January 1, 1999
At the New Year tea party of the PRC National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, PRC President Jiang Zemin says that the two sides should engage in dialogue and negotiations to seek a reasonable solution to the political differences. Furthermore, the two sides should expand exchanges, open up a full array of cross-strait relations, and promote peaceful unification.
January 3, 1999
The People's Daily publishes an article by Chen Yunlin, director of Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, which states that cross-strait political differences can be resolved via negotiations. Conditions and timing are mature for both sides to resume political negotiations.
January 11, 1999
Wen Hui Bao of Hong Kong, quoting a Beijing authoritative source, says that if the United States includes Taiwan into the Theater Missile Defense (TMD) system, the PRC "will be forced to make proper military adjustments to safeguard the integrity of national sovereignty and territory.
January 15, 1999
PRC Vice Premier Qian Qichen announces seven principles and policies to deal with Macau-Taiwan issues after Macau's sovereignty is reverted to the PRC late this year, which become known as Qian's Seven Principles toward Taiwan-Macau relations.
January 28, 1999
The PRC holds a ceremony in commemoration of the fourth anniversary of Jiang Zemin's Eight-point Proposal and the 20th Anniversary of Papers for Taiwan Compatriots. PRC Vice Premier Qian Qichen urges the two sides to resume political negotiations and open the three direct links (of postal, business and transportation). He says SEF and ARATS should live up to the four agreements of the Koo-Wang Meeting to have early discussion, including arrangements for political and economic dialogue. The Taiwan issue cannot be postponed indefinitely, he says.
February 2-3, 1999
The 1999 National Meeting for Directors of Taiwan Affairs is held in Huairou, Beijing. The meeting calls for continuous execution of instructions and missions adopted at the National Meeting on Works Related to Taiwan last May and guidelines given by leaders at the Ceremony to Commemorate the Fourth Anniversary of Jiang Zemin's Eight-point Proposal and the 20th Anniversary of the Papers for Taiwan Compatriots. Also, leaders at the meeting gave directions on Taiwan affairs to be handled by the offices in provinces, cities, and autonomous regions this year.
February 3, 1999
Mainland China convenes the Preparatory Committee Meetings for the Macau Special Administrative Region in Zhuhai for three days with subcommittee meetings on political and legal affairs.
February 8, 1999
Wang Yonghai, deputy director of the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council and the CCP Central Office on Taiwan Works, releases an article in the overseas edition of the People's Daily. He says that the concept of "New Taiwanese" and the argument that "Taiwan's future shall be decided by plebiscite" in essence are to negate the "one China" principle and attempt to split Taiwan from China's territory. The critical step to develop cross-strait relations and realize national unification is to resume promptly cross-strait political talks, he said.
March 1, 1999
The PRC convenes the sixth plenary meeting of the Preparatory Committee for the Macau Special Administrative Region. Vice Premier Qian Qichen says that the future of Macau-Taiwan relations, like Hong Kong-Taiwan relations, is a "special component of cross-strait relations." Macau-Taiwan affairs in relation to the national sovereignty and the cross-strait relations shall fall under the authority of the central government, or shall be handled by the Macau Special Administrative Region Government under the supervision of the central government.
March 3-11, 1999
Mainland China holds the Second Meeting of the Ninth Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) in the People's Hall in Beijing for eight days. Vice Chairman of the CPPCC, Ye Xuanping, says in a report that Taiwan affairs should focus on advancing the cross-strait dialogue and political talks, promoting peaceful unification, and opposing any activity leading to "Taiwan independence", "two Chinas" or "one China, one Taiwan". He urges the continued promotion of Jiang's eight-point proposal, the expansion of contacts with Taiwan people and more economic and cultural exchanges and cooperation across the strait.
March 4, 1999
The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region sets up an office in the Henderson Center in Beijing, including divisions on economic affairs, trade, liaison, entry affairs, information, and administration.
March 5-15, 1999
Mainland China holds the Second Meeting of the Ninth National People's Congress in Beijing for 11 days. PRC Premier Zhu Rongji presents a working report on 10 aspects. Regarding the ninth subject of "endeavoring for peaceful unification for the mother land", Zhu first explains the PRC's policies toward Hong Kong and Taiwan. For works in the next year, the PRC will follow the basic principle of "peaceful unification," "one country, two systems," Jiang's eight-point proposal, and support of Taiwan people's suggestions that are reasonable and good for unification. In addition, Zhu urges political negotiations between the two sides and an end to the hostile situation under the principle of "one China." He urges the Taiwan side to make real efforts for the further advancement of cross-strait relations.
