January 1, 2009
During a New Year tea reception held by the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, mainland Chinese President Hu Jintao states that in the new year, mainland China will adhere to the guiding principle of "peaceful unification and one country, two systems" and the eight-point proposal on developing cross-strait relations and promoting peaceful unification of the motherland in the current phase. Mainland China will also firmly seize the theme of the peaceful development of cross-strait relations, advance cross-strait exchanges and cooperation, and constantly develop new prospects for cross-strait relations.
January 1, 2009
During a seminar for the 30th anniversary of the "Message to Compatriots in Taiwan," Wang Yi, director of the Taiwan Affairs Office of mainland Chinese State Council, states that mainland Chinese President Hu Jintao's speech at the ceremony commemorating the 30th anniversary of the mainland's "Message to Compatriots in Taiwan" is an essential document in guiding Taiwan-related work under the new circumstances. He notes that President Hu's speech proposed a series of new policies in politics, economy, culture, society, overseas exchanges as well as military security. It more closely links mainland China's Taiwan-related work with the overall national development strategy in the new era and new phase to build a prosperous society, enables the more effective implementation of Taiwan-related work, and more closely links the advancement of Taiwan-related work with the government's principal policies and guidelines. It also more closely links Taiwan-related work with the actual needs of cross-strait relations and the immediate interests of compatriots on both sides of the Strait. Thus, it embodies strategic thinking on the development of cross-strait relations, while also having real guiding significance for current Taiwan-related work.
January 2, 2009
In an interview with the China Press, mainland Chinese ambassador to the United States Zhou Wenzhong indicates that the Taiwan issue is an internal affair of mainland China and pertains to mainland China's sovereignty and territorial integrity. The mainland Chinese government adamantly opposes any external interference. This is mainland China's principle. Mainland China demands that the US continue to honor its pledge to strictly adhere to the "one China" policy, observe the three Sino-US joint communiques, oppose "Taiwan independence," oppose Taiwan's participation in international organizations open only to sovereign countries, properly handle sensitive issues involving Taiwan, and support the peaceful development of cross-strait relations.
January 4, 2009
The Fujian Province Administration for Industry and Commerce issues "Opinions on Further Supporting the Development of the Economic Zone on the West Coast of the Taiwan Strait." The "Opinions" state that support will be given to the Economic Zone on the West Coast of the Taiwan Strait to expand the trade cooperation between Fujian and Taiwan and the establishment of a market supervision mechanism for the interaction between Fujian and Taiwan and for the management and coordination of legal enforcement. The "Opinions" also indicate that the State Administration for Industry and Commerce will support Taiwanese enterprises and compatriots to invest and establish businesses in Fujian through various means. Based on the principles of equal priority and appropriate easing, active support will be given to Fujian to attract investment from Taiwanese businesses; ease the main qualification restrictions on investment in Fujian by investors of the Taiwan Area so that economic corporate organizations in the Taiwan Area, like economic organizations, may establish enterprises through joint venture, partnership or sole proprietorship investment.
January 7, 2009
At a regular press conference, the Taiwan Affairs Office of mainland Chinese State Council indicates that the two sides can engage in contacts and exchange on military issues at an appropriate time and discuss the issue of establishing a cross-strait military security mutual trust mechanism. Based on the "one China" principle, the two sides can negotiate on a formal end to the state of hostility across the Taiwan Strait, reach a peace agreement, and establish a framework for the peaceful development of cross-strait relations. Mainland China hopes that in the process of developing cross-strait relations in the future, the two sides can hold further negotiations and achieve clear progress this year on the issues of normalizing cross-strait economic relations and institutionalizing cross-strait economic cooperation. Regarding Taiwan's participation in the activities of international organizations, fair and reasonable arrangements can be made through pragmatic cross-strait negotiations under the premise of not creating "two Chinas" or "one China, one Taiwan."
January 8, 2009
The State Development and Reform Commission announces the "Outline of the Reform and Development Plans of the Pearl River Delta Region (2008~2020)." The outline addresses plans to strengthen economic and social cooperation between the Pearl River Delta area and the Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan areas. The plans will entrust Taiwanese-funded enterprises currently located in the Pearl River Delta area to further expand economic and trade cooperation with Taiwan and expand the scope of cooperation. They call for stronger cooperation with Taiwan in economic and trade, high and new technology, advanced manufacturing, modern farming, tourism, technological innovation, education, healthcare, social security and cultural fields. It also calls for stronger agricultural cooperation with the west side of the Taiwan Strait, as well as development of the Business Incubation Park for Taiwanese Farmers in Jinwan District, Zhuhai City and the Foshan Cross-Strait Agricultural Cooperation Pilot Zone.
January 8, 2009
During a meeting with US Deputy Secretary of State John Negroponte, Wang Yi, director of the Taiwan Affairs Office of mainland Chinese State Council, states that mainland Chinese President Hu Jintao's six-point proposition is based on adherence to the existing guiding principles on Taiwan. It specifies the future development course of cross-strait relations, with three notable characteristics: 1) It clearly presents major policy positions on all aspects concerning cross-strait relations; 2) It forms the basic framework and substantive significance for peaceful development of cross-strait relations; and 3) To the full extent possible, it considers the reasonable wishes and requests of Taiwan compatriots and amply demonstrates the sincerity and goodwill of the Mainland side.
January 10, 2009
During the second session of the 11th National People's Congress, Fujian Provincial Governor Huang Xiaojing states that, in keeping with the new situation brought about by the basic realization of the "Three Links," Fujian will continue in 2009 to play a leading and trial role in steadily advancing exchanges and cooperation between Fujian and Taiwan in the areas of expanding the effects of the "Three Links," upgrading the level of economic and trade cooperation between Fujian and Taiwan, and promoting two-way cultural exchanges.
January 16, 2009
In an exclusive interview with the People's Daily, Wang Yi, director of the Taiwan Affairs Office of mainland Chinese State Council, states that in 2008, a favorable turning point was achieved in cross-strait relations, as demonstrated in the following aspects: 1) The situation in Taiwan underwent active changes, thwarting the various schemes of "Taiwan independence" separatist forces; 2) The two sides took initial steps to form benign interactions by appropriately handling a series of issues in the spirit of "building mutual trust, shelving controversies, finding commonalities despite differences, and creating together a win-win solution"; 3) Cross-strait negotiations achieved significant results; 4) The direct "Three Links" were fundamentally accomplished; and 5) Cross-strait contacts advanced to a new level with the smooth launch of travel by Mainland residents to Taiwan and new breakthroughs in realizing cross-strait personnel contacts.
January 19, 2009
During a Lunar New Year tea reception held by the Central Committee of the Revolutionary Committee of the Chinese Kuomintang, Zheng Lizhong, executive deputy director of the Taiwan Affairs Office of mainland Chinese State Council, states that mainland China has begun a series of new work projects based on Hu Jintao's guiding principle of "building mutual trust, shelving controversies, finding commonalities despite differences, and creating together a win-win solution." The most prominent of these projects are the resumption of cross-strait negotiations and the signing of six agreements, which have produced an immense impetus for the peaceful development of cross-strait relations.
