiwanese compatriots in motherland China and to develop cross-strait economic cooperation. As in the past, they shall continue to render assistance to Taiwanese compatriots in solving the problems and difficulties encountered in the course of their investments in the Mainland and in enforcing the Taiwanese Compatriots Investment Protection Law and its enforcement rules. They shall protect the rightful interests of Taiwanese compatriots in accordance with the law under any circumstances.
November 28, 2004
Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao sums up the new developments on cooperation with ASEAN countries at the Eighth Conference of ASEAN-China Leaders, which includes a declaration of the Chairman of the ASEAN-China Foreign Ministers' Informal Meeting on the Taiwan issue, reiterating that they will continue to abide by the "one China" policy, which has reflected the ASEAN's sincerity in supporting the peaceful reunification of China.
December 1, 2004
China's Taiwan Affairs Office Deputy Director Wang Zaixi points out in Macao that they will never allow any individual to separate Taiwan away from China by any means and that Taiwanese independence will never be tolerated. They will continue to insist on the basic guidelines of the "peaceful reunification and one country, two systems," in the present-stage development of cross-strait relations. In the Eight-point Proposal that pushes ahead with the peaceful reunification of the Motherland, to strive for the prospect of peaceful reunification with their utmost sincerity and greatest efforts. He also urges that certain political conflicts be shelved and that cross-strait dialogues and negotiations be resumed on the foundation of the "one China" principle. As long as the Taiwanese authorities recognize the "1992 Consensus" that reflects a persistence in the "one China" principle, cross-strait dialogues and negotiations will resume immediately and any issue can be discussed. This position has never changed.
December 3, 2004
China's Vice Foreign Minister Dai Bingguo, in a meeting with US State Secretary Colin Powell in Washington, points out that preserving the national sovereignty and territorial integrity is the core interest of China and demands that the US to genuinely keep all its promises to China and refrain from providing any assistance that will give a loose rein to the Taiwanese independence forces, especially to stop selling modernized weapons to Taiwan. The US states that it understands the sensitivity of the Taiwan issue and reiterates that the US will abide to the "one China" policy and the three Sino-US communiques, and oppose Taiwanese independence, and any statement and action that unilaterally changes the status quo in Taiwan.
December 7, 2004
Attending a ceremony in commemoration of Wen Shiren at Huangyangchuan, Gulang County, in Gansu, China's Taiwan Affairs Office Director Chen Yunlin states that the authorities the Taiwanese society today are deliberately creating ethnic conflicts, by further misleading and instigating the Taiwanese people to view the motherland China as an enemy. They have forgotten their roots and their attempt to split the country shall never succeed.
December 7, 2004
He Shizhong, the Director of the Economic Bureau under China's Taiwan Affairs Office, states that as long as the cross-strait "three links" and the Lunar New Year charter flights are dealt with as internal affairs, everything will be easy to handle.
December 8, 2004
Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao and the leaders of the European Community hold their seventh meeting at Hague. The joint declaration at the end of the meeting contains the following: the European Community reiterates its implementation of the "one China" policy and hopes that the Taiwan issue will be peacefully solved through constructive dialogues. The Chinese side praises the European Community for adhering to its "one China" policy and reiterates its principles and position on the Taiwan issue.
December 13, 2004
In a meeting with Russian Defense Minister Sergey Ivanov, Central Military Commission Vice Chairman Guo Boxiong states that the current situation across the Strait is very complicated. The facts show that the separatist activities waged by "Taiwanese independence" forces are the greatest threat to peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. He also emphasizes that if there is any individual attempting to separate Taiwan away from China and to create disturbance, the People's Liberation Army will never sit idle. This is our consistent and unchanging principle and position.
December 15, 2004
China's Taiwan Affairs Office Spokesperson Li Weiyi states at a regular press briefing that the key to the development of cross-strait relations lies in the position to be taken by the Taiwanese authorities. If they return to the "one China" principle and abandon their Taiwanese independence statements and activities then both sides should be able to move toward a prosperous, peaceful, and stable development. We have always advocated for the completion of a comprehensive, direct, and two-way "three links" as soon as possible, to benefit our compatriots on both sides of the Strait. We oppose any individual attempting to split the country by any means, and the statements and actions of Taiwanese independence advocates attempting to separate Taiwan away from China. We welcome any individual and organization from Taiwan to visit the Mainland to conduct sufficient exchange of views on the development of cross-strait relations, on the promotion of the development of cross-strait relations, and on the facilitation of the peaceful reunification of the motherland. This has been our consistent policy.
December 17, 2004
The Standing Committee of China's 10th National People's Congress (NPC) convenes the 26th meeting of senior officials, where the Committee's Legislative work Commission Director Hu Kangsheng presents a report on the draft of the Anti-Separation Law. The first deliberation on the bill is expected to be conducted at the 13th session of the Standing Committee of the 10th NPC.