March 11, 1999
The second meeting of the Ninth National People's Congress is concluded. The meeting adopts a political decision to ask Taiwan to react to the Jiang's eight-point proposal and to promptly enter into political negotiations with the Mainland in order to end the hostile situation under the principle of "one China".
March 15, 1999
At a press conference after the second meeting for the Ninth National People's Congress, PRC Premier Zhu Rongji claims that Mainland China missiles would never be aimed at Taiwan compatriots or used lightly. But he says Mainland China can not but deploy missiles in the Taiwan Strait. Mainland China expects peaceful unification but it will not renounce the use of force. If it did, Taiwan could be split away from Chinese territory forever.
March 15, 1999
Wang Hui, director of the Department of Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macau Affairs under the Foreign Trade Administration of the PRC State Council, leads a delegation to visit Taiwan at the invitation of the Cross-strait Business Development Foundation.
March 20-30, 1999
PRC President Jiang Zemin leaves Beijing to visit Italy, Switzerland and Austria on the afternoon of March 20.
March 29, 1999
The United Front Work Department of the CCP Central Committee and Taiwan Works Office hold a "Seminar of Policy Reports on the Taiwan Works" in the Hall of the People in Beijing.
March 29, 1999
Guangdong Government establishes in Guangzhou city the "Complaint Center for Taiwan Businessmen" to accept and handle petitions filed by Taiwan businessmen. The center is directly under the Taiwan Affairs Office of the Guangdong Provincial Government.
April 6-14, 1999
At U.S. President Bill Clinton's invitation, PRC Prime Minister Zhu Rongji pays an official visit to the U.S. during April 6-14.
April 8, 1999
At the joint press conference after the Clinton-Zhu meeting, Zhu says that post-1997 Hong Kong development exemplifies the PRC's strict adherence to "one country, two systems" and "Hong Kong being governed by Hong Kong people with high autonomy." Conditions for unification with Taiwan could be more relaxed, says Zhu, meaning that Taiwan can keep its own military forces and the Taiwan leader can serve as deputy leader at the central government level. As for cross-strait unification, the PRC repeats its position that it will reach unification through peaceful means, but would never renounce the use of force against Taiwan.
April 10, 1999
PRC Prime Minister Zhu and U. S. President Clinton issue a joint announcement on the PRC's accession to the WTO.
April 15-20, 1999
At the invitation of the Canadian prime minister, PRC Prime Minister Zhu pays an official visit to Canada during April 15-20.
May 6, 1999
Zhu Bangzao, spokesman of the PRC Ministry of Foreign Affairs, claims that the World Health Organization (WHO) is a government-to-government organization under the United Nations umbrella. WHO membership is only for sovereign states, and that being a province of the PRC, Taiwan is not qualified to enter the WHO, Zhu says, adding that, "Such a conspiracy can never succeed."
May 27, 1999
Mainland China promulgates the regulations governing adoption, registration, necessary identification and other materials for overseas Chinese and Chinese citizens in Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan."
May 28, 1999
In a press conference where he comments on the "Cox Report," Li Zhaoxing, PRC ambassador to the United States, refuses to give a direct reply to the question whether the PRC would use nuclear weapons against Taiwan. He claims that it is a domestic affair to deploy nuclear weapons on the Mainland, in which no foreigner shall have a saying.
June 1, 1999
The NPC Standing Committee of Fujian Province adopts the regulations on recruiting Taiwanese students to study in Fujian Province. With 16 articles, the provisions allow Taiwanese students to receive formal or informal schooling in Fujian.
June 8, 1999
Zhang Qiyue, spokesperson of the PRC Ministry of Foreign Affairs, says that the PRC strongly opposes the "Taiwan Security Enhancement Act" now pending in the U.S. Senate and House of Representative. She demands the Clinton administration publicly express its objection to the bill and take effective measures to prevent it from being adopted.
June 28, 1999
The PRC NPC Standing Committee adopts the "Macau Special Garrison Law."
June 30, 1999
While attending APEC meetings in Auckland, New Zealand, Long Yongtu, vice minister of the PRC Ministry of Foreign Trade and Economic Cooperation, says that the PRC's entry into the WTO should come before that of Taiwan, or it will take any measure necessary to block Taiwan's accession.
July 8, 1999
The web site , operated by the PRC Shanghai Internet Service Center for Taiwan Citizens, opens on July 8. The site, with a logo handwritten by ARATS Chairman Wang Daohan, contains four program sections -- "What's new," "Shanghai-Taiwan exchanges," "Service guide," "Databank," and some 20 columns. With stories, pictures, and images, the site provides information regarding Shanghai-Taiwan exchanges of family visits, travel, business, education, and medical services to promote exchanges between the two areas.
