2007

January 2, 2007
During an interview with reporters, a spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council states that Chen Shui-bian's repeated advocacy for the "Taiwan independence" has restricted cross-strait economic exchanges and cooperation, poisoned the atmosphere of cross-strait relations, and undermined the peaceful and stable development of cross-strait relations. Chen Shui-bian has been utterly insincere, untrustworthy, and afraid only of a world without chaos. China is waiting to see how far down the secessionist road of "Taiwan independence" he will go in the end. China will maintain a high vigilance over the trend of "Taiwan independence" secessionist forces; and under no circumstances will China allow such forces to separate Taiwan from the motherland under any name or by any means.

January 4, 2007
At a regular press conference, China's foreign ministry spokesperson Liu Jianchao urges the United States to clearly recognize the political schemes of the Taiwanese authorities, to take practical action with China to clearly oppose and resolutely deter "Taiwan independence" secessionist activities, and to jointly preserve peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and overall relations between China and the U.S. The Chinese government firmly opposes any official exchanges between the U.S. and the Taiwanese authorities. It is consistent and clear. The U.S. should not only abide by the three China-U.S. joint communiques in word, but also take practical actions to observe the one-China policy and oppose "Taiwan independence." The U.S. government should not allow Chen Shui-bian to conduct any activity in the U.S. under any name or pretext.

January 6, 2007
In a meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and Secretary of the Treasury Henry Paulson in Washington, D.C., Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi emphasizes that the Taiwan issue is the most important and most sensitive issue in Sino-U.S. relations. China hopes the United States will fully recognize the complexity and sensitivity of the current cross-Strait situation, adhere to the one-China policy, scrupulously abide by the three China-US joint communiques, and uphold its pledge to oppose "Taiwan independence." He also urges the U.S. side to stop arms sales to and official exchanges with Taiwan, to join with China in firmly opposing and deterring all forms of "Taiwan independence" secessionist activities by Chen Shui-bian's administration, including "de jure Taiwan independence," and to jointly preserve peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and overall relations between China and the U.S.

January 8, 2007
The PRC's Foreign Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Liu Jianchao states that, regarding the report that the U.S. will permit Chen Shui-bian to make a transit stop in the U.S., China has seriously taken up this matter with the U.S. It has demanded that the U.S. strictly abide by the one-China policy, observe the three Sino-U.S. joint communiques and the pledge to oppose "Taiwan independence." The U.S. should not allow Chen Shui-bian to engage in activities in the US under any name or pretext, stop sending any wrong signals to "Taiwan Independence" forces, and take real actions to safeguard the peace and stability across Taiwan Strait as well as the overall interests of China-US relations.

January 17, 2007
In a meeting with representatives of the overseas Chinese community in New York, Taiwan Affairs Office Deputy Director Sun Yafu states that the risky activities engaged in by Chen Shui-bian's administration are aimed at seeking "de jure Taiwan independence" through constitutional reforms, which has posed the biggest threat to cross-strait peace and stability at present.

January 17, 2007
In a meeting in Beijing on the collection of Taiwan historical documents, Jia Qinglin, chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, emphasizes that in recent years the Taiwanese government has planned to gradually achieve de facto Taiwan independence through constitutional reforms. China has specially compiled a volume on the past 400 years of Taiwan's history since the Qing period to enable the world to understand the true relations between Taiwan and China.

January 17, 2007
Director Yang Yi of the Information Bureau of China's Taiwan Affairs Office states that China firmly opposes "Taiwan independence" secessionist activities, continues to develop exchanges and dialogue with political parties in Taiwan that adhere to the "1992 Consensus," oppose "Taiwan independence," and advocate the development of cross-strait relations. China urges the early realization of direct cross-strait transportation links, especially the prompt implementation of weekend and regular charter flights. It is hoped that civilian organizations of both sides can conduct negotiations on this issue as soon as possible according to the existing model.

January 17, 2007
In a meeting with Benita Ferrero-Waldner, the European Commissioner for External Relations and European Neighbourhood Policy, Chinese Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing stresses that properly handing the Taiwan issue is vital to safeguarding the steady development of China-EU relations. China hopes the EU side can make concerted efforts with China to oppose Taiwan independence and jointly safeguard the peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, in the Asia-Pacific region and the world at large.

January 23, 2007
Liu Jianchao, spokesman of the Chinese Foreign Ministry, states that there are two basic principles and conditions for China in improving relations with the Vatican. The first is that the Vatican should sever its "diplomatic ties" with Taiwan, admit that there is only one China in the world, adhere to the one-China policy, and acknowledge that the People's Republic of China is the only legitimate government of China. The second is that the Vatican should refrain from interfering in China's internal affairs on the pretext of religious freedom.

January 24, 2007
At a national meeting of Taiwan Affairs Office directors, Chen Yunlin, director of the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, conveys the Taiwan policy course of the Central Leading Group for Taiwan Affairs. He says that 2007 is a critical year in opposing Taiwan independence and preserving peace in the Taiwan Strait. The most important work of agencies responsible for Taiwan affairs is to staunchly deter Taiwan independence secessionist activities; as well as to continue to maintain peaceful and stable relations across the Taiwan Strait. Other key discussion points at the meeting include how local Taiwan Affairs Offices can expand economic and trade relations with Taiwan, strengthen care and assistance for Taiwanese compatriots, and protect the legitimate rights and interests of Taiwanese compatriots; and how to expand cross-strait personnel contacts as well as the depth and scope of cross-strait exchanges and cooperation. China will seek to achieve new breakthroughs on direct cross-strait charter flights and the opening up of tourism in Taiwan for Chinese residents. The meeting also discusses the problem of Taiwan's economic recession, the approach to increasing China's influence on Taiwan's economy, and the way of resolving the unsalable problem of Taiwan fruit during the peak harvest seasons.

January 29, 2007
At a seminar for the 12th anniversary of the publication of "Continuing Struggle for the Great Mission of Promoting Unification of the Motherland," Vice Chairman Zhou Tienong of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference indicates that staunchly deterring "Taiwan independence" secessionist activities and preserving peace in the Taiwan Strait remain the most important and urgent tasks for compatriots on both sides of the Strait. China will persist in the basic guiding principles of "peaceful unification" and "one country, two systems" and carry out the eight-point proposal on promoting the peaceful unification of the motherland based on the current development of cross-strait relations. China will thoroughly carry out President Hu Jintao's four-point proposal on developing cross-strait relations. China will firmly uphold the theme of peaceful and stable cross-strait development and unwaveringly oppose secession and "Taiwan independence." It will continue to promote civilian exchanges and contacts across the Taiwan Strait and protect the rights and interests of compatriots on both sides; and it will promote the further expansion of contacts and deeper cooperation between compatriots across the Strait.

January 29, 2007
Taiwan Affairs Office spokesperson Yang Yi states that China has taken note of the revision of history textbooks in Taiwan and the attempt thereby to "desinicize" such materials. China declaims the political intentions of this so-called "desinicization" by the Taiwanese authorities, saying such actions are aimed at changing education in Taiwan into so-called "Taiwan independence" thought education.

January 31, 2007
Taiwan Affairs Office spokesperson Yang Yi states that Taiwan is an indivisible part of China. No matter what tricks or means the "Taiwan independence" secessionist forces use, they will not be able to change this fact. China is willing to contact with any person or unit in Taiwan to discuss the development of cross-strait relations and the promotion of peaceful unification so long as they acknowledge the one-China principle and "1992 Consensus."

February 4, 2007
Attending a meeting of the All-China Federation of Returned Overseas Chinese, Wang Zhaoguo, vice-chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, indicates that the overseas Chinese federations at various levels in China need to extensively contact overseas Chinese groups and persons, and especially take the initiative in contacting overseas Chinese persons of Taiwanese origin. They should work hard to unite groups and persons friendly to Taiwan and further deter the influence of "Taiwan independence" separatist forces overseas.

February 5, 2007
During an informal discussion with a visiting Taiwanese delegation of the "Cross-Strait Health Exchange Association," Taiwan Affairs Office Deputy Director Zheng Lizhong states that China will study resolutions to issues facing cross-strait personnel in the areas of medical care, travel and insurance. China will support travel enterprises on both sides to engage in exchanges and cooperation in the areas of travel insurance programs and establish a more convenient cooperation model. China welcomes investment by Taiwan's medical tourism industry. It will also further study and make improvements on issues concerning insurance coverage, medical care and account settlement for Taiwan compatriots.

February 14, 2007
At a press conference, Taiwan Affairs Office spokesperson Li Weiyi states that Chen Shui-bian's administration has taken frequent actions recently to positively promote "desinicization" separatist activities in an attempt to create a social climate for "de jure Taiwan independence." China firmly opposes any attempts by any person in Taiwan to change the fact that China and Taiwan are both parts of one China through name changes and other trickery in cross-strait economic exchange and cooperation and "Mini-Three-Links" affairs.

February 15, 2007
Taiwan Affairs Office Director Chen Yunlin states that in the new year, China's will not waver in its conviction on maintaining the peaceful development of cross-strait relations or in its resolution to promote cross-strait personnel contacts and economic and cultural exchanges. Together with the great number of Taiwanese compatriots, China will tightly encircle the theme of peaceful development of cross-strait relations, firmly uphold stability and peace in the Taiwan Strait, and continue to promote the development of cross-strait relations in the direction of peace, stability, and mutual benefit.

February 28, 2007
At a press briefing, Taiwan Affairs Office spokesperson Li Weiyi states that travel to Taiwan by Chinese residents will only come to fruition when civilian industry organizations on both sides of the Taiwan Strait reach consensus on various issues. Moreover, separate arrangements will be made on the export of natural gravel to Taiwan. China hopes that the related civilian industry organizations on both sides can promptly engage in communication and consultations and reach an arrangement. China also keeps high vigilance over and firmly opposes any separatist activities seeking "de jure Taiwan independence" through so-called "constitutional reforms."

March 1, 2007
Taiwan Affairs Office Spokesperson Li Weiyi states at a press conference that the 228 uprising was a patriotic and democratic self-government movement by Taiwan compatriots in opposition to the despotic rule of the Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT), and as such it is a part of the Chinese people's struggle for liberation. The Taiwan independence separatist forces have intentionally distorted historical facts and made every effort to stir up provincial contradictions, to split Taiwan by playing up ethnic divisions and to create opposing positions in Taiwanese society.