January 20, 2009
During a press conference on the white paper entitled "China's National Defense in 2008," mainland Chinese Ministry of Defense Spokesperson Hu Changming states that the Taiwan issue pertains to the fundamental interests of the people and the core interests of the country. The sacred duty of the People's Liberation Army is to achieve the complete unification of the motherland and maintain national sovereignty, security and territorial integrity. It is also a major duty constitutionally entrusted to the military. "Our limited military deployment fully accords with national security interests and the need to uphold the fundamental interests of the people and the core interests of the country. The timing of any adjustments will be decided based on changing developments."
January 21, 2009
At a regular press conference, the Taiwan Affairs Office of mainland Chinese State Council indicates that the negotiations between the SEF and the ARATS this year should still center on the urgent need to develop cross-strait relations, beginning with economic issues that the people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait are most concerned about. Mainland China hopes that negotiations can result in the signing of agreements to promote the real normalization of cross-strait economic relations and peaceful development of cross-strait relations.
January 23, 2009
Wang Yi, director of the Taiwan Work Office of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, issues a Lunar New Year message entitled "Compatriots on both sides of the Strait Jointly Compose a New Chapter of Peaceful Development." He expresses the hope that the two sides will strengthen goodwill communication, steadily build consensus, and further promote the improvement and development of cross-strait relations. He also hopes that cross-strait negotiations can bear new fruits and, based on the fundamental accomplishment of the direct "Three Links," deepen industrial cooperation, begin financial cooperation, further normalize cross-strait economic relations and institutionalize cooperation. He also expresses the hope to strengthen contacts between compatriots on both sides of the Strait, broadly develop large-scale exchanges in various sectors of society, advance understanding, deepen feelings, and forge together a powerful force to jointly promote peaceful development of cross-strait relations.
February 6, 2009
During a meeting on Taiwan work, Jia Qinglin, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, emphasizes the important task of current and future Taiwan-related work. Jia indicates that mainland China must make solid progress on cross-strait relations and negotiations by proceeding in an orderly and gradual manner, focusing first on easy issues and later on difficult issues, and first on economic issues and later on political issues. Mainland China must consolidate cross-strait joint opposition to "Taiwan independence" and adhere to the political foundation of the "1992 Consensus." Mainland China must vigorously strengthen cross-strait economic exchanges and cooperation, fully implement direct cross-strait "Three Links," endeavor to normalize cross-strait economic relations and institutionalize economic cooperation. It must vigorously promote comprehensive cross-strait exchanges, strongly promote cultural and educational exchanges, and steadily expand the field of exchanges so that even more Taiwanese people may participate in cross-strait exchanges. It must promote greater exchanges and cooperation across the Strait and promote the greater development of cross-strait relations.
February 11, 2009
At a press conference, the Taiwan Affairs Office expresses hope that Taiwan can take practical steps to create an environment and conditions conducive to cross-strait cooperation on fighting crime. Regarding Taiwan's participation in the activities of international organizations, fair and reasonable arrangements can be made through pragmatic cross-strait negotiations, under the premise of not creating "two Chinas" or "one China, one Taiwan." At the same time, in order to promptly normalize cross-strait economic relations and institutionalize economic cooperation, the two sides can sign a comprehensive economic cooperation agreement to establish an economic cooperation mechanism tailored to the unique characteristics in the Taiwan Strait.
February 11, 2009
Xiamen Mayor Liu Cigui expresses interest in strengthening joint economic development between Xiamen and Taiwan in "10 linkage" areas of industrial cooperation, including: the advanced manufacturing industry, software industry, financial and insurance industry, service outsourcing industry, tourism industry, shipping industry, cultural and creative industries, commercial and trade industry, postal and communications industry, and agricultural seed processing industry.
February 14, 2009
The Taiwan Work Office of the Central Committee of the CPC and the Taiwan Affairs Office of mainland China's State Council begin study of the "practice of the scientific concept of development." They also cite mainland Chinese President Hu Jintao's speech at a symposium commemorating the 30th anniversary of the "Message to Compatriots in Taiwan" as an example of applying a scientific concept of development to guide Taiwan-related work. In carrying out Taiwan work, mainland China will adhere to the guiding principle of putting people first and placing full hope on the Taiwan people, unite with Taiwan compatriots in the broadest sense, and form a powerful force for compatriots on both sides of the Strait to jointly promote the peaceful development of cross-strait relations. Furthermore, according to a scientific concept of development, mainland China will advance in an orderly and gradual manner, focusing first on easier issues and then on difficult issues and first on economic issues and later on political issues. It will duly carry out negotiations with Taiwan and actively and steadily advance cross-strait negotiations. At the same time, mainland China will continue, according to the demands of the scientific concept of development, to firmly seize the theme of the peaceful development in cross-strait relations, seize opportunities, stress key points, and constantly open up new prospects for peaceful development of cross-strait relations.
February 25, 2009
The Taiwan Affairs Office indicates at a press conference that the related competent authorities in the Mainland have granted special approval for China Travel Service (Hong Kong) Ltd. to arrange for 10,000 Amway operation and sales personnel to travel to Taiwan by cruise ship. It also noted that the specific content and form of the comprehensive economic cooperation agreement (CECA) need to be negotiated between the two sides. It is most important to maximize complementary strengths and mutual benefits between the two sides to jointly develop the cross-strait economy. The negotiations between the SEF and the ARATS in the first half of this year should basically address the issues of regular cross-strait flights, financial cooperation and joint crackdowns on crime. Issues related to the cross-strait CECA, such as how and what to negotiate and the content and specifics of negotiations, must be decided through negotiations between the SEF and the ARATS.
February 25, 2009
China National Tourism Administration Director Shao Qiwei leads a 462-member delegation to Taiwan, joined by the leaders of various provincial, city, and autonomous region travel administrations and the heads of major travel agencies in mainland China.
February 26, 2009
During a meeting with Taiwan representatives attending the "Fifth Cross-Strait Forum on the Information Industry Technical Standards," Taiwan Affairs Office Deputy Director Zheng Lizhong states that mainland China will exert full efforts to develope cross-strait economic cooperation, continue to welcome Taiwan enterprises to develop business operations in the Mainland, encourage Mainland enterprises to invest in Taiwan, normalize cross-strait economic relations and institutionalize cooperation, negotiate the signing of a cross-strait comprehensive economic cooperation agreement and establish an economic cooperation mechanism tailored to the unique characteristics in the Taiwan Strait so as to maximize complementary strengths and mutual benefits between the two sides.
February 28, 2009
In an online exchange with internet users, Premier Wen Jiabao states that, through negotiations, mainland China will further study a mechanism for cross-strait economic exchanges and cooperation. On the basis of the "1992 Consensus," the SEF and the ARATS have resumed negotiations and officially implemented the "Three Links," symbolizing a new phase in the peaceful development of cross-strait relations.
March 5, 2009
The Zhangzhou Intermediate People's Court in Fujian Province establishes mainland China's first "Court for Hearing Taiwan-related Cases." The scope of cases to be heard by the court include commercial cases of first or second instance, criminal cases, and administrative cases in which one or both litigants are residents or legal persons of the Taiwan Area or Taiwanese-funded enterprises.