July 12, 1999
In an interview with the Xinhua News Agency and China News Service, ARATS Chairman Wang Daohan says he is surprised at hearing Lee's statement of "special state-to-state relationship." Wang says that the statement will destroy the foundation for cross-strait talks under the "one China" principle.
July 13, 1999
At the opening ceremony of the "Eighth Seminar on Cross-strait Relations," Sun Xioayu, vice director of the Development Research Center under the PRC State Council and vice chairman of Taiwan Research Association, delivers welcoming remarks. On learning of President Lee's statement regarding the "special state-to-state relationship," scholars and participants focus on cross-strait political developments and have a heated debate over the pros and cons.
July 15, 1999
In the "Sixth Meeting of the Board of Directors of the China Council for the Promotion of Peaceful Reunification," Chen Yunlin, director of the CCP Taiwan Affairs Office and the director-general of the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, attacks Lee's statement of "special state-to-state relationship." Chen says that the two-state statement came from the "no haste, be patient" policy and has seriously damaged cross-strait relations. The PRC's Taiwan policy will further lean toward "hopes for the Taiwan people" in the future.
July 16-19, 1999
The "1999 High-level Forum on the Practice and Strategy of Attracting Investment in China and Cross-strait Economic Cooperation, Tours, and Exchange Programs" is held in Xiamen from July 16-19 under the sponsorship of the China Academy of Investment Environment and the Taiwan Affairs Legal Service Center of Xiamen, an affiliate of the PRC State Council Taiwan Affairs Office. The participants include representatives of provincial, city, and county governments, economic development zones and high-tech industrial development zones, and directors of state-owned corporations.
July 18, 1999
U.S. President Bill Clinton has a hotline telephone conversation with the PRC President Jiang Zemin, in which Jiang criticizes Lee's statement of the "special state-to-state relationship." He says that the statement is a dangerous step and a serious provocation to the "One China" principle that has been recognized by international society." Clinton reiterates that Washington's "One China" policy remains unchanged.
July 20, 1999
Representatives of the CCP Taiwan Affairs Office and State Council Taiwan Affairs Office make public a statement that Beijing "strongly opposes the Taiwan separation force's attempt to amend the Constitution in accordance with Lee Teng-hui's 'two-state theory.'"
July 26, 1999
At the ASEAN Regional Forum, PRC Foreign Minister Tang Jiaxuan stresses that the "Taiwan issue" is a domestic affair of the PRC. He says that "if Taiwan attempted independence and foreign forces supported the separation, the PRC and all Chinese will not sit and watch."
August 2, 1999
PRC Vice Defense Minister Yang Jiechi says that the Washington's arms sales to Taiwan will escalate the tensions in the Taiwan Straits and destroy U.S.-PRC relations. Resolving the Taiwan issue and unifying China must be realized, he says.
August 2, 1999
Chang Mingqing, director-general of the Information Bureau of the Taiwan Affairs Office of the PRC State Council, says that the position paper issued by MAC has not departed from the "two-state theory."
August 2, 1999
The PRC State Council Taiwan Affairs Office convenes a meeting in Beijing with the participation of representatives of Taiwan businessmen associations in Beijing, Tianjin, Fujian, and Guangdong. The conference, called by Deputy Director-general Li Bingcai and Economic Affairs Bureau Director Liu Zhentao, focuses on cross-strait developments after the announcement of "special state-to-state relationship." Li says that as long as Taiwan can return to the consensus reached by SEF Chairman Koo Chen-fu and ARATS Chairman Wang Daohan in Singapore in 1993, cross-strait exchanges can be resumed.
August 4, 1999
Representatives of the CCP Taiwan Affairs Office and State Council Taiwan Affairs Office issue a formal statement commenting on MAC position paper on the "special state-to-state relationship," saying that the statement used the word "special" simply to cover up the essence of separatism. The real intent is still calling for two states. ARATS has never agreed nor will agree with that "the interpretation for one China is subject to each side," which is "a statement that was made up by the Taiwan authorities, and a lie that will be utterly seen through."
August 12, 1999
The Propaganda Bureau of the CCP Taiwan Affairs Office and the Information Bureau of the State Council make public an article titled "One China is an indisputable fact," which gives background explanation to the PRC's "One China" policy. It says that the PRC has never stated that Taiwan is a "renegade province."
August 12, 1999
The Beidaihe Meeting makes a decision that ARATS Chairman Wang Daohan's planned visit to Taiwan this October is cancelled.