March 2, 2007
Regarding the U.S. announcement that it will sell missiles to Taiwan, China's Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Qin Gang indicates that the missile sale seriously violates the three Sino-U.S. communiques and the pledges made to China under the "August 17" communique in particular. This is rude interference into China's internal affairs. China expresses its strong dissatisfaction and resolute opposition over this and has solemnly negotiated with the United States.

March 2, 2007
China's 10th Cross-Strait Travel Industry Social opens in Chengdu. The opening ceremony is attended by nearly 400 travel industry representatives from Taiwan and officials from China's National Tourism Administration, Taiwan Affairs Office, and related agencies in 31 provinces, cities and regions.

March 4, 2007
In a meeting with U.S. Deputy Secretary of State John Negroponte, Chinese State Councilor Tang Jiaxuan states the activities of Taiwan separatists pose the greatest threat to peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. He hopes the U.S. will keep its promise, not send any wrong signal to the "Taiwan independence" separatist forces and jointly maintain peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait as well as its relationship with China.

March 4, 2007
At the Fifth Session of China's 10th National People's Congress, Spokesperson Jiang Enzhu indicates that relations across the Taiwan Straits will face severe challenges in 2007, as the Taiwan authorities' attempts to seek "de jure independence" through the so-called "constitutional reforms" might enter into a substantive stage. Recent vigorous attempts made by Chen Shui-bian's administration to promote "de-sinicization" moves are aimed at creating a social climate for seeking the "de jure independence" of Taiwan. It is the most important and urgent task for compatriots on both sides of the Strait to resolutely deter the separatist activities of Taiwan independence forces and maintain peace in the Taiwan Strait. China will seek the outcome of peaceful unification with the utmost sincerity and effort. However, it will never tolerate "Taiwan independence," nor will it ever allow any person to separate Taiwan from China by any means.

March 5, 2007
Responsible persons of the Taiwan Work Office of the CPC Central Committee and Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council indicate today that Chen Shui-bian has brazenly stated his separatist "Taiwan independence" position of "four imperatives and one non-issue," purporting that "Taiwan needs to be independent", "Taiwan needs to rectify its name", and "Taiwan needs a new constitution." This is a bald attempt by Chen to agitate for "Taiwan independence" and marks another dangerous step down the separatist road to "Taiwan independence." This demonstrates once again that Chen is absolutely insincere in his "Taiwan independence" attitude. China will seek the peaceful development of cross-strait relations with the utmost sincerity and effort. However, it will never tolerate "Taiwan independence." China will closely watch developments and never allow any person to separate Taiwan from the motherland by any means.

March 5, 2007
In a government work report delivered at the Fifth Session of China's 10th National People's Congress, Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao emphasizes that China must unite with the broad masses of Taiwan compatriots and oppose "de jure Taiwan independence" and all other forms of separatist activities. Based on the "one China" principle, China will continue to enhance dialogue and exchanges with all political parties in Taiwan that advocate the development of cross-strait relations. It will also seek to resume cross-strait dialogue and negotiations at an early time and make efforts to promote and develop cross-strait relations in a peaceful and stable direction.

March 8, 2007
At a panel discussion with members of the Taiwan delegation of China's National People's Congress, Chairman Jia Qinglin of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference indicates that recently the leader of the Taiwan Area has brazenly stated a so-called separatist position that "Taiwan needs to be independent," marking another dangerous step on the road to "Taiwan independence." China will never waver in its resolute opposition to "de jure Taiwan independence" separatist activities and will never allow any person to separate Taiwan from the motherland by any means.

March 11, 2007
On the matter of when China will resume gravel exports to Taiwan, Chinese Minister of Commerce Bo Xilai indicates that China has noted the demands of Taiwan and Hong Kong and hopes to reach a fair and reasonable resolution.

March 14, 2007
Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) Deputy Director Ye Kedong states that, the "four imperatives and one non-issue" recently mentioned by Chen Shui-bian will not affect the opening up of tourism in Taiwan for Chinese tourists.

March 14, 2007
The Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council clarifies that the Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) and Communist Party of China have no important documents to sign regarding cross-strait peace.

March 16, 2007
At a press conference during the Fifth Session of China's 10th National People's Congress, Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao indicates that Beijing strongly opposes "de jure Taiwan independence" and any other forms of secessionist activities. China will keep a close eye on the secessionist attempts and activities conducted by "Taiwan independence" separatist forces. No one will be allowed to change the historic fact that Taiwan has been an inalienable part of China's territory since ancient times and its legal status that has been recognized internationally.

March 16, 2007
From March 20, 2007, China will officially implement zero tariffs on 11 types of vegetables (cabbage, cauliflower, loofah, Chinese mustard, bok choy, balsam pears, onions, carrots, lettuce, taros, and wasabi) and eight types of aquatic product (pomfret, mackerel, hairtail, flounder, herring, perch, shrimp and mussels) imported from Taiwan.

March 19, 2007
The agency responsible for civil aviation in China grants approval for 11 airlines on both sides of the Taiwan Strait to implement a total of 42 flights from Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou to Taipei and Kaohsiung during the Tombsweeping Day period.

March 26, 2007
During a visit to Russia, Chinese President Hu Jintao emphasizes that the main bottleneck obstructing the development of cross-strait relations at present is the Taiwan authorities' refusal to accept the "one China" principle and acknowledge the 1992 Consensus. The Taiwan government has even sought "de jure Taiwan independence" through intensified promotion of "constitutional reforms" with a view to separating Taiwan from China. This is something that all of the Chinese people can never approve.

March 27, 2007
At a regular press conference, China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Qin Gang states that the Chinese government uncompromisingly opposes any official or military ties between Taiwan and countries having diplomatic relations with China.

March 27, 2007
China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Qin Gang states that China firmly opposes the Saint Lucia government's approval for the visit by the so-called "Foreign Minister" of Taiwan. The "one China" principle is an important principle that is universally recognized by the international community. China hopes the Saint Lucia government faithfully abides by the "one China" principle affirmed in the Communique on the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations between China and Saint Lucia to jointly promote the healthy and steady development of China-Saint Lucia relations.

March 28, 2007
Yang Yi, spokesman of the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, states at a press conference that the draft of the so-called "second republic constitution" caters to Chen Shui-bian's conspiracy of "de jure Taiwan independence" and overtly writes in the secessionist assertion of "one country on each side," denying the fact that both the mainland and Taiwan belong to one China. The draft pushes for a new "constitution" under the pretext of freezing the current one. China firmly opposes the scheming of Chen Shui-bian and the Taiwan secessionist forces, which attempt to seek "de jure Taiwan independence" through so-called "constitutional reform." China also will never allow the Taiwan secessionist forces to separate Taiwan from China in any name and by any means. Moreover, it is China's consistent position to welcome contacts with any political party or person that identifies with the "1992 Consensus" and opposes "Taiwanese independence" to exchange views on the development of cross-strait relations. Such persons are welcome to visit China in the proper capacity at a suitable time.

March 29, 2007
In the "Eleventh Five-Year Plan for Ethnic Minority Enterprises" published by the General Office of the State Council, it is stated that enhanced research on ethnic minority peoples in Taiwan and strengthened cultural and educational exchanges with them can increase mutual understanding and friendship between ethnic minority peoples on both sides across the Strait, extensively unite patriots among various circles of minority groups in Taiwan, and thereby contribute to the great task of unifying the motherland.

March 29, 2007
At a regular press conference, China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Qin Gang states that one important basis for China to develop relations with other countries is the one-China principle, which has been universally recognized by the international community. China hopes that relevant countries, including those that have not yet established diplomatic relations with China and those maintaining so-called diplomatic relations with Taiwan, will abide by this principle.

April 5, 2007
China's Ministry of Health and State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine announce that from this year, residents of the Taiwan Area can participate in the qualification examinations for doctors of traditional Chinese medicine. The content, grading curve and fee standards for Taiwanese test takers will be the same as that for Chinese test takers.

April 11, 2007
In a meeting with Japanese Premier Shinzo Abe, Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao states that the Taiwan issue concerns the core interests of China. China will do its utmost to achieve a peaceful settlement of the Taiwan issue, but it is firmly opposed to the "de jure Taiwan independence" attempt by the Taiwanese authorities and all other forms of secessionist activities. China hopes that Japan would realize the high sensitivity of the Taiwan issue, and would keep its promises and handle the issue prudently.

April 11, 2007
Taiwan Affairs Office spokesperson Yang Yi states that the Association of Taiwan Investment Enterprises on the Mainland (ATIEM) will be formally established in Beijing on April 16. If it deems necessary, the ATIEM may, with the consent of the members' representative assembly, invite the leaders of some national ministries and commissions to hold honorary positions in the association and specific positions in advisory and council management agencies and leadership agencies.

April 15, 2007
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Qin Gang states that the World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized United Nations agency, whose membership is only open to sovereign states. Taiwan is simply not qualified to join or apply for membership in the WHO. In recent years, the Taiwanese authorities have time and again put forward Taiwan-related proposals on the World Health Assembly conference, but all such proposals have been thwarted. Whatever means the Taiwanese authorities take, they will not succeed in their schemes to use health issues to serve "Taiwan independence" secessionist activities.

April 16, 2007
During an interview, World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Margaret Chan Fung Fu-chun states that she will abide by the WHO's established policies in handling Taiwan-related issues and adhere to the "one China" principle.

April 24, 2007
Chen Yunlin, director of the State Council's Taiwan Affairs Office, presents a "Report on Protecting the Legitimate Investment Rights of Taiwan Compatriots" to the National People's Congress. The report emphasizes that in the future China will adopt various measures to better protect the legitimate rights of Taiwanese investors.

April 25, 2007
Taiwan Affairs Office spokesperson Yang Yi states at a press briefing that on the issue of sand exports from China to Taiwan, the relevant civilian organizations of both sides across the Strait have exchanged views and reached a certain degree of consensus. China is willing to promptly resume exports of natural sands to Taiwan when the related conditions are ripe.

April 27, 2007
In an announcement on the issue of the Olympic torch's relay through Taiwan, Executive Vice-President Jiang Xiaoyu of the Beijing Organizing Committee for the Games of the XXIX Olympiad (BOCOG) states that the planned route of the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games torch relay has been approved by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the arrangement of the route strictly follows the Olympic Charter and the relevant rules and regulations of the IOC. The BOCOG recently learned from media reports about the attitude and related statements of the Taiwanese authorities and the Chinese Taipei Olympic Committee of not accepting the planned route of the 2008 Olympic torch, and it was surprised by this.

April 28, 2007
Attending the plenary meeting of the Third Cross-Strait Economic, Trade and Cultural Forum, Chinese President Hu Jintao expresses his hope that cross-strait personal contacts and economic and cultural exchanges and cooperation can be promoted so as to deter "Taiwan independence" secessionist activities and maintain peace in the Taiwan Strait.