March 5, 2009
In a "government report on Taiwan-related work" presented at the National People's Congress, Premier Wen Jiabao states that mainland China will continue to comprehensively strengthen cross-strait economic cooperation, actively promote cross-strait financial cooperation, strengthen two-way cross-strait investment and industrial cooperation, and expand and deepen agricultural cooperation. It will also support economic development on the west side of the Taiwan Strait and other areas where Taiwanese investment is concentrated. Mainland China will accelerate the normalization of cross-strait economic relations, promote the signing of a comprehensive economic cooperation agreement (CECA), and gradually establish an economic cooperation mechanism with cross-strait characteristics. It will strengthen cross-strait personnel exchanges, broaden exchanges with all sectors of society, vigorously promote Chinese culture, and consolidate cross-strait cultural bonds. Premier Wen also emphasizes that, based on the "one China" principle, mainland China will vigorously strengthen mutual political trust between the two sides. On this basis, the Mainland is willing, through negotiations, to make fair and reasonable arrangements on the matter of Taiwan's participation in the activities of the international organizations, as well as to discuss cross-strait political and military issues to end the state of hostility between the two sides and create conditions for reaching a peace agreement.
March 5, 2009
During a press interview, Wang Yi, director of the Taiwan Work Office of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China and the Taiwan Affairs Office of mainland China's State Council, emphasizes that the Mainland will maintain an open attitude toward the issue of the specific names used for agreements, whether it is a cross-strait comprehensive economic cooperation agreement (CECA) or a cross-strait Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA). He also stated that, "Each side of the Taiwan Strait has its unique characteristics. The two sides should discuss an agreement that is compatible with these characteristics and can promote joint economic development and coprosperity across the Strait. Various models can be referred to with regard to the specific content and form of the agreement. Anything can be considered so long as it is conducive to the peaceful development of cross-strait relations."
March 8, 2009
Xiamen will strengthen "10 linkages" with Taiwan industries, including: advanced manufacturing, the software industry, financial and insurance industry, outsourcing services, tourism industry, shipping industry, cultural and creative industries, commercial and trade industries, postal and telecommunication services, and agricultural seeds and agricultural products.
March 8, 2009
Over the next five years, Fujian plans to attract 1,000 retired IT specialists from Taiwan to help with the development of key technology and promote the development of high-level, creative and innovative industries.
March 11, 2009
During an interview with Takungpao editor-in-chief Jia Xiping, Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi states that the Mainland will never change its guiding principle of "placing hopes on the Taiwan people." By strengthening exchanges and contact between the people on both sides, it will be possible to deepen mutual understanding, advance mutual trust, broaden consensus, and unite with even more compatriots on both sides of the Strait to jointly work for the peaceful development of cross-strait relations and to strive for the revival of the Chinese nation. Mainland China welcomes the great number of Taiwanese compatriots to visit the Mainland for exchanges.
March 11, 2009
During a television interview, Wang Yi , director of the Taiwan Work Office of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China and the Taiwan Affairs Office, states that in advancing cross-strait relations, the two sides need to follow the fundamental thinking of dealing with economic issues first and political issues later, and easy issues first and difficult issues later. They can first develop academic exchanges between experts and scholars on such issues as political relations and military security mutual trust mechanisms before national unification. They can also initiate contact on cross-strait military issues through exchanges between retired military personnel on the two sides of the Taiwan Strait. Regarding cross-strait relations in 2009, Wang Yi expresses three major expectations: 1) to strengthen and deepen cross-strait economic cooperation; 2) to vigorously develop cross-strait cultural and educational exchanges; and 3) to develop large-scale exchanges between various sectors of the two sides, especially exchanges between the people on a grassroots level.
March 12, 2009
The second session of the 11th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference passes a political resolution stating the need to earnestly study the spirit of President Hu Jintao's major speech delivered at a symposium commemorating the 30th anniversary of the publication of the "Message to Compatriots in Taiwan." Mainland China must also continue to firmly adhere to the principal policies and guidelines on developing cross-strait relations and promoting the peaceful unification of the motherland; firmly grasp the theme of the peaceful development of cross-strait relations; actively establish a framework for peaceful development of cross-strait relations; continue to comprehensively strengthen cross-strait economic cooperation; broaden cross-strait personnel contacts and cultural exchange; and work hard to open up new prospects for peaceful development of cross-strait relations.
March 25, 2009
The Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) announces at a press conference that the Fujian provincial government, TAO and other agencies will hold the first "Straits Forum" from May 15 to 22, 2009, in Xiamen, Fuzhou, Quanzhou, and Putian, Fujian Province. The theme of the forum will be "Broadening Civilian Exchanges, Strengthening Cross-Strait Cooperation, and Promoting Joint Development." Regarding the establishment of offices in the Mainland by private industry groups in Taiwan, the TAO said that such matters should be handled according to the regulations in the Mainland and that such operations can be developed after approval.
March 26, 2009
Mainland China's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Qin Gang states at a regular press conference that the two sides of the Taiwan Strait are fully able to resolve the issue of Taiwan's participation in the World Health Assembly (WHA). On the premise of not creating "two Chinas" or "one China, one Taiwan," fair and reasonable arrangements can be made through pragmatic cross-strait negotiations.
March 28, 2009
Wang Yang, secretary of the CPC Guangdong Provincial Committee, states at a conference on Taiwan Work in Guangdong that Guangdong must develop its advantages, stress key points, study and thoroughly implement Taiwan-related work throughout the province under the new situation, stabilize and develop Taiwanese-funded enterprises, accelerate the comprehensive development of "Three Links" between Guangdong and Taiwan, strengthen cultural exchanges between Guangdong and Taiwan, fully realize the local advantages of Guangdong in Taiwan-related work, thoroughly implement the "Outline of the Plan for the Reform and Development of the Pearl River Delta," and work hard to open up new prospects for Taiwan-related work in Guangdong.
March 28 to April 1, 2009
The Second World Buddhist Forum opens in Wuxi, Jiangsu. The forum closed in Taipei on April 1. This is the first private, large-scale international religious forum to be jointly held between the two sides since the First World Buddhist Forum was held in Danshan and Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province in 2006.
April 6, 2009
Fujian Province proposes 25 specific measures in four areas to further attract Taiwanese investment, including: advancing work related to financing for Taiwanese-funded enterprises, promoting the transformation and upgrading of Taiwanese-funded enterprises, supporting technological transformation and industrial development, establishing liaison mechanisms, and protecting the rights and interests of Taiwanese businesspeople.
April 8, 2009
The 13th China Xiamen Machinery and Electronics Exhibition (CXMEE) is held in Xiamen from April 8 to 11.
April 9, 2009
Twelve vocational colleges in Fujian Province begin cooperative operations with colleges and universities in Taiwan under a program with a tentative period of three years. Each participating school will recruit 300 students. Courses will adopt an "assorted" educational model and be jointly designed by the cooperating schools. Faculty from both the Mainland and Taiwan will teach the programs.