August 13, 1999
Chen Yunlin, chairman of the CCP Taiwan Affairs Office and the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, says that Lee's "two-state theory" has destroyed the foundation of the cross-strait exchanges, escalated tensions in the Taiwan Straits, and caused a setback to the development of cross-strait relations.
August 14, 1999
CCP leaders make a decision in the Beidaihe meeting that if Taiwan codifies the "two-state theory" into its Constitution, the PRC will use force against Taiwan.
August 14, 1999
ARATS Chairman Wang Daohan says that if Lee retracts the "two-state theory," he will still visit Taiwan.
August 15, 1999
Qian Qichen, vice premier and deputy director of the CCP Taiwan Affairs Group, says that the PRC is waiting for Koo Chen-fu to retract the "two-state theory."
August 15, 1999
ARATS Vice Chairman Tang Shubei says that whether Beijing adjusts its Taiwan policy depends on the outcome of Taiwan's presidential election.
August 16, 1999
PRC Vice Premier Qian Qichen says that the PRC and its people are determined and able to safeguard the PRC's sovereignty and territorial integrity. He says that Lee Teng-hui's misconduct is unpopular among the Taiwan people and is doomed to fail.
August 16, 1999
Wang Zhaoguo, head of the PRC United Front Office, says that if Taiwan maintained "special state-to-state relationship" rhetoric in deviation from the "One China" principle, Beijing will take strong measures to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
August 16-18, 1999
State Council Taiwan Affairs Office holds a "National Conference of Directors of Taiwan Affairs Office" at the training center in Huairou, Beijing. The conference focuses on passing down the central government's policy against Lee's "two-states theory" and ways to handle Taiwan affairs before Taiwan's presidential election next year.
August 17, 1999
The Beidaihe Meeting makes a decision to reexamine the strategy of unifying Taiwan.
August 19, 1999
Qin Huasun, PRC Representative to the UN, in a letter to UN Secretary-general Kofi Annan, reiterates the PRC's firm stance against "Taiwan's bid into the UN," saying that parallel representation is not applicable to Taiwan's situation.
August 19, 1999
Li Zhaoxing, PRC ambassador to the US, says the PRC does not rule out the possibility of using force against Taiwan independence. He asks the U.S. not to intervene in China's domestic affairs.
August 19, 1999
Replying to reporters' question, Li Zhaoxing, PRC ambassador to the U.S., describes Lee as a person having "three mosts." Li claims Lee to be the largest barrier in the cross-strait dialogue and peaceful unification, the biggest troublemaker in the China-U.S. ties, and the most de-stablizing factor in the Asia-Pacific regional development.
August 19, 1999
PRC Vice Premier Qian Qichen meets HKSAR Secretary for Justice Elsie Leung Di-sie in Beijing. In a press conference after the meeting, reporters ask Qian whether the "special state-to-state relationship" can be publicly supported in Hong Kong, in view that Cheng An-kuo, ROC representative in Hong Kong, on July 17 publicly defended Lee's policy in a program of Radio Television Hong Kong (RTHK). Qian warns that the Hong Kong-Taiwan relations should follow the "one country, two systems" principle, and such statement should not be publicly endorsed or circulated in Hong Kong.
August 19, 1999
The National Conference for Taiwan Affairs Directors adopts a strategy to "suppress independence with war, promote dialogue for peace" and a position that "to deal with Taiwan's pseudo-independence, the PRC should adopt pseudo-war."
August 20, 1999
Li Zhaoxing, PRC ambassador to the United States, says that Beijing strongly opposes to Washginton's introduction of the TMD system to Taiwan. Li says continues U.S. arms sales to Taiwan will anger many as well as become an unstable factor in the Asia-Pacific region.
August 20, 1999
Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government spokesman says that Cheng An-kuo's statement of "special state-to-state relationship" on July 17 was inappropriate and violated the "one China" principle.
August 21, 1999
Li Zhaoxing, PRC ambassador to the United States, says that whether Wang will visit Taiwan is subject to Lee Teng-hui's moves. Beijing stands firmly in asking "Lee to retract the 'two-states relations.'"
August 22, 1999
A CCP official in charge of Taiwan affairs says that Taiwan's insistence on the "two-state relationship" statement destroys the basis of SEF-ARATS contacts, exchanges, and dialogue, and disrupts normal operations between the two associations, for which Taiwan should be held fully liable. He said, if the Taiwan side failed to retract the "two-state theory," the SEF-ARATS deadlock will continue.