April 28, 2007
The Third Cross-Strait Economic, Trade and Cultural Forum jointly held by the Research Center for Relations across the Taiwan Straits under the Taiwan Work Office of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and National Politics Research Fund of the Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) opens. In his opening address, Jia Qinglin, standing member of the Politburo of the CPC Central Committee indicates:
Firstly, both sides across the Strait should seize the opportune moment to vigorously promote progress on direct cross-strait transportation links.
Secondly, both sides should engage in pragmatic negotiations to realize the objective of opening up tourism in Taiwan for Chinese tourists as soon as possible.
Thirdly, both sides should expand and deepen cross-strait educational exchanges and cooperation to meet the needs of young people.
Fourthly, both sides should deepen exchanges and jointly promote the outstanding traditions of Chinese culture.

April 29, 2007
Responsible persons of the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Public Security, Ministry of Personnel, Ministry of Communications, General Administration of Civil Aviation of China and National Tourism Administration announce 13 policy measures at the close of the Third Cross-Strait Economic, Trade and Cultural Forum:

Institutions of higher education in the Taiwan Area are welcome to recruit Chinese students.
From May 15, 2007, Guangzhou, Qingdao and Wuhan will be added as cities allowed to issue landing visas for Taiwan visitors to China.
China will allow Taiwanese residents to participate in the qualification examinations for an additional 15 types of professional and technical personnel.
Taiwan enterprises are encouraged to directly invest in the construction and operation of ports and road projects in China.
Taiwanese shipping and road transportation enterprises will be allowed to directly establish in China sole venture enterprises in the shipping, container shipment services, cargo storage, container station, international port management, non-vessel-operating common carrier service, road transportation, and automotive maintenance sectors, as well as joint ventures in the international shipping agency and road passenger transportation sectors.
Taiwan shipping companies, engaged in direct passenger transportation between coastal cities in Fujian and Kinmen, Matsu and Penghu in Taiwan, are allowed to set up agencies and sell tickets in China.
Taiwanese sailors and divers are exempted from examination and certification fees to facilitate their training and certification.
China will support and encourage exchanges and cooperation between civilian professional organizations on both sides in cross-strait ocean rescue and salvage operations.
A second batch of flight points will gradually be opened up for direct charter flights.
Taiwanese civilian aircraft that encounter in-flight emergencies can arrange, through the effective contact channels established between civilian airlines on both sides of the Taiwan Strait, to land at China's airports that are open to the outside.
From May 1, 2007, all Taiwanese airlines operating cross-strait charter flights can set up business offices or representative offices at all flight points in China open to such flights.
Taiwan's airline companies are encouraged and will be supported to intensify partnerships with Chinese counterparts in aircraft maintenance, cargo storage, ground service agency, market development, commercial operations, code sharing, strategic alliances, and network extension.
Taiwan students are welcome to study in China's civil aviation schools and aircraft maintenance technicians are welcome to work in China.

April 29, 2007
At the closing ceremony of the Third Cross-Strait Economic, Trade and Cultural Forum, China's National Tourism Administration Director Shao Qiwei states that civilian tourism organizations in China and Taiwan have conducted five rounds of technical discussions and reached consensus on many issues related to forms of travel, tour group size, daily quotas for Chinese tourists to Taiwan, allowed period of stay in Taiwan, areas open to travel, regulations for maintaining market order, protection of rights and interests, dispute settlement, recognition and verification of documentation, tourism charter flights, and mutual establishment of offices. However, the discussion process was interfered with by the Taiwanese authorities, which led to sharp differences on certain issues between both sides across the Strait. Chinese residents traveling to Taiwan are not taking "country-to-country trips." April 29, 2007
The following proposals are raised at the "Third Cross-Strait Economic, Trade and Cultural Forum" held by the Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) and the Communist Party of China (CPC):

To promote direct cross-strait air transportation links and the exchanges and cooperation between the aviation industries across the Strait, including cooperation on the arrangement for weekend and regular charter flights
To promote cross-strait cooperation on sea transportation and rescue operations
To continue expanding the scope and depth of direct contacts between the Fujian coastal region and Kinmen, Matsu and Penghu
To actively promote cross-strait educational exchanges and cooperation, including full development of cross-strait exchanges in the areas of kindergarten education, basic education, occupational skill education, higher education, and continuing education
To continue to promote the realization of allowing Chinese residents to make tourist visits to Taiwan
To promote the peaceful development of cross-strait relations

May 1, 2007
In response to a reporter's question about the resumption of diplomatic relations between Saint Lucia and Taiwan, China's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Liu Jianchao states that the move openly violates the joint communique on the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Saint Lucia and peremptorily interferes in China's internal affairs. China expresses its outrage and opposition on this matter.

May 8, 2007
At a regular press briefing, China's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Jiang Yu states that cooperation between the U.S. and Japan should be conducive to peace, stability, and development in the Asia-Pacific region. The Taiwan issue pertains to China's sovereignty and territorial integrity. It is a domestic affair of China, and China will not allow any country to use any excuse for interfering in the Taiwan issue.

May 12, 2007
Quanzhou Television Station officially begins broadcasting a general TV channel with programming entirely in the Min Nan dialect, becoming the first channel of its kind in China.

May 13, 2007
Ye Kedong, deputy director of the Taiwan Affairs Office of China's State Council, states that, to date, Taiwanese reporters have made over 14,000 person-trips to China.

May 13, 2007
The Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council officially approves the establishment of a cross-strait aquatics products processing and distribution center in Dongshan County, Fujian Province.

May 14, 2007
At the opening ceremony of the 60th World Health Assembly (WHA) in Geneva, Gao Qiang, the chief delegate for China, delivers a speech stating that the Taiwanese authorities, acting on their own political needs and using the health and welfare of the Taiwanese people and global epidemic control as a pretext, have instigated a small minority of countries to raise a proposal at this year's WHA to let Taiwan become a "member country" of the World Health Organization (WHO). This proposal thoroughly exposes the Taiwanese authorities' pretext of "protecting the health of the people" and reveals their political ambition to divide China. The proposal is not focused on the wellbeing of the Taiwanese people, but on vainly seeking "Taiwan independence" in the international arena. This proposal disregards the UN Charter and the WHO Constitution, violates the resolutions of the UN General Assembly and the WHA, challenges the internationally-acknowledged "one China" principle, sabotages the consensus of the WHA of the past 10 consecutive years, and seriously hurts the feelings of the member states.

May 14, 2007
The Chinese government issues a declaration that the International Health Regulations (2005), which officially come into effect on June 15, 2007, will apply to the entire territory of China, including Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan.

May 15, 2007
Regarding the rejection of the Taiwan-related proposal by the 60th World Health Assembly, China's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Jiang Yu states that the Taiwan authorities' attempt to use the health card as a way of internationally seeking a political agenda of "de jure Taiwan independence" will never succeed. The World Health Organization is a specialized UN agency whose membership is only open to sovereign states, and Taiwan is fundamentally not eligible to join it.

May 15, 2007
In a meeting with a delegation of the National Women's League of the ROC, Chen Yunlin, director of Taiwan Affairs Office under the State Council, indicates that at present, the source of tensions in cross-strait relations has not been eliminated. The risky and dangerous attempts by Taiwanese leaders to pass "constitutional reforms" and seek "de jure Taiwan independence" through a public referendum still exist. China hopes that compatriots on both sides of the Taiwan Strait will jointly oppose and deter "Taiwan independence" and maintain peace in the Taiwan Strait.

May 15, 2007
In a meeting with a delegation of the National Women's League of the ROC, Jia Qinglin, member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), remarks that compatriots on both sides of the Taiwan Strait should firmly oppose and deter "Taiwan independence" to achieve the goal of peaceful development of cross-strait relations and eliminate the biggest source of tension and unrest in the Taiwan Strait. They should also firmly uphold the "1992 Consensus" to lay a joint political foundation.

May 16, 2007
At a press briefing, Taiwan Affairs Office Spokesperson Li Weiyi indicates that the refusal of the Taiwan authorities to acknowledge the "1992 Consensus" has made it impossible for cross-strait negotiations to resume and move forward. Through the vigorous promotion of civilian industry organizations on both sides, the time is right to start weekend and regular charter flights and facilitate cross-strait cargo charter flights.

May 16, 2007
The Beijing Organizing Committee for the Games of the XXIX Olympiad (BOCOG) officially releases the "Guidebook for the Press Services of Taiwan Reporters during the Period of the Beijing Olympic Games and its Preparation." The guidebook covers over 10 matters, including matters pertaining to Taiwanese media registered to cover the Olympic Games, such as rights-holding radio and television broadcasting organizations, registered print media, and photographic media; as well as general items of attention for unregistered media organizations, such as customs procedures, radio frequency coordination, hiring personnel, rental housing, and temporary drivers licenses.

May 18, 2007
Zheng Lizhong, deputy director of Taiwan Affairs Office under the State Council, states that the issue of cross-strait tourism involves not only the names to be used in the agreement. China's political position on cross-strait relations has always been that relations between China and Taiwan are relations within one country.

May 18, 2007
The Ninth Cross-Straits Economic and Trade Fair and Fourth China (Fujian) Commodities Fair commence in Fuzhou.

May 22, 2007
At the closing of a conference of Communist Party of China (CPC) delegates of Taiwan origin, Jia Qinglin, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), states that "Taiwan independence" secessionist activities are still rampant and the situation in the Taiwan Strait is still grim and complicated. In particular, the Taiwanese authorities are intensifying efforts to pass the so-called "constitutional reforms" and public referendums to further their "de jure Taiwan independence" activities and attempts to split Taiwan from China. This is the most serious, dangerous and urgent issue facing peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. Staunchly opposing and containing "Taiwan independence" secessionist activities is the most important mission in China's Taiwan work at present. China must firmly seize the subject of the peaceful development of cross-strait relations; continue to thoroughly carry out the policy of "placing hope on the Taiwanese people"; promote cross-strait personnel contacts, economic and cultural exchanges, and progress on opening up direct cross-strait "three links"; continue to develop exchanges and dialogue with political parties in Taiwan that oppose "Taiwan independence" and advocate the development of cross-strait relations; unite with all forces that can be united and mobilize all active elements to jointly deter "Taiwan independence" separatist activities and firmly curb "de jure Taiwan independence"; and never allow "Taiwan independence" separatist forces to divide Taiwan from China under any name or by any means.