April 9, 2009
During a meeting with a visiting mission from the United Daily News, Jia Qinglin, Chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, expresses hope that the two sides can continue to adhere to the spirit of "building mutual trust, shelving controversies, seeking common ground, and jointly creating a win-win situation." He also encouraged the two sides to advance cross-strait consultations and negotiations in an orderly and gradual manner by addressing the easy issues first and difficult issues later, and economic issues first and political issues later.
April 15, 2009
During a press conference, the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council states that it has always taken an active approach to the signing of a cross-strait comprehensive economic agreement and the establishment of an economic cooperation mechanism with cross-strait characteristics. If the Taiwan side wishes to hold an initial exchange of views on this issue through the channel between the SEF and the ARATS, it will also take an open attitude. Cross-strait military exchange is a matter between the two sides. Experts and scholars on the two sides can first hold academic exchanges on the issue of establishing a military security mutual trust mechanism. Moreover, with regard to the issue of contact between cross-strait military personnel, this can start with exchanges between retired military servicemen on the two sides.
April 16, 2009
During a meeting with visiting members of the National Committee on American Foreign Policy, Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) Director Wang Yi states that mainland China will continue to constantly open up new prospects for the peaceful development of cross-strait relations in an orderly and gradual manner by addressing easy issues first and difficult issues later, based on the principles of "building mutual trust, laying aside disputes, seeking consensus and shelving differences, and creating a win-win situation," as proposed by President Hu Jintao.
April 17, 2009
During a meeting with the Taiwan delegation to the Boao Forum, led by Fredrick F. Chien, Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) Director Wang Yi states that the development of cross-strait relations in 2009 will be based on the principle of addressing the easy issues first and difficult issues later and advancing in an orderly and gradual manner. Through negotiations between the SEF and the ARATS, the two sides should promptly normalize cross-strait economic cooperation and implement systems for cross-strait economic relations. At the same time, mainland China is also willing to discuss mechanisms for cross-strait economic cooperation. If Taiwan wishes to exchange views on the Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA) at the third Chiang-Chen Talks, the Mainland side is willing to hold initial discussions to start cross-strait talks on economic cooperation. Mainland China hopes that the two sides can develop ties not only in the economic sphere, but also in educational, cultural and other fields.
April 18, 2009
During a meeting with the Taiwan delegation to the Boao Forum, led by Fredrick F. Chien, mainland Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao states that the Mainland side will devote efforts in the following five aspects: 1) encouraging Mainland enterprises to invest in Taiwan; 2) expanding purchases of Taiwan products; 3) encouraging Taiwanese enterprises to expand in the Mainland market; 4) expanding Mainland tourism travel to Taiwan; and 5) holding negotiations on the establishment of an economic cooperation mechanism that can meet cross-strait economic development needs and has cross-strait characteristics. Mainland China hopes that Taiwan can provide conditions to facilitate Mainland investment in Taiwan and open its market to Mainland imports. He also emphasizes that mainland China will continue to advance cross-strait negotiations in the spirit of "building mutual trust, shelving controversies, seeking common ground, and jointly creating a win-win situation" and under the principle of addressing economic issues first and political issues later and easy issues first and difficult issues later in an orderly and gradual manner. Under the premise of adhering to the "one China" principle, the two sides can also pragmatically discuss and resolve political and military issues.
April 18, 2009
Fujian Vice-Governor Zhang Zhinan states that Fujian will adopt four major measures to advance Fujian-Taiwan exchanges and cooperation. The measures will include: granting national treatment to Taiwanese business investment in regard to shareholding ratios; organizing customer sources, developing product sources, and expanding the effects of the "Three Links"; encouraging Taiwan's tourism industry to introduce tours to the Mainland via the "Mini-Three-Links" with transit stops in Fujian; and organizing the Cross-Straits Fair for Economy and Trade and other major trade events joined by Taiwanese businesspeople to promote substantive cross-strait cooperation.
April 20, 2009
In a speech at the "2009 Henan-Taiwan Economic and Trade Cooperation Fair," Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) Deputy Director Sun Yafu states that mainland China will place emphasis on carrying out work in the following six areas: "supporting the development of Taiwan-funded enterprises in the Mainland, advancing cross-strait financial cooperation, promoting two-way cross-strait investment and industrial cooperation, expanding direct cross-strait air transport links, resolving issues pertaining to the order of cross-strait economic exchanges and protection of the rights and interests of compatriots on both sides of the Taiwan Strait, and promoting negotiations on establishing an economic cooperation mechanism with cross-strait characteristics."
April 22, 2009
The Fujian Provincial Government formulates "Opinions of the People's Government of Fujian Province on Supporting the Development of Taiwan-funded Enterprises" to promote the transformation and upgrading of Taiwan-funded enterprises and support the public listing of Taiwan-funded enterprises in the Mainland. Taiwanese enterprises applying for public listings can also enjoy policy support at different government levels in Fujian.
April 26, 2009
During a meeting in Nanjing with an SEF delegation led by Chairman Chiang Pin-kung, Wang Yi, director of the Taiwan Work Office of the Central Committee of the Chinese Party of China, states that cross-strait relations should be advanced by addressing easy issues first and difficult issues later and economic issues first and political issues later. The promotion of cross-strait relations should "place economic issues first and gradually develop comprehensively; and place emphasis on mutual trust to gradually resolve difficult issues." Economic cooperation is the priority direction and key work in the current and future phases. Mainland China hopes that on the basis of normalized cross-strait economic contacts, the two sides can promptly advance cross-strait economic relations through institutionalized mechanisms, including the signing of a cross-strait economic cooperation agreement. At the same time, the two sides should seize the opportunity to strengthen cultural, educational, scientific and youth exchanges so as to constantly build momentum for the development of cross-strait relations. Even more important for cross-strait relations is to build mutual trust on which to oppose "Taiwan independence" and adhere to the "1992 Consensus." In this way the two sides should continue to strengthen cooperation and jointly overcome hurdles.
April 28, 2009
Mainland China's Ministry of Commerce (MOC) formulates management regulations to promptly encourage Mainland enterprises to invest and establish offices in Taiwan. The regulations will officially come into force on May 1 this year. In accordance with the measures and other related stipulations, the MOC will promote the early realization of direct, two-way cross-strait investment. At the same time, the MOC will actively encourage and support qualified Mainland enterprises to make inspection visits to Taiwan to understand the investment environment and seek out opportunities for cooperation.
April 29, 2009
The Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) of mainland China's State Council announces at a press conference that the theme of the Cross-Strait Forum is "Expanding Private Exchange, Strengthening Cross-strait Cooperation, and Promoting Joint Development." The forum provides a major platform for private exchanges between the two sides, with a broad-based and social orientation. Persons from all sectors on both sides of the Taiwan Strait are invited to participate in the forum, including members of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP). The TAO also indicates that the establishment of cross-strait mutual military trust mechanism is a matter between the two sides, and the timing of such development of course will depend on when conditions are ripe.