December 17, 2004
In a press briefing to explain the enactment of a draft bill on the Anti-Separation Law, Sha Zukang, the head of the PRC delegation to the European headquarters of the United Nations, convenes a press briefing to state that the objective of the aforementioned Law was to maintain the basic policies of peaceful reunification and "one country, two systems." To protect China's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and to oppose any independence forces advocating separatism in Taiwan. He also points out that the Taiwanese independence forces are the greatest obstacles in the way of the cross-strait relations development, and pose the greatest threat to peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and in the Asia-Pacific region.
December 18, 2004
Former Taiwan Affairs Office Deputy Director Tang Shubei states during a press interview that the decision of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress to review and deliberate on the draft of the Anti-Separation Law is entirely in keeping with the times. He further states that it is China's internal affair as to how it would like to solve the Taiwan issue. There is still no way of knowing the concrete details of the Law. Nevertheless, its basic spirit is to preserve national unity and territorial integrity, and that the greatest efforts shall be exerted to achieve peaceful reunification. However, the split of Taiwan away from China by any individual shall never be tolerated. It is thus imperative right now to institutionalize the established guidelines and policies.
December 21, 2004
Answering questions from reporters at a regular press briefing, China's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Liu Jianchao points out that preserving the peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and the Asia Pacific region is consistent with the joint interests of China and the international community. The activation of the legislative process by the National People's Congress on the Anti-Separation Law is to contain the separatist activities of the Taiwanese independence forces, which should be favorable to the preservation of peace, stability, and prosperity across the Taiwan Strait and in the Asia-Pacific region. The Chinese Government firmly insists on the basic guidelines of "peaceful reunification and one country, two systems" and is willing and determined to fight for the prospect of the peaceful solution of the Taiwan issue with its utmost sincerity and greatest efforts. However, we shall never tolerate Taiwanese independence and allow any force to split Taiwan away from China by any excuse or by any means. We are willing to exert our unremitting efforts together with all the nations in preserving peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and in the Asia-Pacific region. Moreover, any military contact by the US with the Taiwan authorities by any excuse or by any means violates the principles stipulated in the three Sino-US communiques and fosters the growth of separatist activities of Taiwanese independence forces, which will damage the peace and stability in the Taiwan area and Sino-US relations. We urge the US to keep its promises to China and stop all military contact with Taiwan and the sale of military weapons to Taiwan, to prevent harming the common interests of both China and the US.
December 27, 2004
The Information Office of China's State Council releases its 2004 White Paper on National Defense, which mentions that it is the sacred responsibility of China's armed forces to put an end to the Taiwanese independence forces' separation of the country. The Chinese Government continues to adhere to the guiding principles of the "peaceful reunification and one country, two systems" and the present-stage development of cross-strait relations, and the Eight-point Proposal that pushes ahead with the peacful reunification of the motherland. As long as the Taiwanese authorities accept the "one China" principle and stop all separatist activities waged by Taiwanese independence forces, both sides of the Strait can officially end hostilities and commence negotiations on matters including the establishment of a military confidence-building mechanism. The Chinese people are firmly against any form of separatist activity of Taiwanese independence forces, as well as against any form of foreign intervention. They are also firmly against the sale of military weapons to Taiwan by any country and the conduct of any form of military alliance with Taiwan. They shall never allow any individual to split Taiwan away from China by any means. If the Taiwanese authorities make any reckless move and dare to create any major incident leading to Taiwanese independence, the Chinese people and the armed forces shall not spare any cost in thoroughly crushing any separatist attempts by the Taiwanese independence forces.
December 29, 2004
Chairman Wu Bangguo of the Standing Committee of China's National People's Congress (NPC) points out at the closing of the 13th session of the 10th NPC Standing Committee that it is one of the three major historical responsibilities of the Party and the country to solve the Taiwan issue and to complete the mission of the reunification of the motherland. For a long time, it has not given up any effort in developing cross-strait relations and in promoting the peaceful reunification of the motherland with its utmost sincerity. It is absolutely imperative to enact an Anti-Separation Law to oppose and suppress the Taiwanese independence forces from splitting the country, to push ahead with the peaceful reunification of the motherland, to maintain peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, to preserve national sovereignty and territorial integrity, and to safeguard the fundamental interests of the Chinese nation. Adhering to the "one China" principle solving the Taiwan issue is an unshakable foundation; while "peaceful reunification and one country, two systems" serve as the basic guideline.
December 31, 2004
Chinese President Hu Jintao points out in his new year's congratulatory message that China will continue to adhere to the guiding principles of the "peaceful reunification and one country, two systems" and the present-stage of development in the cross-strait relations, to push on the Eight-point Proposal that promotes the peaceful reunification of the motherland, to encourage cross-strait personnel, economic, and cultural exchanges, and to strive for the prospect of peaceful reunification with its utmost sincerity and greatest efforts. It will also strive to resume cross-strait dialogue and negotiations on the foundation of the "one China" principle. However, it will never allow any individual to split Taiwan away from China by any means. It also repeatedly urges the entire Chinese nation, including the Taiwanese compatriots, to be united, to oppose and suppress the Taiwanese independence separatist forces and their activities, and to jointly work for the accomplishment of the great mission of the motherland's reunification as soon as possible.