May 24, 2007
During an informal discussion with overseas Chinese in London, Taiwan Affairs Office Deputy Director Wang Fuqing indicates that peaceful development should become a subject of cross-strait relations. It is necessary to resolutely uphold the "one China" principle; to firmly oppose and deter "Taiwan independence" secessionist activities; and to further expand civilian exchanges and cooperation across the Strait. These objectives all depend on the joint efforts of compatriots on both sides of the Taiwan Strait and all the sons and daughters of the Chinese nation around the world.

May 24, 2007
At the 10th anniversary conference of the China Overseas Friendship Association (COFA), Lin Wenyi, chairman of the Central Committee of China's Taiwan Democratic Self-Government League and vice president of COFA, expresses hope that a southern Fujian cultural preservation area can promptly be established to initiate special projects on the preservation and utilization of Taiwanese cultural relics.

May 28, 2007
In a meeting with George Schwab, president of the National Committee on American Foreign Policy, Chinese State Councilor Tang Jiaxuan emphasizes his hope that the U.S. will practically carry out and firmly adhere to the one-China policy, support China's efforts in improving and developing cross-strait relations and take substantive, effective measures to stop Chen Shui-bian's provocative and risky activities aimed at "Taiwan independence."

May 28, 2007
China's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Jiang Yu expresses strong dissatisfaction over the U.S. Department of Defense regarding its annual report on China's military power. She says that Taiwan is an inalienable part of Chinese territory and China firmly opposes any country that interferes in its internal affairs through any means.

May 29, 2007
Regarding the recent resolution adopted by the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) to resume China's rights as a member state, China's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Jiang Yu states that the resolution reiterates the one-China policy and resumes the legal rights of China as a sovereign country, while allowing Taiwan to continue taking part in the organization's activities as a non-sovereign regional member. This shows that the international community universally supports the "one China" principle. She also indicates that China has lodged a stern representation to Japan over a visit by Lee Teng-hui to Japan and expresses hope that Japan would not a provide a political arena for pro-independence separatist forces in Taiwan.

May 30, 2007
At a press briefing, Taiwan Affairs Office Spokesperson Li Weiyi states that Chen Shui-bian's and the Democratic Progressive Party's promotion of a public referendum on applying for UN membership under the name of "Taiwan" is in fact a scheme to change the position of Taiwan and separate Taiwan from China.

May 30, 2007
Song Dexing, director general of the Department of Water Transportation and director of the Taiwan Affairs Office under the Ministry of Communications, indicates that China will encourage more Taiwanese enterprises and businesspeople to participate in the construction and operation of Chinese ports and highways. The Chinese government is also willing to open China's transportation market to Taiwanese shipping and road transportation enterprises. Taiwanese enterprises can also form joint venture companies with Chinese counterparts in the international shipping agency and road passenger transportation sectors. China also supports and encourages civilian professional organizations on both sides of the Taiwan Strait to jointly develop technology and information exchanges in the areas of sea rescue and fishing.

June 1, 2007
In a meeting with visiting delegates of the Chinese American Alliance for China's Peaceful Reunification in America, Chinese State Councilor Tang Jiaxuan states that Chen Shui-bian's conspiracy of seeking "de jure Taiwan independence" through so-called "constitutional reform" has taken a new direction and is getting more dangerous and risky. He hopes that overseas Chinese as well as compatriots across the Taiwan Strait will hold firmly to the theme of peaceful development of cross-strait relations, stand firmly against the "Taiwan independence" secessionist activities of Chen Shui-bian's administration, and make an even greater contribution to promoting the peaceful and stable development of cross-strait relations and progress in unifying the motherland.

June 2, 2007
In response to the international community's doubts over the large increase in China's military spending, Zhang Qinsheng, deputy chief of the General Staff of the People's Liberation Army (PLA), emphasizes at the 6th Asia Security Summit held in Singapore that the PLA needs to be prepared for the threat of Taiwan seeking de jure independence.

June 2, 2007
In a meeting with U.S. Vice President and President of the U.S. Senate Dick Cheney, Sheng Huaren, vice-chairman of the Standing Committee of China's National People's Congress, expresses hope that the U.S. will scrupulously abide by its pledges to China and join China in firmly opposing and stopping "Taiwan independence" so as to maintain peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and Sino-U.S. relations.

June 4, 2007
An editorial in the People's Liberation Army Daily indicates that China's limited military deployment in the Taiwan Strait is but a precaution against reckless moves by Taiwan independence forces.

June 10, 2007
Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) Deputy Director Ye Kedong states in a speech delivered at the "Symposium on Promoting the Peaceful Unification of China" in Hong Kong that Chen Shui-bian's government is now intensifying its promotion of "constitutional reform" in an attempt to seek "de jure Taiwan independence." It is also promoting a referendum on whether Taiwan should seek UN membership under the name of "Taiwan" in an attempt to change Taiwan's position and separate Taiwan from China.

June 12, 2007
China's Ministry of Personnel and State Council Taiwan Affairs Office jointly issue a "Circular on Issues Related to the Opening of Some Qualifying Examinations for Professional Technical Personnel to Taiwanese Residents." The circular states that 15 types of qualifying examinations for professional technical personnel will be opened to Taiwanese residents starting in 2007.

June 13, 2007
China's Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) Spokesperson Yang Yi indicates at a TAO press conference that Chen Shui-bian's administration is promoting a "referendum" on whether Taiwan should seek UN membership under the name of "Taiwan" in an attempt to change the status quo of the mainland and Taiwan both being a part of "one China." It is also a major step towards "de jure Taiwan independence" and a "referendum on unification or independence" in a different form. The so-called "Second Republic Constitution Draft" caters to Chen Shui-bian's scheme to seek "de jure Taiwan independence." In an attempt to create national division, it seeks to incorporate the "one country on each side" separatist position and deny the fact that the mainland and Taiwan are both part of one China. China will monitor the situation closely and will not allow the Taiwanese secessionists to split Taiwan from China in any form or by any means.

June 19, 2007
At a regular press conference, China's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Qin Gang states that Chen Shui-bian is attempting to join the UN under the name of Taiwan and hold a combined referendum to seek to change the fact that both the mainland and Taiwan belong to one China. This attempt is also a major move towards de jure Taiwan independence. China is firmly against "Taiwan independence" and will not allow anyone to separate Taiwan from China by any means.

June 21, 2007
China's Taiwan Affairs Office Deputy Director Wang Zaixi stresses at the "Third World Gathering of Overseas Chinese Associations" that China firmly opposes actions by Chen Shui-bian's administration to seek de jure Taiwan independence by constitutional reform, referendums or any other means. China has the determination, the ability, and the preparedness to block any major incident on Taiwan independence or leading to Taiwan independence.

June 27, 2007
China's Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) Spokesperson Yang Yi indicates at a TAO press conference that China is willing to prioritize discussing a common market once negotiations are resumed on the basis of the 1992 Consensus. Over the 10 years since Hong Kong's handover, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government has appropriately handled Hong Kong-Taiwan relations and affairs involving national sovereignty and cross-strait relations according to the Basic Law and the basic principles and policies of the Central Peoples' Government regarding Hong Kong's handling of Taiwan-related issues after 1997. Yang also announces that the Cross-Strait Agricultural Exchange Association and the Taiwan Farmers' Association are holding the 2007 Touring Exhibition of High-quality Taiwan Agricultural Products from July 20 to 25 in Shanghai, Nanjing, Fuzhou, Wuhan, and Dalian.

June 30, 2007
At a press conference, China's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Qin Gang states that China has always maintained a consistent position on improving China-Vatican relations. The Vatican must sever its so-called diplomatic ties with Taiwan, recognize the People's Republic of China as the sole legitimate government representing the whole of China, and never interfere in China's internal affairs, even in the name of religion.

July 5, 2007
China's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Qin Gang states that China has demanded that the U.S. honor its commitments to the "one China" policy, abide by the three China-US joint communiques and oppose "Taiwan independence," prevent Annette Lu from conducting any form of secessionist activities in the U.S., and stop sending wrong signals to "Taiwan independence" forces so as to safeguard the stability across the Taiwan Strait and the overall situation of China-US relations.

July 5, 2007
China's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Qin Gang states at a regular press conference that China hopes for the continuation and development of the current positive momentum in China-Japan relations. As an important precondition, Japan must appropriately deal with the Taiwan question because this is the political foundation of bilateral relations. China hopes that Japan will fulfill its commitment made in the three China-Japan political documents.

July 6, 2007
The Fujian branch of the China Development Bank and the Fujian Provincial Department of Foreign Trade and Economic Cooperation jointly sign a financial cooperation framework agreement. Under the agreement, the China Development Bank will support infrastructure development and the development of Taiwanese-invested enterprises in four Taiwanese investment zones in Fujian Province.

July 17, 2007
Li Bingcai, executive deputy chairman of the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait, states at the 12th Cross-Strait Academic Symposium on China's Modernization that Chen Shui-bian's government continues to insist on a radical "Taiwan independence" line and intensify the promotion of "Taiwan independence" secessionist activities. He further contends that the Chen administration is increasing its endorsement of a referendum on applying for UN membership under the name of "Taiwan." This referendum, he claims, is an important step in Chen Shui-bian's attempt to change the status quo in which the Mainland and Taiwan are both parts of "one China" and move towards de jure Taiwan independence; this is a referendum on unification versus independence in a different guise. This is the most critical, dangerous and urgent issue presently facing peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. China will never tolerate "Taiwan independence" and it will not allow any person to separate Taiwan from China by any means.

July 19, 2007
The 2nd "Two Hundred" Forum of Counties and Cities across the Taiwan Strait is held in Qingdao. The forum is attended by over 100 councillors from 19 counties and cities in the Taiwan Area and 100 county and city deputies of the National People's Congress from Shandong, Jiangsu, Shanghai, Zhejiang and Fujian.

July 20, 2007
At a press conference, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Liu Jianchao states that according to Article 4 of the UN Charter, rule 58 of the provisional rules of procedure of the Security Council, and rule 134 of the rules of procedure of the UN General Assembly, only sovereign states can apply for UN membership. There is but one China in the world within which Taiwan is an integral part. The government of the People's Republic of China is the sole legitimate government representing the whole of China. This position, universally held by the international community, is completely in line with the UN Charter and has been confirmed by UN General Assembly Resolution 2758.