April 30, 2009
The World Health Organization (WHO) sends a letter inviting Taiwan to participate in this year's World Health Assembly (WHA) as an observer. Responding to a question on this issue, a spokesperson of the State Council's Taiwan Affairs Office indicates that on December 31 last year, mainland Chinese President Hu Jintao stated at a symposium commemorating the 30th anniversary of the "Message to Compatriots in Taiwan" that rational arrangements can be made through pragmatic cross-strait consultations on the issue of Taiwan's participation in the activities of international organizations, under the premise of not creating "two Chinas" or "one China, one Taiwan." Since last year, the two sides have resolved the issue of Taiwan's participation in the WHA based on the spirit of "building mutual trust, shelving controversies, seeking common ground, and jointly creating a win-win situation."
May 3, 2009
The Fujian Provincial Department of Education announces the "2009 Implementation Rules on Student Recruitment Work for Regular Higher Education Institutions in Fujian Province." Under the Implementation Rules, students from Taiwan taking higher education entrance exams in Fujian can enjoy 20 bonus marks for school enrollment based on competitive selection.
May 5, 2009
Mainland China's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Ma Zhaoxu states at a regular press conference that Taiwan is an inalienable part of the mainland Chinese territory. Any attempts to fabricate the "uncertainty of Taiwan's status" are in defiance of the core interests of mainland China, and are absolutely unacceptable to the mainland Chinese government and people.
May 5, 2009
Mainland China's State Council approves the "Opinions on Supporting Fujian Province's Accelerated Development of the Economic Zone on the West Coast of the Taiwan Strait." The Opinions indicate that Fujian Province is vigorously promoting the development of the Economic Zone on the West Coast of the Taiwan Strait. In order to further develop Fujian's competitive advantages, Fujian is allowed to carry out an experimental policy to accelerate the development of the economic zone. This economic zone is an experimental area for exchanges and cooperation between people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait. The government will support Fujian Province in accelerating the development of the zone, with emphasis on completing work in seven areas.
May 7, 2009
Hunan will soon introduce the "Policies and Measures on Hunan Provincial People's Government Supporting Taiwan-funded Enterprises." Hunan will provide comprehensive support to Taiwan-funded enterprises in the Mainland, including guarantee of land use as well as financial and tax preferential policies.
May 8, 2009
While attending "Taiwan Week" in Wuhan, Hubei Province, Wang Yi, director of the Taiwan Work Office of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, states that mainland China adopts an active and open attitude toward the Taiwan side's proposal to discuss the signing of a cross-strait Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA). He states that cross-strait relations need to be fully developed. Mainland China will strengthen cross-strait cultural and educational exchanges and cooperation and constantly enrich and expand the significance of cross-strait contacts in the hope of constantly expanding and deepening greater exchanges and greater integration of the people on both sides.
May 8, 2009
During an inspection visit to Fujian Province, Premier Wen Jiabao states that efforts must be made to build a platform for cross-strait exchanges in order to accelerate the development of the Economic Zone on the West Coast of the Taiwan Strait. In order to attract Taiwanese investment to the Mainland, mainland China will continue to adhere to the principle of "equal priority and appropriate opening." It will establish an area for close cross-strait economic and trade cooperation, establish a foundation for cross-strait cultural exchanges, establish a comprehensive hub for direct cross-strait contact, and promote cross-strait exchanges and cooperation in broader fields, on a bigger scale and at a higher level.
May 10, 2009
Fujian Province officially issues the "Notice on Attracting Full-time Taiwan Students with Diplomas Issued by Regular Higher Education Institutions in the Hinterland (the Motherland Mainland) to Fujian for Employment in Related Work." According to the Notice, Taiwan students working in Fujian Province will be accorded the same treatment as graduates of Mainland regular higher education institutions in terms of wages and benefits, social insurance, and children's education.
May 13, 2009
At a regular press conference, the Taiwan Affairs Office of mainland China's State Council indicates that the Supreme People's Court announced the "Supplementary Provisions on Recognition by People's Courts of Civil Judgments Rendered by Taiwan Courts." The Supplementary Provisions clearly stipulate that civil judgments rendered by related courts in the Taiwan Area, and which are accepted by People's Courts, will have the same effect as effective verdicts of People's Courts. The main theme of the upcoming "Cross-Strait Forum" is "Expanding Civilian Exchanges, Strengthening Cross-strait Cooperation, and Promoting Joint Development." Regarding Taiwan's proposal to sign a cross-strait Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA), mainland China adopts an active and open stance on the issue. Mainland China's basic attitude on economic and political issues is to "put the economy first, and gradually promote full development; and place emphasis on mutual trust to gradually overcome difficulties."
May 16, 2009
In an address at the first "Cross-Strait Forum," Jia Qinglin, chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, states that the main theme of the forum is "Expanding Civilian Exchanges, Strengthening Cross-strait Cooperation, and Promoting Joint Development." The forum highlights exchanges and interaction, equal participation, affinity and warmth, with an emphasis on promoting civilian exchanges between the two sides, with a broad-based and social orientation. Everyone can equally get along and have friendly exchanges, irrespective of political party or boundaries, so long as they approve of strengthening cross-strait exchanges and cooperation. Jia expresses hope that the Cross-Strait Forum can steadily become more attractive and influential. Mainland China will also work hard to turn the forum into a well-known cross-strait exchange brand to attract participation by the great number of Taiwanese compatriots.
May 17, 2009
Mainland China's Ministry of Commerce and Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council announce the "Notice on Enterprises in Mainland China Investing in the Taiwan Area or Related Issues for Establishing Non-business Entity." The Notice indicates that mainland China will encourage and support Mainland enterprises to invest in or establish non-business entity in Taiwan. Such enterprises should earnestly understand and abide by the local laws and regulations, respect the local customs, pay attention to environmental protection, and fulfill their social responsibilities.
May 17, 2009
During the first Cross-Strait Forum, Wang Yi, director of the Taiwan Affairs Office of mainland China's State Council, announces eight specific plans for Taiwan, including: 1) encouraging Mainland enterprises to invest in Taiwan; 2) expanding purchases of Taiwan products; 3) encouraging and supporting conditional expansion of Taiwanese-funded enterprises in the Mainland market; 4) increasing Mainland tourism travel to Taiwan; 5) promoting negotiations on establishing cross-strait economic cooperation mechanisms; 6) further opening professional and technical personnel qualification examinations to Taiwan residents; 7) strengthening the development of cross-strait agricultural cooperation platforms; and 8) permitting Taiwan law offices to establish branch offices in Fuzhou and Xiamen as trial areas.
May 22, 2009
The Bureau of Shanghai World Expo Coordination announces that it has formally invited the Taipei World Trade Center to participate in the 2010 Shanghai World Expo.
May 25, 2009
Fujian announces the implementation of the "Statute on Promotion of Agricultural Cooperation between Fujian and Taiwan." The Statute stipulates that if Taiwanese people investing in Fujian-Taiwan agricultural cooperation cases need to use land for which operation is contracted to a rural household, the land contract operation right for the rural land may be obtained through a circulation method according to law and based on the principle of voluntary payment. If the use of other rural collective land is needed, contract operation rights for barren hill or beach land may be acquired through tender, auction, open negotiation or other methods. If the use of sea areas is required for a Fujian-Taiwan agricultural cooperation case, an application may be submitted for sea area right of use.