August 23-25, 1999
The "Meeting on Propaganda toward Taiwan" is held at the Training Center on Taiwan Affairs in Huairou, Beijing, under the sponsorship of the PRC State Council, focusing on the propaganda guidelines against Taiwan with respect to the "special state-to-state relationship." It is decided that as long as Taiwan does not retract the statement, the PRC will focus on struggle and escalate propaganda of "peaceful unification," "one country, two systems," and "Jiang's eight-point proposal."
August 26, 1999
Sources in the Beijing political community say that the PRC will ask international organizations to urge Taiwan to abide by the organic laws and the "One China" principle. Taiwan should not make use of the opportunities of attending international activities to engage in separation activities. If Taiwan spread the "two-state relations" in international activities, it might be given a warning, curtailed in activities, or even expelled from the organization as the situation warrants.
August 28, 1999
PRC Vice Premier Qian Qichen says that the cross-strait relations have reached another crux.
August 28, 1999
Li Zhaoxing, PRC ambassador to the United States, says Lee introduced the statement "special state-to-state relationship" for fear that cross-strait relations are moving for the better and PRC-US ties are thawing. He says that Beijing is confident to make Lee retract the statement.
August 28, 1999
Li Zhaoxing, PRC ambassador to the US, says that there is an "adverse force" in the United States still in favor of arms sales or a TMD umbrella to Taiwan, to which the PRC is strongly opposed.
August 30, 1999
PRC President Jiang Zemin says he hopes to solve the Taiwan issue as soon as possible. He insists that the PRC has the rights to use force for unification.
August 30, 1999
According to Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post, PRC President Jiang Zemin agrees to increase the military outlay on advanced weapons in order to deter Taiwan independence forces and to counter the U.S. expansionism.
August 31, 1999
CCP Taiwan Affairs Office officials condemn Lee's adoption of the "special state-to-state relationship" into the KMT policy. Accusing Lee for being stubborn, the article says that Lee has dogmatically promoted the "two-state relationship" and incorporated it into the KMT's Mainland policy as the guiding principles, which is not only a step dangerously toward separation, but also pushes Taiwan people to the edge of war.
September 2, 1999
Mainland China Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Sun Yuxi says that mainland China would not use nuclear weapons against Taiwanese compatriots. He goes on to say that Jiang Zemin will be taking advantage of a summit meeting other than the APEC conference to ask that the USA takes action in accordance with the "Three No's" and "One-China Policy."
September 2, 1999
The Fujian Tax District in mainland China formulates eight tax incentive measures to encourage the development of foreign trade.
September 3, 1999
While giving an address in Bangkok, mainland China president Jiang Zemin appeals, as an Asian leader, to all the nations of Asia, including Thailand and other ASEAN member nations, to jointly oppose the hegemonistic Western nations headed by the USA, to enable Beijing to settle the Taiwan issue in accordance with the principles of "peaceful reunification" and "one country, two systems."
September 3, 1999
The Taiwan Affairs Office of Shanghai City Government holds a conference on the Taiwan issue, to explain to the people of Shanghai the current development of cross-strait relations.
September 4, 1999
Mainland China President Jiang Zemin says that for Lee Teng-hui to openly describe cross-strait relations as a "state-to-state relationship" is a dangerous step on the road towards national division, and a serious challenge to the "one-China principle" which is universally accepted by the global community; Jiang says that this action by Lee Teng-hui will affect the stable cross-strait relations and the foundations for peaceful unification.
September 7, 1999
Mainland China Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Sun Yuxi says that the "East Timor issue" and "Taiwan issue" are problems of a completely different nature, and cannot be compared with one another. He goes on to say that the plans by the Taiwanese authorities to hold a plebiscite amount to playing with fire, and could have very serious consequences.
September 9, 1999
Mainland China's Taiwan Affairs Office and Foreign Ministry organize five delegations to visit the USA, Europe, Japan and Southeast Asia to explain mainland China's Taiwan policy.
September 11, 1999
Mainland China Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Zhu Bangzao says that Jiang Zemin is extremely concerned about US arms sales to Taiwan, and is demanding that the USA prevents the passing of the Taiwan Security Enhancement Act, and cease arms sales to Taiwan.
September 15, 1999
Mainland China Foreign Ministry spokesperson Sun Yuxi says that the authorities in Taiwan should work to maintain the interests of Taiwanese compatriots and ensure the stability of cross-strait relations, and that the only course of action open to them is to retract Lee Teng-hui's "two states" theory.
September 17, 1999
Wang Yonghai, Deputy Director of the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, says that the "two states" theory put forward by the authorities in Taiwan has violated the "one country, two systems" principle, and threatens the peace and stability of the Asia Pacific region. Wang says that mainland China would do its best to find a peaceful solution to the "Taiwan issue," but would not agree to renounce the use of force.