July 23, 2007
Chinese UN Ambassador Wang Guangya states at a press conference that Taiwan's application to join the UN under the name of "Taiwan" is an absurd and blatant separatist move towards "Taiwan independence" against which the Chinese government is firmly opposed. The Chinese government emphasizes that there is only one China in the world and Taiwan is an inalienable part of the Chinese territory. The government of the People's Republic of China is not only the sole legitimate government representing the whole of China, but also the sole legitimate representative in the UN, which is a position widely held by the international community, totally in line with the UN Charter, and recognized by Resolution 2758 of the UN General Assembly. Taiwan has no qualification whatsoever to join the UN under any name or in any way since statehood is required for membership of the UN.

July 24, 2007
Officials of China's Taiwan Affairs Office of the CPC Central Committee and Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council issue a statement regarding the rejection and return of the letter of application to join the UN under the name of "Taiwan" that Chen Shui-bian sent to the UN Secretary General. It states that the Chen government's promotion of Taiwan's UN membership under the name of "Taiwan" is another critical step towards secessionist activities. Both the UN membership application and the promotion of a referendum on UN membership are important steps in the Chen administration's attempts to change the status quo in which the Mainland and Taiwan are both part of one China and move towards de jure Taiwan independence. Such measures are directed domestically at promoting a "Taiwan independence constitution" and internationally at creating conditions for gaining recognition by the international community.

July 25, 2007
The Taiwan Work Office of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and a visiting mission of the Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT)'s service and liaison center for China-based Taiwanese businesspeople hold a third work meeting on protecting the legitimate rights and interests of Taiwanese businesspeople in China. The two sides reach a consensus on creating a sound mechanism to protect the legitimate rights and interests of Taiwanese compatriots, to create a reporting mechanism to properly resolve cases involving Taiwanese businesspeople, and to promote cross-strait exchange and cooperation in the area of intellectual property rights.

July 31, 2007
Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi states in Manila that Taiwan's intensified efforts to hold a referendum on UN membership will severely damage the sovereignty and territorial integrity of China, severely impinge cross-strait ties, and badly jeopardize the peace and stability of the cross-strait and Asia-Pacific regions. He emphasizes that Chen Shui-bian's government has recently intensified attempts to hold a referendum on UN membership under the name of "Taiwan." This is an important step towards de jure Taiwan independence. Its essence is to change the status of Taiwan's position as a part of the Chinese territory and to split Taiwan from China.

July 31, 2007
The 16th Seminar on Cross-Strait Relations is held in Kunming, Yunnan Province with "Building Peaceful and Stable Development of Cross-strait Relations" as its theme. At the seminar, Vice Chairman Wang Zaixi of the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS) reiterates that China will never allow any person by any means to split Taiwan from the motherland. China is also determined, confident, and able to crush all "Taiwan independence" secessionist schemes.

July 31, 2007
At a reception for the 80th anniversary of the People's Liberation Army, Chinese Defense Minister Cao Gangchuan states that China is determined, able, and ready to deter "Taiwan independence" as well as any major incidents leading to "Taiwan independence," and will firmly defend the integrity of China's national sovereignty and territory.

August 1, 2007
Chinese Ambassador to the United Nations (UN) Wang Guangya states that there is only one China in the world. Taiwan is an indivisible part of the Chinese territory. The People's Republic of China (PRC) is the only legal government representing all of China. UN Resolution No. 2758 affirms that the government of the PRC is the only legal representative of China in the UN. China's representation in the UN naturally includes Taiwan.

August 2, 2007
China's Foreign Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Liu Jianchao states that the Taiwanese authorities' "application to join the United Nations under the name of Taiwan" is absurd. According to the Charter of the United Nations (UN) and procedural rules of the UN Security Council and General Assembly, only a sovereign country can apply to become a member of the UN.

August 2, 2007
At an ASEAN Regional Forum in Manila, China's Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi states that the Taiwan issue pertains to the core interests of China. China will never permit any form of "Taiwan independence" separatist activities and will never allow Taiwan to be divided from China.

August 16, 2007
At a press conference, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Jiang Yu states that Taiwan has been an inalienable part of the Chinese territory since ancient times. Both the Cairo Declaration and the Potsdam Proclamation confirmed China's sovereignty over Taiwan. United Nations Resolution 2758 stipulated clearly that the government of the People's Republic of China is the sole legal representative of China in the United Nations. More than 160 countries in the world have established diplomatic ties with China. They all recognize that there is but one China in the world and that Taiwan is part of China.

August 20, 2007
The immigration control department of the Fujian Public Security Bureau officially authorized the Entry and Exit Visa Administrative Office of the Xiamen Public Security Bureau to produce "Taiwan Travel Permits for Mainland Residents" to enable mainlanders to apply to travel to Kinmen.

August 21, 2007
In an interview with the Central News Agency at the opening ceremony of the 6th Liaoning Taiwan Week, Chen Yunlin, director of the Taiwan Affairs Office under China's State Council, states that China will not change its Taiwan policy of "separating politics and economics," even if Taiwan holds a referendum on joining the United Nations.

August 26, 2007
At the "First Cross-Strait Enterprise Innovation and Development Forum" in Beidaihe, Zheng Lizhong, deputy director of the Taiwan Affairs Office under China's State Council, states that Taiwan's planned referendum on its bid to join the United Nations (UN) is the most destabilizing factor challenging cross-strait peace. He indicates that current Taiwan independence separatist activities are the greatest threat to peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. Intensified promotion of the planned referendum on UN membership by some people in Taiwan is provoking and creating antagonism between both sides of the Taiwan Strait.

August 28, 2007
Japan's Asahi Shimbun reports that between April and May, 2007, China's naval fleet twice crossed through Taiwan's eastern ocean territory, sailing from the East China Sea past Miyako-jima and Ryukyu Island to the Pacific en route to the South China Sea. The voyage was probably directed against Taiwan's naval training exercises and also meant as an external show of force.

August 29, 2007
At a press conference, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Liu Jianchao states that China applauds the United States government for having reiterated its opposition to Taiwan authorities' decision to hold a referendum on Taiwan's bid to join the United Nations on many occasions recently. Opposing and deterring "Taiwan independence" is of vital significance to safeguard peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and the Asia-Pacific region at large, and it is also in the mutual interests of the US and China.

August 29, 2007
At the "Jiangxi-Taiwan Economic and Trade Cooperation Symposium" held in Nanchang, Zheng Lizhong, deputy director of the Taiwan Affairs Office under China's State Council, expresses hopes that the vast majority of Taiwanese compatriots will join China in deterring the "referendum on membership in the United Nations" and other forms of "Taiwan independence" separatist activities and safeguarding peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.

September 1, 2007
China's Vice Minister of Health Ma Xiaowei welcomes Taiwanese organizations, enterprises and individuals to invest in the establishment of health institutions in China.

September 1, 2007
Tang Wei, director general of the Department of Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macao Affairs of the Chinese Ministry of Commerce, states that as Taiwanese businesspeople increase investment in China's manufacturing industry, so also are they becoming a greater investment force in China's first and third industries.

September 4, 2007
At a press briefing, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Jiang Yu indicates that to oppose and deter "Taiwan independence" is in the mutual interest of China and the US. China hopes the US can abide by the "one China" principle, the three Sino-US joint communiques, and its commitment to opposing Taiwan independence so as to make joint efforts with China to safeguard peace and stability across the Strait and the overall China-US relations.

September 5, 2007
Dai Xiaofeng, director-general of the Exchange Bureau of the Chinese State Council's Taiwan Affairs Office, states in an interview with Xinhua News Agency that China has offered 54 preferential policy measures for Taiwan since 2005.

September 6, 2007
In a meeting with U.S. President George Bush in Sydney, Australia, Chinese President Hu Jintao states that 2007 and 2008 will be a highly dangerous period for the cross-strait situation. The Taiwanese authorities have ignored warnings and brazenly promoted the "referendum on Taiwan's bid to join the United Nations (UN)," "application to join the UN," and other secessionist "Taiwan independence" activities. China must give Taiwan an even stronger warning. Any form of "Taiwan independence" secessionist activity is bound to fail.

September 6, 2007
In a meeting with Taiwanese business representatives in Xiamen, Chinese Vice Premier Wu Yi expresses three hopes and demands regarding the promotion of cross-strait economic relations and the maintenance of peaceful development of cross-strait relations: 1. To maintain the overall peaceful development in cross-strait relations with one heart and one mind; 2. To deepen cooperation on promoting the continued sound development of cross-strait economic and trade relations; and 3. To fulfill promises to protect the legitimate rights and interests of Taiwanese businesspeople.

September 6, 2007
In an interview with the Fujian Daily, Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) Deputy Director Zheng Lizhong states that the TAO will continue to support the establishment of an Economic Zone on the West Coast of the Taiwan Strait and to support the strengthening and expansion of exchanges and cooperation between Fujian and Taiwan.

September 6, 2007
Tourism departments in Fujian Province indicate that Taiwanese compatriots have made 7.36 million person-trips to Fujian since Taiwan began allowing family-related visits to China in 1987. This is the highest number of Taiwanese visitors received by any Chinese province.

September 6, 2007
Responding to a question from the press, Jiang Xiaoyu, executive vice-president of the Beijing Organizing Committee for the Games of the XXIX Olympiad (BOCOG), states that according to the BOCOG's plan announced on April 26, 2007, the Olympic Torch relay route should be categorized into the domestic portion of the relay and the overseas portion of the relay. The overseas Torch relay route is scheduled to pass through 22 cities, including Taipei.

September 6, 2007
At the opening ceremony for the Third Cross-Strait Travel Fair, China's National Tourism Administration Director Shao Qiwei announces that civilian tourism organizations in Fujian Province will soon invite their Penghu counterparts to hold talks on "Penghu travel."

September 6, 2007
In a meeting with representatives of Taiwan's travel industry at the Third Cross-Strait Travel Fair, Taiwan Affairs Office Deputy Director Zheng Lizhong says that the Taiwan authorities have intentionally used the Shin Kong Place incident to alienate the feelings of the people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait.

September 7, 2007
At a regular press conference, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Jiang Yu states that the vast majority of African countries stick to the "one China" principle. The Taiwan-Africa Summit to be held on September 9, 2007
does not enjoy popular support.

September 8, 2007
Responding to a question from the press on the Taiwan-Africa Summit, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Jiang Yu indicates that the real purpose of the Chen Shui-bian administration in hosting the summit, the Taiwan-Africa Progress Partnership Forum, and a summit of African industrial and business leaders is to carry out "Taiwan independence" secessionist activities internationally, further intensify Taiwan's "money diplomacy," and undermine Sino-African friendship. China strongly opposes this.