May 26, 2009
During a meeting with Kuomintang (KMT) Chairman Wu Poh-hsiung, mainland Chinese President Hu Jintao states six suggestions, including a suggestion on intensifying cross-strait political mutual trust. Hu says that the two sides need to gradually solve some difficult political issues, and that consolidating and promoting political mutual trust was especially important. Sticking to the principle that the Mainland and Taiwan belong to one China is the key point. Both sides should push forward the preparation work for signing agreements and seek to begin the talks in the second half of this year. The two sides should also promote the end of cross-strait hostilities and reach a peace agreement. The two sides could conduct pragmatic discussion on issues concerning political relations and the establishment of a cross-strait mechanism of mutual trust on military security under the circumstances that the country has not been reunified. Cross-strait negotiations should be conducted step by step and with a proper pace by putting economic and simple issues first and gradually moving on to tackle political and difficult problems. The two sides, however, should be prepared and create conditions for solving these problems." The two sides could start with contacts in "initial form" and accumulate experience to gradually tackle difficult issues.
May 27, 2009
During a press conference, the Taiwan Affairs Office of mainland China's State Council indicates that mainland China welcomes people in all walks of life in Taiwan-including members of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP)-to visit the Mainland in appropriate capacities for exchanges as long as they approve of peacefully developing cross-strait relations. Mainland China will actively support the Economic Zone on the West Coast of the Taiwan Strait to adopt a more flexible and open policy on exchanges and cooperation with Taiwan so that the said Economic Zone can serve as a pioneer experiment to gain experience. It will also play a more active role in promoting the peaceful development of cross-strait relations. As to allowing mainlanders to visit Taiwan individually for travel, including further reduction of the minimum tour group size, the related agencies on both sides will hold talks and negotiations at an appropriate time based on circumstances and then make arrangements when the time is right.
May 28, 2009
While attending the first "Chongqing-Taiwan Week," Wang Yi, director of the Taiwan Work Office of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, states that mainland China is now intensifying studies on the establishment of an economic cooperation mechanism that meets the needs of cross-strait economic development and embodies cross-strait characteristics. Mainland China will seek to begin talks on the cross-strait Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA) in the second half of the year. It also encourages and supports qualified Mainland enterprises to make inspection visits to Taiwan to seek out investment opportunities and develop cooperation ties.
June 1, 2009
During a meeting with a visiting delegation led by Kuomintang (KMT) Chairman Wu Poh-hsiung, mainland Chinese State Council's Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi states that both sides have always adhered to the idea of strengthening mutual trust and creating together a win-win solution. This is the basic experience both sides have shared in promoting the development of cross-strait relations. He states that consolidating and advancing political mutual trust between the two sides is especially important to the future prospects of cross-strait relations. This is aimed at continually strengthening and deepening mutual trust by preserving a common political foundation of opposing "Taiwan independence" and adhering to the "1992 Consensus." Only by continuing to consolidate and deepen mutual trust can the two sides shelve controversies, find commonalities despite differences, resolve difficulties and constantly open up new prospects for the peaceful development of cross-strait relations.
June 2, 2009
Mainland China's General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine issues the "Opinions on Further Supporting the Development of the Economic Zone on the West Coast of the Taiwan Strait." The opinions clearly stipulate 20 specific measures to support development on the west coast of the Taiwan Strait, including support for industrial linkages and expanded agricultural cooperation between Fujian and Taiwan.
June 7, 2009
At the Trade Forum of Overseas Taiwan Merchants Business Travel to Hunan 2009, mainland Chinese State Council's Taiwan Affairs Office Deputy Director Ye Kedong states that cross-strait economic exchanges and cooperation are the priorities in the current and future periods of Taiwan-related work. He hopes that on the basis of the realization of normalized cross-strait economic and trade relations, the two sides can promptly institutionalize and create mechanisms for cross-strait economic and trade relations, including the signing of an Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA) that meets the needs of cross-strait economic development and embodies cross-strait characteristics. In this way, the two sides can work towards joint development and prosperity.
June 10, 2009
Mainland Chinese State Council's Taiwan Affairs Office issues a press release indicating that the key to signing a cross-strait economic cooperation agreement is that the content of the agreement should be conducive to the establishment of an economic cooperation mechanism with cross-strait characteristics. The two sides should jointly move forward with preparatory work for negotiating and signing the agreement and work to resume talks in the second half of this year. Currently, cross-strait relations are promoted under the principle of prioritizing economic relations and carrying out comprehensive development in an orderly manner. This includes the vigorous promotion of cross-strait cultural and educational exchanges. When it comes to party-to-party exchanges, so long as the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) changes its separatist position of "Taiwan independence," mainland China welcomes DPP members to visit the Mainland for exchanges to promote understanding.
June 17, 2009
The Fujian Provincial Department of Labor and Social Security announces that Fujian all 178 types of professional skill examinations offered in the province are open to the people of Taiwan.
June 18, 2009
In a reception for overseas Chinese and Taiwanese in San Francisco, mainland Chinese State Council's Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi expresses hope that overseas compatriots of both sides will unite in mutual assistance and jointly create the future, adhering to the position that there is only one China in the world, and that both the Mainland and Taiwan belong to one China.
Wang states that there are currently three major tasks that mainland China will properly perform: strengthening and deepening cross-strait economic cooperation and negotiating on the signing of a cross-strait economic cooperation agreement; vigorously developing cultural and educational exchanges between both sides; and actively promoting the broadest possible people-to-people exchanges at a grassroots level in various sectors.
Wang further states that two things should be borne in mind in the process of pushing forward cross-strait relations in the current phase. One is to follow the basic principle of addressing the easy and economic issues first while handling difficult and political issues later, seizing the rhythm, and advancing in an orderly and gradual manner. This does not mean that complex and sensitive issues will be avoided, but rather that preparations should be made to pave a road and create conditions for ultimately resolving difficult issues. The other is to keep on cementing and deepening mutual political trust between the two sides, with the key point being the insistence of both sides that the Mainland and Taiwan belong to one China. Moreover, the two sides should form a clearer mutual understanding and unified position on this principle.
June 19, 2009
During a meeting with overseas Chinese in southern California, mainland Chinese State Council's Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi emphasizes that "building mutual trust, shelving controversies, finding commonalities despite differences, and creating together a win-win solution" has been the major spirit adhered to by the two sides over the past year. To build mutual trust is not only the key but also the foundation. The core of building mutual trust lies in adhering to the position that both the Mainland and Taiwan belong to one China. Cross-strait relations can only advance steadily and far by moving progressively forward and by deepening mutual political trust.
June 22, 2009
During a meeting with overseas Chinese in the greater Washington, D.C. area, mainland Chinese State Council's Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi states that in improving and developing cross-strait relations, there is no such thing as the problem of whether or not progress is too fast or too slow. The issue is to normalize relations after a long period of abnormality. The improvement and development of cross-strait relations also does not involve talks on purely economic issues without talks on political issues. Rather, it is a question of doing things in the order of priority.