September 17, 1999
At a conference held in Brussels by the Research Institute for European and Asian Affairs, a six-person delegation from mainland China consisted of officials of the Taiwan Affairs Office and Ministry of Foreign Affairs delivers an address on cross-strait relations in which, besides criticizing President Lee Teng-hui's "special state-to-state relationship" theory, they also reiterate that mainland China will not renounce the right to use force against Taiwan.
September 19 - 22, 1999
The Fifteenth Plenary Session of the Fourth National Congress of the Chinese Communist Party is held in Beijing from September 19 - 22. The conference discusses the reform of state enterprises, as well as the need to remain vigilant against the threat from the "new hegemonism" led by the USA, and against the forces seeking Taiwanese independence.
September 21, 1999
According to a report by the Xinhua News Agency, President Jiang Zemin expresses concern over the serious earthquake that has occurred in Taiwan, and says that Beijing is ready to provide all necessary assistance to reduce the damage caused by the earthquake.
September 21, 1999
Mainland China Minister for Foreign Affairs Tang Jiaxuan says that Beijing's disaster relief policy towards Taiwan is very clear; it is that "humanitarianism should be kept separate from politics." Tang says that Beijing will discuss with various international organizations, including the United Nations, how disaster relief should be conducted.
September 22, 1999
A meeting is held in Beijing to celebrate the fiftieth anniversary of the establishment of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC). During the meeting, President Jiang Zemin gives an address in which he urges the CPPCC to work towards the securing of Taiwan's return to mainland China and the reunification of the motherland.
September 22, 1999
Mainland China Minister for Foreign Affairs Tang Jiaxuan expresses concern for the victims of the earthquake in Taiwan, and emphasizes that mainland China enjoys sovereignty over Taiwan. He also gives an address at the United Nations Assembly in which he reiterates the "one China" policy, and rejects the Western nations' view that "human rights are more important than sovereignty."
September 22, 1999
Sun Aiming, Secretary General of the mainland China Red Cross, sends a letter to the "Secretary General of the Red Cross" in the ROC, expressing the desire to give immediate assistance to compatriots in Taiwan affected by the earthquake. The letter says that three rescue teams have been organized which are ready to be sent to Taiwan at any time to assist the Taiwan Red Cross in humanitarian rescue work.
September 23, 1999
Mainland China Minister for Foreign Affairs Tang Jiaxuan says that in putting forward the "special state-to-state relationship" theory, President Lee Teng-hui has revealed his intentions to make Taiwan independent, and that President Lee has shown himself to be a "troublemaker" in Sino-American relations and the "main obstacle" to improve relations between China and the USA.
September 23, 1999
Mainland China Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Zhang Qiyue says that if President Lee Teng-hui is willing to publicly retract the "two states" theory and return to the "one China" principle, mainland China would be willing to recommence dialogue and negotiation with Taiwan on a broad range of issues, including political and economic issues.
September 27, 1999
At the 1999 Global Fortune Forum held in Shanghai, mainland China President Jiang Zemin reiterates that the reason why mainland China will not agree to abandon the use of force to solve the Taiwan problem is so as to promote a peaceful solution to the problem.
September 29, 1999
Hu Jintao, Vice Chairman of mainland China's Central Military Commission, says that, while every effort should be made to achieve peaceful unification, mainland China cannot undertake not to use force against Taiwan.
September 30, 1999
Mainland China Premier Zhu Rongji says that the Taiwan problem must be solved soon after the return of Hong Kong and Macao to the motherland, to achieve the complete reunification of China.
September 30, 1999
While meeting with a group of American businesspeople, mainland China Premier Zhu Rongji comments on the Taiwan issue, insisting that the USA must implement "two abandonments" in their Taiwan policy. One is to abandon their insistence on a "peaceful solution" to the issue of cross-strait relations; the other is to stop hinting the USA would help to defend Taiwan.
October 1, 1999
While delivering an important address at a meeting to celebrate the fiftieth anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, Jiang Zemin says that mainland China will continue to insist on "peaceful reunification and the One China policy," and that once Hong Kong and Macao have been returned to the motherland, the reunification of Taiwan and mainland China will be completed.
October 4, 1999
While replying to reporters' questions regarding international aid to the regions of Taiwan affected by the earthquake, mainland China Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Zhu Bangzao says that mainland China welcomes and is grateful for aid that goes through proper channels, and has consistently done its utmost to make the provision of such aid as convenient as possible.
October 4, 1999
The Hong Kong Region delegate to the National People's Congress suggests that the Hong Kong government be allowed to establish a special office to handle Taiwan affairs.