September 12, 2007
At a press conference, Taiwan Affairs Office Spokesperson Li Weiyi states that Chen Shui-bian's attempt to change the status quo in which "both sides of the Strait belong to one China" by passing a "referendum on UN membership" is a Taiwan independence action, so of course the one responsible is Chen Shui-bian. Furthermore, no new demands or condition have been raised between the Beijing Organizing Committee for the Games of the XXIX Olympiad and the Taiwan's Chinese Taipei Olympic Committee regarding the Olympic Torch relay route through Taiwan. Rather, it is the Taiwan side alone that is trying to overturn the consensus reached between the two sides in February this year. China hopes that the Taiwan authorities will not create new political obstacles in this matter.

September 13, 2007
At a regular press conference, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Jiang Yu states that the US government has reiterated on many occasions its position recently on pursuing the "one China" policy, abiding by the three China-US joint communiques, as well as opposing Taiwan's referendum on UN membership. Beijing hopes the US honor its commitment to China on the Taiwan issue and join hand in hand with China to maintain peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and the general interest of Sino-US relations.

September 13, 2007
At a welcome reception hosted by the Japan-China Friendship Association, Jia Qinglin, chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, emphasizes that the Chen Shui-bian administration has ignored the strong opposition of the international community by insisting on promoting a referendum on Taiwan's bid to join the United Nations (UN), applying for Taiwan's membership in the UN under the name of "Taiwan," and engaging in other "Taiwan independence" secessionist activities. This has seriously challenged the peace and stability of cross-strait relations and the Taiwan Strait area. China genuinely hopes that the government and people of Japan will clearly recognize the nature and harm of "Taiwan independence" secessionist forces, and will work together with the international community in jointly sending a clear message of opposition to "Taiwan independence" to maintain peace and stability in the region.

September 15, 2007
At the opening ceremony of the 9th World Chinese Entrepreneurs Convention, Jia Qinglin, chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, states that the Chen Shui-bian administration has intensified its promotion of a referendum on United Nations (UN) membership, application for Taiwan's membership in the UN under the name of "Taiwan," and engagement in other "Taiwan independence" secessionist activities with the aim of dividing Taiwan from China, which has seriously threatened peace in the Taiwan Strait. China continues to carry through with its major policy decisions on Taiwan-related work. It firmly opposes any change to one China and will never compromise on its opposition to "Taiwan independence" secessionist activities. China staunchly opposes "Taiwan independence" secessionist activities in any form and will unceasingly promote personal, economic and cultural exchanges across the Taiwan Strait.

September 16, 2007
Responding to remarks made by Taiwan President Chen Shui-bian during a march held by the Democratic Progressive Party, a spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) of China's State Council states that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China. Under the major principles of safeguarding national sovereignty and territorial integrity and deterring secessionist activities, China will never waver, compromise, equivocate over or allow any person to separate Taiwan from the motherland by any means.

September 16, 2007
At a press briefing, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Jiang Yu states that China hopes the US will strictly abide by its solemn commitment on the Taiwan issue with concrete actions, immediately cancel the special plans of arms sales to Taiwan, stop selling weapons to Taiwan, cut off military links with Taiwan and stop sending any wrong signals to secessionist forces advocating "Taiwan independence."

September 17, 2007
The Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) of China's State Council holds the 2007 leaders' meeting of the Association of Taiwan Compatriots' Investment Enterprises.

September 19, 2007
At a meeting of the United Nations (UN) General Committee, China's UN Ambassador Wang Guangya states that there is but one China in the world and Taiwan is an inalienable part of China. UN General Assembly Resolution No. 2758, adopted in 1971, explicitly stipulates that the People's Republic of China is the only legitimate representative of China to the United Nations.

September 20, 2007
Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Jiang Yu states that the General Committee of the 62nd Session of the UN General Assembly refuses to include the proposal of the so-called "Taiwan's bid to join the UN" into the agenda of the 62nd UN General Assembly. It proves again that no one could change the fact that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China. Any action that runs counter to the UN Charter and Resolution 2758 of the UN General Assembly will never be supported by the vast majority of the UN members. Any attempt that defies the "one China" principle and aims at splitting China is doomed to failure.

September 21, 2007
China's ambassador to the United Nations (UN) Wang Guangya emphasizes in remarks to the UN General Assembly that the UN is an intergovernmental organization that only sovereign countries can join. Taiwan is a part of China and therefore does not qualify for membership in the UN. Any sovereign country in the world would not agree to allow a domestic region of its own to join the United Nations. This fact is also applicable to those that raised the motion for Taiwan's UN membership.

September 21, 2007
Jiang Xiaoyu, executive vice-president of the Beijing Organizing Committee for the Games of the XXIX Olympiad (BOCOG), announces that since the Chinese Taipei Olympic Committee has unilaterally terminated negotiations on the Olympic Torch relay route through Taiwan, the International Olympic Committee has officially notified the BOCOG to cancel the Torch relay route through Taiwan. It is the Taiwan authorities that should take full responsibility for not allowing the Olympic Torch to pass through Taiwan, he says.

September 22, 2007
The Fuzhou City Department of Education issues "Provisional Regulations on the School Enrollment of the Children of Taiwanese Businesspeople." Under the regulations, the children of Taiwanese businesspeople will be allowed to enroll in any of 29 designated elementary schools in Fuzhou.

September 24, 2007
The second plenary meeting of the 7th-term Directors' Meeting of the China Council for the Promotion of the Peaceful Reunification (CCPPR) convenes in Beijing.

September 24, 2007
In a meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi states that through their stubborn promotion of the referendum on United Nations (UN) membership, application for Taiwan's membership in the UN under the name of "Taiwan," and other "Taiwan independence" secessionist activities, the Taiwan authorities have hesitated at nothing to stir up cross-strait conflict and create a crisis in the Taiwan Strait. The situation in the Taiwan Strait is highly sensitive and complex. China lauds the US for reiterating its firm adherence to the "one China" policy and the three Sino-US joint communiques, and opposition to the promotion of the referendum on UN membership by the Taiwanese authorities. China hopes that the US will join China in deterring "Taiwan independence" secessionist activities so as to ensure peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and the joint interests of China and the U.S.

September 24, 2007
At the second plenary meeting of the 7th-term Directors' Meeting of the China Council for the Promotion of Peaceful Reunification (CCPPR) in Beijing, Chairman Jia Qinglin of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference says that when facing the current situation in the Taiwan Strait, the Chinese government will unswervingly and thoroughly carry out its major policy decisions on Taiwan-related work and continue to achieve peaceful reunification with the utmost sincerity and effort. It also firmly opposes attempts by "Taiwan independence" secessionist forces to divide Taiwan from China by any means.

September 26, 2007
At a press conference of the Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) under China's State Council, TAO spokesperson Li Weiyi indicates that the wording regarding "Taiwan Republic" violates the "one China" policy of the international community, the United Nations (UN) Charter, and UN Resolution No. 2578. China opposes and denounces it. The 17th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) will decide at particular time in the future on the guiding thought, overall requirements and main tasks regarding recent trends and developments in the Taiwan Strait. If Taiwan's military deploys missiles aimed at China, Li says that, whoever plays with fire gets burnt.

September 27, 2007
At a regular press briefing, Ministry of Commerce Spokesman Wang Xinpei states that from October 1, 2007, China will introduce on a trial basis a more open policy for some small-volume trade items with Taiwan at some experimental spots, to promote the fast development of such kind of trade with Taiwan.

September 29, 2007
During a general debate at the 62nd session of the United Nations (UN) General Assembly, Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi emphasizes that Taiwan is an inalienable part of the territory of China. China will never allow the "one China" principle or UN Resolution No. 2758 to be challenged.

October 1, 2007
Officials at the Central Office for Taiwan Affairs indicate that the "Resolution on Making Taiwan a Normal Nation" passed by the National Party Congress of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) brazenly mentions the need to "complete, as soon as possible, the rectification of Taiwan's title, draft a new constitution, and hold a referendum at a suitable time to so as to highlight that Taiwan is an independent sovereign state." The resolution also calls for Taiwan to apply for membership in the United Nations and other international organizations under the name of "Taiwan" and also presents a series of other views that ignore the facts, show an ignorance of current trends and are subjective fabrications. These are the new guiding principles flung out by Chen Shui-bian and a minority of stubborn "Taiwan independence" supporters in the DPP in their continued attempts to achieve "de jure Taiwan independence" through constitutional reform and the holding of a referendum.

October 1, 2007
The Ministry of Public Security implements 12 new measures, including measures that exempt all Chinese citizens, including residents of the mainland area, Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan, as well as overseas Chinese, from filling out an Exit Registration Card.

October 4, 2007
In an interview with China Taiwan.org, Taiwan Affairs Office Director Chen Yunlin states that "Taiwan's planned referendum on its bid to join the United Nations" is an attempt to change the status quo in which China and Taiwan are both part of one China and a major step towards "de jure Taiwan independence." It is therefore a "Taiwan independence" referendum in disguise. There are currently two routes before the Taiwanese authorities: One route is to pull back before it is too late by stopping "Taiwan independence "separatist activities; and the other is to cling obstinately to the course of vainly trying to separate Taiwan from China, in which case, those who play with fire will get burnt.

October 9, 2007
In an interview with China Taiwan.org, Yang Liuchang, Deputy Director of the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Department under the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, states that Hong Kong and Macao will continue to promote personnel contacts and other exchanges with Taiwan according to the Basic Law and Qian Qichen's "seven principles."

October 11, 2007
At a regular press briefing, China's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Liu Jianchao states that the title of Taiwan "President" Cheng Shui-bian does not accord with Taiwan's position. Taiwan is an unalienable part of China.

October 11, 2007
Vice Governor Li Chuan of Fujian Province states that Fujian will strengthen tracking, compilation and study of Taiwan standards and establish a sound database and search system for Taiwan standards at the Fujian branch of the National Standards Hall to create a Taiwan Standards Research Center.

October 15, 2007
In a report delivered at the 17th National Congress of the Communist Party of China, Chinese President Hu Jintao emphasizes that China will uphold the principle of "peaceful reunification and one country, two systems" and the eight-point proposal for developing the relations between both sides of the Taiwan Strait and advancing the process of peaceful national reunification in the present stage. China will never waver in its commitment to the "one China" principle, never abandon its efforts to achieve peaceful reunification, never change the policy of placing hopes on the people in Taiwan and never compromise in its opposition to the secessionist activities aimed at "Taiwan independence." China makes a solemn appeal: On the basis of the "one China" principle, let us discuss a formal end to the state of hostility between both sides, reach a peace agreement, construct a framework for peaceful development of cross-Straits relations, and thus usher in a new phase of peaceful development.