June 23, 2009
During a meeting with U.S. think tank scholars in Washington, D.C., mainland Chinese State Council's Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi states that the Taiwan issue is by nature a domestic affair of mainland China, and it should be resolved through negotiations between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait. The Taiwan issue is also the most sensitive issue in Sino-US relations. U.S. respect for mainland China's core interests on the Taiwan issue is conducive to strengthening strategic mutual trust and cooperation between the two countries. It will also create a healthy environment for the development of cross-strait relations.
June 24, 2009
Mainland China's Taiwan Affairs Office issues a press release indicating that in pushing forward cross-strait relations in the current phase, the two sides should follow the basic principle of addressing the easy and economic issues first while handling difficult and political later, seizing the rhythm, and advancing in an orderly and gradual manner. The other is to keep on cementing and deepening the political mutual trust between the two sides. In the signing of a cross-strait economic cooperation agreement, the key is that the content of the agreement should be conducive to the establishment of an economic cooperation mechanism with cross-strait characteristics. The press release also praises the private cooperation between experts and scholars on the two sides in compiling an "Encyclopedic Dictionary of the Chinese Language" comparing vocabulary discrepancies for use by Mainland, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macao and overseas Chinese scholars.
June 27, 2009
During a meeting with James Steinberg, U.S. Deputy Secretary of State and Jeffrey Bader, senior director for Asian affairs at the U.S. National Security Council, mainland Chinese State Council's Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi states that the Taiwan issue is an internal affair of mainland China and should be resolved through negotiations between Chinese people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait. Moreover, upholding the peace and stability of Taiwan is consistent with the interests of all sides, including the United States. Mainland China hopes that with regard to the Taiwan issue, the US will scrupulously abide by the one China principle, continue to oppose and deter "Taiwan independence," and support the peaceful development of cross-strait relations.
July 2, 2009
During a meeting with members of a Taiwan inspection delegation for the cross-strait financial memorandum of understanding (MOU), Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi states that the two sides must first establish a military mutual trust mechanism. Once military mutual trust has been established, the matter of missile removal will not be difficult to resolve. He notes that there is still a shortage of direct cross-strait flights, though the flight paths in the northern line across the Taiwan Strait are now saturated, and suggests that the median line of the Taiwan Strait be opened.
July 2, 2009
During a regular press conference, mainland Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesman Qin Gang responds to a question on whether or not mainland China plans to set up economic and trade offices in countries having "diplomatic ties" with Taiwan. He notes that the mainland Chinese government is willing to conduct friendly cooperation and develop normal state-to-state relations with all countries in the world on the basis of the "one China" policy, which is universally recognized by the international community, the purposes and principles of the United Nations (UN) Charter, relevant UN General Assembly resolutions as well as the Five Principles of Peaceful Co-existence.
July 3, 2009
Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi issues a press release stating that the Mainland side has repeatedly expressed its hope that a direct central flight path across the Taiwan Strait can be established to relieve high saturation and pressure on the flight paths in the northern line across the Taiwan Strait and advance the welfare of compatriots on both sides of the Strait. He also understands that the two sides still have different views on this issue, noting that mainland China is willing to continue to hold negotiations on the matter through the SEF-ARATS channel.
July 7, 2009
In a speech delivered at the 2009 Cross-Strait Internet Development Forum, Taiwan Affairs Office Deputy Director Ye Kedong states that over the past year, the two sides have initially formed benign interactions and advanced to a new era of greater exchange, greater cooperation and greater development. In the course of improving and developing cross-strait relations, the internet industries of the two sides are building a bridge for communication and exchanges between compatriots on both sides of the Strait. The internet industries of the two sides should functionally develop further in the process of promoting the peaceful development of cross-strait relations.
July 11, 2009
At the Fifth Cross-Strait Economic, Trade and Cultural Forum, Jia Qinglin, member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau under the CPC Central Committee, states that the two sides should negotiate and sign a cross-strait cultural and educational exchange agreement and establish a mechanism for cross-strait cultural and educational exchanges and cooperation. At present, the two sides can organize personnel to first carry out research and planning on the negotiation and signing of a cross-strait cultural and educational exchange agreement, as well as offer constructive opinions on the specific content, form and steps and other related issues. The signing of a cross-strait cultural and educational exchange agreement can be included as a negotiation issue when the time is ripe.
July 11, 2009
Mainland China's Ministry of Culture, Ministry of Education, State Administration of Radio, Film and Television, and General Administration of Press and Publication announce at the Fifth Cross-Strait Economic, Trade and Cultural Forum several policy measures to promote cross-strait cultural and education exchanges. They include: the formulation of policies beneficial to Taiwan's performing arts sector by Mainland agencies in charge of cultural affairs, with such policies to be introduced at suitable time; participation in academic ability tests for Taiwan's university entrance examinations, and permission for Taiwanese students with test scores qualifying them for admission to top-tier universities to directly apply for admission to Mainland universities; and the inclusion of Beijing, Shanghai, Fujian, Jiangsu, and Zhejiang as trial areas for cross-strait publishing exchanges, as well as support for cooperation between publishers of both sides through the trading of publishing rights for scientific and technical publications.
July 12, 2009
At the opening ceremony for the Fifth Cross-Strait Economic, Trade and Cultural Forum, Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi states that the joint suggestions presented at the forum provide an overall line of thought for strengthening cross-strait cultural exchanges, draw a blueprint for bringing cross-strait cultural exchanges to a new level, and lay a foundation for future cross-strait negotiations on cross-strait cultural and educational exchanges.
July 21, 2009
During the first Cross-Straits Dialogue on Rural Affairs, Taiwan Affairs Office Deputy Director Ye Kedong states that the dialogue aims to further promote exchanges and cooperation between grassroots agricultural cooperative organizations on both sides. It is hoped that the establishment of a long-term and stable rural dialogue and exchange mechanism between the two sides will enable further development of the cross-strait division of labor in the agricultural industry.
July 21, 2009
The Shanghai World Expo Shanghai and Taipei World Trade Center Co., Ltd. officially signed an agreement on the participation of a Taiwan pavilion at the 2010 World Expo in Shanghai.
July 29, 2009
At the opening ceremony for the Second Tianjin-Taiwan Investment Cooperation Conference, Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi states that cross-strait economic relations are steadily normalizing and moving toward becoming institutionalized and mechanistic. In the spirit of "building mutual trust, shelving controversies, finding commonalities despite differences, and creating together a win-win solution," the two sides will continue to actively and steadily advance cross-strait relations; continue to consolidate the common political basis to oppose "Taiwan independence," adhere to the "1992 Consensus," and to strenuously strengthen and deepen mutual trust; and continue to strengthen mutual-benefit cooperation between both sides in various fields based on the idea of dealing with easy and economic issues first and difficult and political issues later, seizing the rhythm, and advancing in an orderly and gradual manner. The two sides will also forge consensus and create conditions to gradually resolve difficult issues in cross-strait relations.
August 2, 2009
The Standing Committee of the Fujian Provincial People's Congress approves the "Provisions Concerning the Protection and Management of Cultural Relics in Fujian Province." The Provisions will strengthen the preservation of cultural relics of Taiwan and encourage Taiwan compatriots to invest in areas related to Taiwan relics.