October 17, 1999
While visiting Syrian Prime Minister Mahmoud Az-Zoubi and Minister of Defense Mustafa Tlass, mainland China Central Military Commission Chairman and Minister of Defense Chi Haotian criticizes the "two states" theory as an attempt to split China, and claims that the People's Liberation Army will protect national sovereignty and the integrity of the national territory at whatever cost.
October 17, 1999
Mainland China's Xinhua News Agency reports that in Shanxi Province, in order to strengthen local cadres' understanding of the Party's Taiwan policy, it has been arranged for 100,000 cadres of Technician rank and above to sit an examination on Taiwan policy.
October 18, 1999
In an interview with the UK's Times newspaper in Beijing prior to his visit to the UK, when asked what objectives mainland China plans to achieve by 2050, mainland China President Jiang Zemin says that China will be modernizing, and will finally solve the Taiwan issue; after the recovery of Hong Kong and Macao, national reunification will be completed in accordance with the principles of peaceful unification and "one country, two systems."
October 20, 1999
Zhang Huaiyun, Director of the Exchange Bureau, Taiwan Affairs Office of mainland China's State Council, appeals to the authorities in Taiwan to allow rescue workers and material aid from mainland China to enter Taiwan, in order to help the victims of the earthquake and improve cross-strait relations.
October 20, 1999
Zhang Huaiyun, Director of the Exchange Bureau, Taiwan Affairs Office of mainland China's State Council, criticizes President Lee Teng-hui, and expresses the hope that the authorities in Taiwan will not allow the earthquake issue to become politicized; he says that Taiwan should not ignore disaster relief simply because it does not accord with their plans.
October 25, 1999
In an interview with French newspaper Le Figaro, mainland China President Jiang Zemin emphasizes that mainland China will not renounce the right to use force against Taiwan, and reiterates that mainland China's basic policy towards Taiwan is based on the principles of peaceful reunification and "one country, two systems."
October 28, 1999
While criticizing the passing of the revised Taiwan Security Enhancement Act by the International Relations Committee of the United States Congress, mainland China Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Zhang Qiyue says that the Act constitutes a serious violation of three joint communiques issued by China and the USA, infringes on China's sovereignty, and represents crude interference in China's internal affairs. Mainland China expresses strong indignation and determined opposition to the Act.
October 28, 1999
The People's Daily reports that the Beijing City Party Committee and City Government have established a Taiwanese Businessperson Investment Service Center and a Complaints Center for Taiwanese Businessperson in Beijing.
November 2, 1999
In a meeting with the UK Chief of General Staff, mainland China Central Military Commission Vice Chairman Zhang Wannian notes that, regarding the Taiwan issue, while adhering to the principles of "peaceful reunification" and the "One China policy," mainland China will not agree to renounce the use of force. Zhang says that this is aimed at the forces seeking Taiwanese independence, and at foreign powers.
November 2, 1999
Yu Shuning, Counselor with the Rank of Minister and spokesperson attached to the mainland China embassy in the USA, says that the Taiwan Security Enhancement Act will constitute a serious threat to relations between mainland China and the USA, and will increase the level of tension in the Taiwan Strait. He says that mainland China has noticed that Republican congressmen have decided to put off the passage of the Act until next year, but says that this is not enough.
November 5, 1999
During an interview with the Australian Financial Review, Li Daoyu, mainland China's ambassador to the USA and representative at the United Nations, says that if Australia backs America in any military conflict that may occur over Taiwan, the consequences would be serious.
November 12, 1999
The five-day Military Conference of the Chiefs of Staff ends in Beijing.
November 15 - 17, 1999
The Central Committee of the Chinese Communist Party and the State Council hold a Central Conference on Economic Works in Beijing over the period November 15 - 17.
November 18, 1999
Mainland China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirms that the list of foreign heads of state to be invited to Macao to witness the transfer of sovereignty to China on December 20 has nearly been finalized. However, they are as yet unable to give a definite answer as to whether any persons from Taiwan will be invited, as inviting Koo Chen-fu or anyone else "would have a demonstration effect."
November 23, 1999
Regarding Taiwan's decision to withdraw troops from the Tungsha and Nanshan islands, the mainland China government agencies responsible for Taiwan affairs and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs issue statements emphasizing the issue of "sovereignty," and noting that in accordance with the "One China" principle, Taiwan and mainland China should work together to maintain national sovereignty and the integrity of the national territory.