October 15, 2007
During the group discussion of the People's Liberation Army delegation at the 17th National Congress of the Communist Party of China, Central Military Commission Vice Chairman Guo Boxiong states that the national sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of China will be firmly protected, "Taiwan independence" separatist activities will be firmly opposed, and no person will be allowed under any name to separate Taiwan from China.

October 17, 2007
Ye Xiaowen, director of State Administration of Religious Affairs, states during a media interview that China is willing to improve ties with the Vatican on the foundation of two principles. First, the Vatican should acknowledge that the government of the People's Republic of China is the sole legal government representing China, and that Taiwan is an inseparable part of Chinese territory. Second, the Vatican must not intervene in China's internal affairs under the name of religious affairs.

October 18, 2007
Taiwan Affairs Office Deputy Director Ye Kedong states during an inspection visit to Fujian that the "West Coast of the Taiwan Strait" is conceived as a political and economic zone. Fujian Province occupies a uniquely advantageous position and also has a solid foundation in terms of China's Taiwan work. In sum, Fujian and Taiwan are joined by the "five ties and six pursuits," which will serve as a foundation for propaganda work directed at Taiwan. Such propaganda work by Fujian will include: First, programs should be constantly improved to truly win over the Taiwanese people. Secondly, the propaganda work should introduce China-related things to the Taiwanese people. And thirdly, it is hoped that Fujian's propaganda work can provide experience and ways of thinking for national propaganda work directed at Taiwan.

October 19, 2007
In an interview with Xinhua News Agency, Zheng Lizhong, executive deputy director of Taiwan Affairs Office under the State Council, states that China will strenuously promote the early realization of comprehensive, direct and two-way direct cross-strait "Three Links"; continue to support economic development on the west coast of the Taiwan Strait and other areas with concentrations of Taiwanese business investment; actively develop the function of these areas in promoting the development of cross-strait relations; create a better environment for Taiwanese business investment and operations in the mainland; and more actively promote educational, cultural, health and sports exchanges.

October 21, 2007
The resolution of the 16th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) report approved at the 17th CPC National Congress emphasizes firmly opposing Taiwan independence separatist activities, protecting China's national sovereignty and territorial integrity, and upholding the fundamental rights of the Chinese people.

October 29, 2007
Ye Kedong, deputy director of the Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) under China's State Council, states at a symposium in Fujian on the propaganda work of two TAO magazines ("Taiwan Work News Report" and "Cross-Strait Relations") that three key points will be closely followed in future Taiwan work: First, the central government's principal policies and guidelines on Taiwan work will be unswervingly and thoroughly implemented; secondly, the basic mission of Taiwan work is to firmly oppose and deter "Taiwan independence "separatist activities; and thirdly, it is emphasized that the fundamental objective of Taiwan work is to protect China's national sovereignty and territorial integrity.

October 31, 2007
China's Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) Spokesperson Yang Yi indicates at a TAO press conference that China firmly opposes any form of "Taiwan independence" separatist activities and will protect its national sovereignty and territorial integrity. China will oppose and deter "Taiwan independence" separatist activities, especially "de jure Taiwan independence" activities, and oppose "Taiwan's planned referendum on its bid to join the United Nations" promoted by Chen Shui-bian's administration. Any issues involving China's sovereignty and territorial integrity must be decided by all Chinese people, including Taiwanese compatriots. Any activities aimed at sabotaging China's Internet services will be investigated and punished according to the law. China also resolutely opposes the Taiwanese authorities' development of nuclear weapons or nuclear weapon capabilities in any form.

November 1, 2007
At a symposium held by the All-China Journalists Association, Ye Kedong, deputy director of China's Taiwan Affairs Office, states that China will continue to vigorously promote the mutual stationing of resident correspondents across the Taiwan Strait.

November 2, 2007
Li Bingcai, executive deputy chairman of the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait, states in an interview with People's Daily Online (http://www.people.com.cn/) that China will never tolerate "Taiwan independence" and never allow any person to separate Taiwan from China by any means.

November 2, 2007
In a speech presented at a seminar on "China-Southeast Asia Relations and the Taiwan Issue," Sun Yafu, deputy director of China's Taiwan Affairs Office, states that, "China is willing, on the foundation of the !￥one China' principle, to negotiate a formal end to the state of hostilities across the Taiwan Strait, to reach a peace accord, establish a framework for peaceful cross-strait development, and open a new era for peaceful cross-strait development." In this way, both sides can seek to resolve major cross-strait issues in the political, economic, military, cultural, and diplomatic arenas, plan the future development of cross-strait relations, and sign a peace accord.

November 5, 2007
In a meeting with US Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates, China's Vice Foreign Minister Dai Bingguo emphasizes the danger of separatist activities aimed at achieving "Taiwan independence." He asks the US to pay great attention to and appropriately deal with the Taiwan issue, take effective and concrete actions, and make joint efforts with China to safeguard peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and safeguard the overall China-U.S. relations.

November 5, 2007
In a meeting with US Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates, Chinese Defense Minister Cao Gangchuan states that if Chen Shui-bian ventures to create incidents of "Taiwan independence," China must take resolute measures at whatever cost to safeguard its national sovereignty and territorial integrity. Moreover, the US should fulfill its commitment on the Taiwan question, stop official exchanges and military ties with the island, and take concrete actions to safeguard peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.

November 6, 2007
At a reception hosted by the US Embassy in China, China's Vice Foreign Minister Dai Bingguo states that the Taiwan issue is a core concern of China, and it has always been the most important and sensitive issue in Sino-US relations. The three Sino-US communiques should be scrupulously abided by for the stability and long-term development of Sino-US relations.

November 7, 2007
Tian Jin, deputy director of China's State Administration of Radio, Film and Television (SARFT), announces that from January 1, 2008, all television drama series jointly-made by both sides of the Taiwan Strait will enjoy the same broadcasting and distribution rights as those solely made in China.

November 8, 2007
The website of China's Ministry of Commerce announcing that civilian organizations representing Taiwan's sand and gravel industry are welcome to jointly form a delegation to hold talks with related parties in China in order to reach specific arrangements as soon as possible on technical and operational issues for the resumption of sand and gravel exports to Taiwan.

November 12, 2007
At the third plenary meeting of the Eighth Fujian Provincial Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC), committee secretary Lu Zhangong states that Fujian's principle position and important function in the Economic Zone on the West Coast of the Taiwan Strait will be further developed. Fujian will establish and expand a platform for external opening, a platform for promoting regional cooperation throughout China, and a platform for promoting the grand endeavor of national unification. It will also establish the Economic Zone on the West Coast of the Taiwan Strait as an advanced area of scientific development and civilian exchanges and cooperation across the Taiwan Strait.

November 14, 2007
At a regular press briefing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Liu Jianchao emphasizes that China urges the United States to take concrete actions to implement the three China-US Joint Communiques, honor its solemn commitment to China on the Taiwan question, immediately cancel relevant arms sales plans, stop arms sales to and military ties with Taiwan, and stop sending any wrong signals to the Taiwan independence secessionist forces. China reserves the right to take further measures.

November 14, 2007
During a press briefing held by the Taiwan Affairs Office(TAO), Li Jansen, deputy director of the Taiwan Affairs Office of China's Ministry of Communications, says that China welcomes representatives of Taiwan's sand and gravel industry and representative civilian organizations to jointly form a delegation to hold talks with related parties in China in order to reach a technical and operational arrangement as soon as possible on issues related to the resumption of natural sand exports to Taiwan. Tang Wei, director general of the Department of Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macao Affairs of China's Ministry of Commerce, indicates that at present the "Three Links" across the Taiwan Strait have not yet been fully implemented, trade and investment between both sides is still indirect, one-way, not smooth, and does not meet people's expectations. Under such circumstances, there is a lack of conditions for discussing preferential trade arrangements. Fan Liqing, the newly appointed spokeswoman for China's Taiwan Affairs Office, states that the Chinese postal authorities discovered letters and parcels from Taiwan stamped with a "UN for Taiwan" postmark and has returned all such letters to the island in accordance with related regulations. The Taiwanese authorities must shoulder all the consequences from the incident, she says.

November 20, 2007
In an article published in the People's Daily, Sun Yafu, deputy director of China's Taiwan Affairs Office, states that insistence on the "one China" principle is a cornerstone of China's Taiwan policy direction and also a basic stabilizing condition for cross-strait relations. The first and foremost mission of Taiwan-related work at present remains to oppose and deter "Taiwan independence" separatist activities, especially "de jure Taiwan independence" activities. China will never allow the Chen Shui-bian administration to achieve its scheme of promoting "Taiwan's referendum on UN membership." China will never waver, compromise or equivocate in the slightest on the major principle and issue of opposing national split, and it will never swallow the bitter fruit of "Taiwan independence."

November 23, 2007
China bans the sale of Lonely Planet travel guidebooks with maps that show China and Taiwan in separate colors.

November 24, 2007
China's Ministry of Land and Natural Resources and Fujian Province sign a "Summary of Discussions on the Joint Facilitation of National Land Resource Work in Fujian Province to Promote the Establishment of the Economic Zone on the West Coast of the Taiwan Strait." Its aim is to promote preferential arrangement policies for Taiwanese enterprises investing in construction-use land in Fujian.

November 26, 2007
In a meeting with US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi urges the US to take practical steps to fulfill its commitments in the three Sino-US Joint Communiques and keep its solemn promise to the Chinese side on the Taiwan issue. He also urges that the US should not send misleading signals to the Chen Shui-bian administration by selling advanced weapon systems, so as to safeguard peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and the overall relationship between China and the United States.

November 27, 2007
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Qin Gang states during a press conference that the Taiwan issue is a major principle issue. China hopes and trusts that the European Union, as a full strategic partner of China, will adopt a clear stance opposing "Taiwan independence."

November 28, 2007
During a joint press conference with European Union leaders, Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao states that China opposes European leaders in an official capacity to meet the Dalai Lama. The Chinese government has always insisted that as long as the Dalai Lama acknowledges that Tibet is an inseparable part of China and that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China, then the door for dialogue with him will always be open.

November 28, 2007
In a meeting with US President George Bush, Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi states that China and the United States should make joint efforts, strengthen cooperation, and take practical steps to prevent any form of splittist activities aimed at achieving "the independence of Taiwan," including the referendum for UN membership, to safeguard peace and stability across the Taiwan Straits and in the Asia Pacific region as a whole.