August 3, 2009
An ARATS media exchange delegation concludes its visit to Taiwan. The delegation leader Yang Yi, director of the Department of Information under mainland China's Taiwan Affairs Office, states that under the principle of handling "easy issues first and difficult issues later" and advancing in an orderly and gradual manner, the two sides should mutually establish permanent media offices as soon as possible and reach a consensus on media swap.
August 3, 2009
The Fujian Banking Regulatory Commission states that it will promote the mutual establishment of banking institutions between Fujian and Taiwan, strengthen equity cooperation between the Fujian-Taiwan banking industry, strengthen cross-strait banking collaboration, promote offshore financial operations for Taiwan, strengthen financial services for Taiwanese-funded enterprises, and create a smooth communication channel for the Fujian-Taiwan banking industry to deepen financial cooperation between the two sides.
August 4, 2009
The Fujian authorities announce the "Opinions on Fujian Province's Thorough Implementation of the 'Opinions of the State Council on Supporting Fujian Province to Accelerate the Building of the Economic Zone on the West Coast of the Taiwan Strait'." The "Opinions" express the intention to advance Fujian-Taiwan high-tech park exchanges and cooperation!Aas well as encourage and support Taiwan's technology and enterprise sectors to participate in the development of high-tech and new-tech parks.
August 6, 2009
During a meeting with a Taiwan delegation visiting Beijing, Wang Gang, vice chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), states that mainland China will continue to work on opening up new prospects for peaceful development of cross-strait relations on the basis of "building mutual trust, shelving controversies, finding commonalities despite differences, and creating together a win-win solution." As an organization for promoting social unity and coalitions, the CPPCC hopes to further broaden contact and communication with various sectors in Taiwan so as to fully promote in-depth exchanges between compatriots on both sides of the Strait and promote the peaceful development of cross-strait relations.
August 9, 2009
In a speech delivered at the opening ceremony of the "Eighth Hebei-Taiwan Economic Cooperation Conference," mainland China's Taiwan Affairs Office Deputy Director Sun Yafu states that mainland China will continue to advance cross-strait trust and maintain positive interactions based on the spirit of "building mutual trust, shelving controversies, finding commonalies despite differecnes, and creating together a win-win solution" and the joint political foundation of opposing "Taiwan independence" and adhering to the "1992 Consensus." It will also continue to create conditions to advance cross-strait negotiations and build consensus to gradually overcome the difficulties in cross-strait relations under the idea of handling the easy and economic issues first and difficult and political issues later, and advancing in an orderly and gradual manner. Mainland China will also continue to take active measures to fully promote cross-strait exchanges and cooperation. Deputy Director Sun also emphasizes that mainland China will continue to promote negotiations and the signing of a cross-strait economic cooperation agreement. Mainland China also hopes to resume talks in the second half of this year to further institutionalize and create mechanisms for cross-strait economic cooperation.
August 19, 2009
During a special news briefing, a spokesperson of mainland China's Taiwan Affairs Office states that the Mainland side can at any time provide Taiwan with goods, materials and machines needed for disaster relief and reconstruction work. It is also willing to send rescue teams, medical and health specialist teams, as well as engineering and rescue teams to Taiwan to join in the disaster relief and reconstruction work.
August 20, 2009
During a meeting with a delegation composed of Taiwan's ethnic minority groups, Mainland China's Minister of Commerce Chen Deming states that in the future Mainland's procurement missions to Taiwan will specially consider procurement from ethnic minority communities and strengthen linkages with enterprises in these areas.
August 26, 2009
Mainland China's State Administration for Industry and Commerce approves the "Opinions of the State Council on Supporting Fujian Province to Accelerate the Building of the Economic Zone on the West Coast of the Taiwan Strait." The "Opinions" allow privately or individually-owned business of Taiwan farmers registered in Fujian Province to join farmer cooperatives in Fujian Province as natural persons. They also permit Taiwan residents with agricultural production businesses in Fujian to register agricultural means of production as mortaged moveable properties with the local agencies responsible for industrial and commercial affairs.
August 27, 2009
Mainland China's State Ethnic Affairs Commission states that a key point of the "Opinions of the State Council on Supporting Fujian Province to Accelerate the Building of the Economic Zone on the West Coast of the Taiwan Strait" is to support Fujian to develop exchanges and cooperation between ethnic minority groups across the Strait, strengthen ethnic minority cultural rescue and preservation, and accelerate economic and social development in ethnic minority townships and villages.
August 27, 2009
Regarding the invitation extended by certain elements of Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party for the Dalai Lama to visit Taiwan, spokesperson of the Taiwan Affairs Office states that: "The Dalai Lama is not simply a religious person. Under the religious banner, he has consistently carried out activities to divide the nation. Mainland China therefore firmly opposes visits to Taiwan by the Dalai Lama in any form or capacity."
August 30, 2009
A Taiwan Affairs Office spokesperson issues a statement on the Dalai Lama's visit to Taiwan, indicating that the Democratic Progressive Party has hidden motives behind its invitation to the Dalai Lama, who has long instigated separatist activities. "Mainland China adheres to its clear firm position on staunchly opposing this. The Dalai Lama's visit to Taiwan will have a negative impact on cross-strait relations. Mainland China will closely watch this development."
September 3, 2009
The government of the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region announces the implementation of "Certain Policy Measures on Supporting the Development of Taiwanese-funded Enterprises." The measures— including tax incentives and fee waiver policies— are aimed at supporting the development of Taiwanese enterprises in Guangxi.
September 16, 2009
Mainland China's Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council holds a press conference, the main content of which includes the following:
- Mainland China hopes that the two sides can, in line with the spirit of tackling the "easy issues first and difficult issues later, and advancing in an orderly and gradual manner," create conditions to mutually establish permanent media offices across the Taiwan Strait at an early date.
- In accordance with demands under mainland Chinese State Council's "Certain Opinions on Supporting Fujian Province to Accelerate the Construction of the Economic Zone on the West Coast of the Taiwan Strait," mainland China will adopt more open and flexible policies on exchanges and cooperation with Taiwan to support the Economic Zone on the West Coast of the Taiwan Strait. These policies will be implemented first on a trial basis to build up experience, so as to enable the economic zone to play a more active role in promoting the peaceful development of cross-strait relations.
- Mainland China hopes that the two sides can further normalize cross-strait economic relations and institutionalize economic cooperation. Mainland China is also consistent in its active attitude toward the negotiation and signing of a memorandum of understanding on cross-strait financial supervisory cooperation and a cross-strait economic cooperation agreement.
- The health authorities in mainland China will further strengthen liaison and closely cooperate with the related authorities in Taiwan. One purpose is to ensure that both sides will closely communicate with each other and exchange information on infectious diseases so as to adopt effective measures for joint prevention and control. Another objective is to encourage exchanges among experts on the two sides in vaccine research and production and lab technology.
- Institutionalized negotiations between the SEF and the ARATS have already been established. Regarding the fourth SEF-ARATS talks, each side has been making preparations according to the initially agreed-upon issues. No decision has yet been reached as to when the talks will be held.