November 28, 1999
Li Zhaoxing, Mainland China's ambassador to the USA, says that the most difficult stage of mainland China's attempts to enter into the WTO has already passed, and that mainland China can look forward to being admitted to the WTO any day now. Li says that not only will mainland China not try to prevent Taiwan from joining the WTO, they in fact hope that Taiwan will be allowed to join as early as possible; however, Taiwan must join after mainland China.
December 2, 1999
Regarding the question of entry into the WTO for mainland China and Taiwan, mainland China ambassador to the USA Li Zhaoxing stresses that the important thing is the order in which they join; he does not discuss what name mainland China would prefer Taiwan to join under. Li says that the most important thing is that there be only "one China" in the WTO, and that only after mainland China has joined can consideration be given to allowing the individual customs district of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu to join.
December 3, 1999
Mainland China Minister for Foreign Trade and Economic Cooperation Shi Guangsheng notes that mainland China does not object to Taipei joining the WTO under the name "Customs District of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu," but insists that after joining the WTO Taiwan not be allowed to use the "exclusion clause."
December 12, 1999
Mainland China Premier Zhu Rongji signs the 274th Directive of the State Council for the promulgation of the Detailed Implementation Guidelines for the Law for the Protection of Investment by Taiwan Compatriots in the People's Republic of China, which comes into effect on December 5.
December 13, 1999
The Shenzhen Work Committee of mainland China's Taiwan Affairs Office decides that replies to queries relating to Taiwan affairs will no longer be sent via ARATS.
December 17, 1999
Wang Yonghai, Vice Chairman of the Taiwan Affairs Office of mainland China's State Council, notes that after the transfer of sovereignty in Macao, all matters concerning Macao and Taiwan that relate to national sovereignty and cross-strait relations should be handled by the mainland China government, or else handled by the Macao Special Region Government under the guidance of the mainland China government.
December 20, 1999
Mainland China President Jiang Zemin says that important progress has been made in the great task of reunification, and that the implementation of the "One Country, Two Systems" principle in Hong Kong and Macao has had an important demonstration effect with regard to solving the Taiwan issue. Jiang says that the government and people of mainland China are confident in their ability to solve the Taiwan issue at a not too distant date, thereby bringing about the complete reunification of China.
December 20, 1999
The model for interaction between Taiwan and Macao will be more official than that between Taiwan and Hong Kong. The Chief Executive of the Macao Special Region Government, He Houhua, says that there is no need for Macao to interfere in political matters relating to cross-strait relations, confirming for the first time that the Taiwan representative office in Macao will be able to have direct contact with the Macao Special Region Government.
December 23, 1999
While meeting with a delegation including Taiwan Strait Commercial Coordination Committee Chairman Chang P'ing-chao, mainland China Vice Premier Qian Qichen says that after Taiwan and mainland China join the WTO next year, they should strengthen economic and trade collaboration and open up direct trade, transportation and communications links, in order to enhance their respective international competitiveness.
December 23, 1999
During a press conference, while answering questions from journalists concerning mainland China's diplomacy during 1999, mainland China Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhang Qiyue says that a very effective struggle has been made against the "two states" theory raised by President Lee Teng-hui, which has been effective in combating the forces supporting Taiwanese independence and maintaining national sovereignty.
December 25, 1999
Mainland China's Taiwan affairs think-tank, the National Taiwan Research Association, holds a conference to discuss trends in cross-strait relations next year. The participants at the meeting note that Beijing needs to be prepared for the possibility that the Democratic Progressive Party may become the ruling party in Taiwan, and that Beijing should reconsider its policy towards Taiwan.
December 27, 1999
ARATS Secretary General Zhang Jincheng says that further progress in Taiwan - Macao relations should be possible as long as the Basic Law for Macao and "Qian Qichen's Seven Points" are rigorously adhered to. Zhang says that, following the renaming of the Taiwan representative office in Macao, the office will be able to operate within the registered scope of its activities, and that it will be more convenient for Taiwanese compatriots to enter or leave Macao.
December 27, 1999
Mainland China Minister for Foreign Affairs Tang Jiaxuan says that the Taiwan issue is the most difficult problem affecting relations between Washington and Beijing, and also the most challenging. Tang says that regardless of who leads the US administration in the new century, they will have to stick to the USA's current China policy, and make a clear statement on the USA's policy towards Taiwan.
December 28, 1999
Wang Daohan's brains trust puts forward a three-stage solution to the Taiwan issue. They claim that within fifty years mainland China will have completed the two major processes of political and economic reform, and that the recovery of Taiwan will also be achieved during this period.
December 31, 1999
A mainland China official proposes a model for indirect air links between Taiwan and mainland China via Macao, and expresses the hope that this can be expanded to implement direct flights between Taiwan and mainland China as soon as possible.