November 28, 2007
China's State Administration for Industry and Commerce announces the "Opinions on the Registration and Management of Businesses Privately or Individually Owned by Taiwan Farmers in Cross-Strait Agricultural Cooperation Pilot Zones and Business Incubation Parks for Taiwan Farmers." The opinions will come into effect on December 1, 2007

November 28, 2007
At a press briefing held by the Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO), TAO spokesperson Fan Liqing states that China has started preparatory work related to the resumption of exports of natural sand to Taiwan. Exports can be resumed so long as specific arrangements have been reached through communication between representatives of Taiwan's local sand and gravel industry associations and the mainland side. Furthermore, the Deutschmark debenture issue is a matter of general debt repayment, and the Japanese government has the duty and obligation to repay this debt. The amount owed is large and directly involves the immediate rights and interests of hundreds of thousands of Taiwanese people. China hopes that the Japanese government will conscientiously, promptly and appropriately resolve this matter.

December 3, 2007
In a meeting with US Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Eric Edelman, Ma Xiaotian, deputy chief of General Staff of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, urges the US side to stop its official contacts and military links with the Taiwan authorities, to stop selling advanced weapons to Taiwan, and to refrain from sending the wrong signals to the Taiwan authorities so as to avoid any damage to peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and harm to Sino-US relations.

December 3, 2007
Lin Wenyi is reelected as chairperson of the Taiwan Democratic Self-Government League Central Committee at the organization's Eighth All-League Congress.

December 4, 2007
During a meeting with former US President Jimmy Carter, Chinese State Councilor Tang Jiaxuan stresses that "Taiwan independence" secessionist activities are the "biggest threat" to peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. China and the US should work enhance cooperation to deter any form of secessionist activities of Taiwan independence so as to safeguard the peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait as well as the overall situation of China-US relations.

December 4, 2007
During an interview held for the Chinese government web portal www.gov.cn, Chen Qiufa, the vice-director of China's Commission of Science, Technology and Industry for National Defense states that China supports the development in the Taiwan Area of aerospace technology for peaceful use and will consider cooperation in accordance with national policies toward Taiwan.

December 5, 2007
At the Congress of the All-China Federation of Taiwan Compatriots (ACFTC), Jia Qinglin, chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, emphasizes China's firm resolve to oppose any form of "Taiwan independence" separatist activities and protect China's national sovereignty and territorial integrity. China will always firmly uphold the "one China" principle, and firmly oppose and deter "Taiwan independence" separatist activities; actively carry out work for the Taiwanese people, and further promote cross-strait personnel contacts and economic and cultural exchanges; and strengthen the organizational self-development of the ACFTC to contribute to the promotion of the grand mission of China's peaceful unification of the motherland.

December 6, 2007
China's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Qin Gang states at a press conference that for China, opposing Taiwan's "referendum on United Nations membership" and "Taiwan independence" separatist activities is an issue of major principle and the key to ensuring the healthy and stable development of Sino-Japanese relations.

December 6, 2007
During a telephone conversation with US President George Bush, Chinese President Hu Jintao states that the appropriate handling of the Taiwan question is the key to ensuring the steady and healthy development of China-US ties. The Taiwan authorities are intensifying "Taiwan independence" activities, including Taiwan's planned referendum on United Nations membership, creating serious challenges and threats to peace and stability across the Taiwan Straits. It is in the common strategic interests of both China and the US to firmly oppose and prevent "Taiwan independence" and maintain peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.

December 8, 2007
China's All-China Federation of Taiwan Compatriots reelects Liang Guoyang as the federation president.

December 11, 2007
Fan Liqing, deputy director of the Information Bureau under the State Council's Taiwan Affairs Office, expresses hope that both sides of the Taiwan Strait can hold negotiations on the basis of the "1992 Consensus" to discuss issues of respective interest. Opposing and deterring "Taiwan independence" is currently the most important task of compatriots on both sides of the Strait. China must eliminate and resist the interference and destruction caused by "Taiwan independence" forces and further promote the deeper and broader development of cross-strait exchanges and contact.

December 12, 2007
China's National Tourism Administration (NTA) issues "Opinions on Supporting Tourism Development in the Economic Zone on the West Coast of the Taiwan Strait." The "Opinions" indicate that China will strongly support the development of the Economic Zone on the West Coast of the Taiwan Strait and actively promote the creation of a cross-strait tourism cooperation system and the creation of a "cross-strait tourism" brand. The NTA will actively promote tourism exchanges and cooperation between Fujian and Taiwan to make Fujian the first trial province in China for tourism contacts with Taiwan.

December 13, 2007
The spokesperson of China's Ministry of Commerce states that China has started to resume natural sand and gravel exports to Taiwan and will begin accepting applications for export licenses.

December 14, 2007
At the Fujian Provincial Economic Work Conference, Fujian Governor Huang Xiaojing says he will deepen exchanges and cooperation between Fujian and Taiwan, accelerate the establishment of economic interest links, spiritual and cultural links, harmonious society links, and communication channel links to create a shared fate community across the Taiwan Strait and thereby further deepen the unity of feelings and cooperation between compatriots on both sides of the Strait.

December 15, 2007
During a symposium attended by overseas Chinese from New York, Sun Yafu, deputy director of China's Taiwan Affairs Office, states that the major positions to be thoroughly carried out in future work on cross-strait relations will include, first, promoting the peaceful development of cross-strait relations while insisting on the "one China" principle; second, sincerely uniting with the great number of Taiwanese compatriots to jointly promote the grand resurgence of the Chinese people; and third, firmly opposing all forms of "Taiwan independence" separatist activities.

December 16, 2007
In an essay published in Qiushi magazine (Vol. 469), Chen Yunlin, director of China's Taiwan Affairs Office, says that "referendum on joining the United Nations (UN)," which Chen Shui-bian's administration is promoting, is an important step in attempting to change the status quo in which the Mainland and Taiwan are both parts of "one China" and a move towards "de jure Taiwan independence." The most important mission in China's Taiwan-related work at present remains to oppose and deter "Taiwan independence" separatist activities and especially "de jure Taiwan independence" activities. China is determined to thwart the dangerous scheme of Chen Shui-bian's administration to promote a referendum on joining the UN and move towards "Taiwan independence." China is also determined to stop "Taiwan independence" from taking risks and will never allow any person to separate Taiwan from China under any name or by any means.

December 18, 2007
In response to a successful guided missile intercept test conducted by the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF), China's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Qin Gang states at a press conference that China hopes that Japan's related actions will be conducive to the maintenance of regional peace and stability as well as to the enhancement of mutual trust among countries in the region. The Taiwan question is an internal affair of China; and China opposes any country to interfere in the Taiwan issue in whatever form.

December 19, 2007
The Fuzhou Municipal Education Bureau in China issues a notification stipulating that the children of Taiwanese businesspeople will, under equal conditions, receive priority admission and enjoy 10 bonus points on admission examinations for junior high schools in Fuzhou. Upon enrollment as a student, such children will enjoy the same treatment as do students with locally registered households.

December 19, 2007
During meetings with US Department of State and Department of Defense officials and scholars in New York and Washington, D.C., Sun Yafu, deputy director of China's Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, expresses hope that top officials in the US will openly criticize Taiwan's "referendum on joining the UN."

December 20, 2007
The Training Office under the Fujian Provincial Department of Labor and Social Security in China states that from next year it will introduce Taiwan instructors and advanced models for vocational education and technical training.

December 21, 2007
In a meeting with overseas Chinese in Los Angeles, Sun Yafu, deputy director of the Taiwan Affairs Office under China's State Council, says that the Taiwan issue is an internal affair of China. The Chinese government opposes any external interference in the Taiwan issue and opposes any form of Taiwan independence. China hopes that the many overseas Chinese compatriots will actively exercise their full influence to continue to promote the peaceful development of cross-strait relations and work tirelessly for the ultimate realization of national unification.

December 22, 2007
China's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Qin Gang indicates at a press conference that China has taken note of the remarks made by US State Secretary Condoleezza Rice and appreciates Washington's reiteration on many occasions of its adherence to "one China" policy, adherence to three China-US joint communiques, and opposition to "Taiwan independence" and to Taiwan's scheduled "referendum" on its UN bid. China hopes that the United States will continue taking effective measures to work with China to deter the Taiwan authorities from holding the referendum on Taiwan's UN bid and conducting other "Taiwan independence" secessionist activities so as to maintain peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.

December 23, 2007
During a media interview in Los Angeles, Sun Yafu, deputy director of the Taiwan Affairs Office under China's State Council states that the responses of US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and US Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates regarding Taiwan's scheduled referendum on joining the United Nations (UN) are consistent with Sino-US relations and the shared strategic interests of China and the US. He also indicates that if Taiwan's referendum on its UN bid passes, it will lead to an even more serious crisis.

December 24, 2007
In an interview with a reporter of Xinhua News Agency, Wang Jiarui, Head of the International Liaison Department under the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, states that China will use inter-party contacts and channels to actively explain its guiding policies on Taiwan and deepen the understanding of political parties in other countries regarding the Taiwan issue. China will especially reveal to foreign political parties the Taiwanese authorities' attempts at holding the "Taiwan-Africa Summit" and a "referendum on joining the United Nations." It will also encourage the political parties of some countries to take an active stance in upholding the "one China" principle and clearly opposing "Taiwan independence."

December 25, 2007
China's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Qin Gang states at a press conference that, China attaches great importance to the fact that Japan has on many occasions stated that it adheres to the "one China" principle and it neither supports "Taiwan independence," nor the Taiwan authorities' attempt to hold the referendum on "United Nations membership." China hopes Japan will proceed from the overall interest of regional peace and stability as well as China-Japan relations and handle the Taiwan-related issues cautiously.

December 26, 2007
At a regular press conference, Zhang Wanming, deputy director of the Law and Regulation Bureau under the Taiwan Affairs Office of China's State Council states that, according to statistics, from 1998 to the present, 16 arbitration organizations in China have recruited 48 professional arbitrators from the Taiwan Area. If a Taiwanese investor has an investment-related dispute with a mainland company, enterprise or other economic organization or individual, he can submit the disputed case to an arbitration organization for arbitration according to a contractual arbitration clause or subsequent written arbitration agreement. Chinese arbitration organizations can recruit Taiwanese arbitrators according to the relevant regulations.

December 30, 2007
Responding to recent statements by the Taiwan authorities regarding the development of Hong Kong's political system, a spokesperson of the Constitution and Mainland Affairs Bureau of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government states that Taiwan has no role in this matter.

Mainland Affairs Council

IV. Mainland's Taiwan Policy and Work

2007