January 1, 2008
Presiding at a national founding memorial ceremony, President Chen Shui-bian states that the preamble of the Constitution of the People's Republic of China clearly indicates that: "Taiwan is part of the sacred territory of the People's Republic of China." Besides steadfastly denying the existence of the Republic of China, Beijing has done all in its power to suppress Taiwan and prevent it from enjoying the international status and space to which it is entitled as a sovereign country. Over the past seven-plus years, the number of tactical ballistic missiles deployed by China on its side of the Taiwan Strait has increased to today's 1,328. In addition to setting in motion a three-stage plan for its People's Liberation Army to invade Taiwan, Beijing is poised to designate an "air defense identification zone" in the Taiwan Strait and open a new civil air route along the median of the Taiwan Strait. In doing so, China is once again challenging and attempting to unilaterally change the status quo in the Taiwan Strait.
January 1, 2008
Regarding President Chen Shui-bian's 2008 New Year's Day Address, the MAC addresses a five-point appeal to the Beijing authorities:
- We appeal to China to join with Taiwan in promoting cross-strait peace and development, and to join hands with Taiwan in normalizing cross-strait relations.
- We appeal to the Beijing authorities to remove the political obstacle created by the "one China framework" so as to begin peaceful cross-strait dialogue and promote cross-strait development.
- We appeal to the Beijing authorities to learn from past lessons, to stop intimidating Taiwan's democracy and to stop threatening international peace.
- We appeal to the Beijing authorities to immediately stop military intimidation against Taiwan and stop provocative actions that seek to unilaterally change the status quo in the Taiwan Strait.
- We appeal to the Beijing authorities to stop taking political considerations in mind and to promptly resume negotiations on the many technical matters regarding cross-strait economic and trade exchanges.
January 1, 2008
In response to a request by Chinese tourist Wu Yalin's request for political asylum from the Taiwanese government, the MAC issues a press release indicating that Chinese persons who come to Taiwan for tourism and need to extend their stay in Taiwan may, within the legal period of their visa, apply to extend their stay under the relevant stipulations, according to the Regulations Governing the Permission of People of the Mainland Area to Visit Taiwan for Tourism Activities. Moreover, since the involved party is seeking political asylum, this matter involved the powers and duties of the related agencies, which must consult on this matter to determine the facts.
January 2, 2008
In an interview with Sebastien Le Belzic, special correspondent in Beijing for the international news station France 24, President Chen Shui-bian states that the holding of the referendum on joining the United Nations (UN) under the name of Taiwan not only is an extremely important step in consolidating and deepening Taiwan's democracy, but it also represents the fact that extremely important democratic values and basic human rights can be further cultivated and grow strongly in Taiwan. President Chen also indicates that Taiwan is a sovereign country, that Taiwan is absolutely not a part of China and is not a province of the People's Republic of China, nor is it a local government of China. He also emphasizes that if both sides want to have contact, dialogue, and negotiations, China must first respect the fact and status quo that Taiwan is a sovereign country. Secondly, China must respect the free will and choice of the 23 million Taiwanese people. Thirdly, any disputes and differences must be resolved through peaceful means without resorting to force or other non-peaceful means. Finally, related cross-strait negotiations must be conducted based on equality of position. They cannot be based on big versus small, nor can they be based on the assertion that the Beijing authorities are the central government and the Taipei side is only a local government. This kind of unequal negotiations and talks also cannot lead to the signing of a cross-strait peace accord.
January 8, 2008
At a year-end press conference, MAC Chairman Chen Ming-tong announces that in order to ensure the employment rights and household income of Chinese spouses in Taiwan, under the principle of "better social assistance, improved PR approval," the government will study and discuss the possibility of relaxing restrictions on their employment rights so that Chinese spouses can find work and support their family livelihood.
January 10, 2008
At a pre-election meeting of a Hong Kong and Macao election observation group, MAC Vice Chairman Tung Chen-yuan presents a speech stating that the Chinese authorities have repeatedly voiced unreasonable abuses through the media and unreasonably equated Taiwan's democratic efforts with "de jure Taiwan independence," thereby totally denying the manifestation of the will of all of the Taiwanese people. Moreover, the democratic referendum on joining the UN under the name of Taiwan is not related to a change to national moniker or constitutional reform, nor does it run counter to President Chen's "four noes" pledge. However, the Chinese authorities have repeatedly exerted harsh suppression. On the one hand, China has effusively stated that it "places the hopes on the Taiwanese people," while on the other hand it has continuously suppressed Taiwan's international survival space through abominable means. This amply demonstrates the absurdity and irrationality of China's cross-strait policy.
January 11, 2008
Attending the award presentation ceremony of 2007 Awards for Cross-strait Cinematic Exchanges, MAC Chairman Chen Ming-tong states that the only way to breakthrough the current cross-strait political bottleneck is by promoting the normalization of cross-strait relations. This means the normalization of national status and mutual acknowledgement of the other side's existence. Under this condition there would no longer be any problem with the negotiation and signing of agreements between both sides on currency clearance mechanisms and financial supervision mechanisms. Regardless of who is in power in the future, the Beijing authorities must resolve this political issue and seek the normal development of cross-strait relations.
January 13, 2008
MAC Vice Chairman Johnnason Liu indicates at a press conference that, the MAC continues to carry out work regarding cross-strait direct transportation links, including the opening of the "Mini Three-Links," Lunar New Year charter flights and festival charter flights. At present, festival charter flights are provided for a total period of 10 weeks, meaning that Taiwan's airlines can fly directly to and from China during one-fifth of the year. The opening of cross-strait direct transportation links requires many accompanying measures, such as assistance measures to benefit Taiwan's overall economy and industries after such links are opened. The opening up of links will also have a deep impact on Taiwan, and such policies therefore need to be carefully assessed.
January 13, 2008
The MAC issues a press release appealing to the international community to jointly press China to honor its pledges on Hong Kong's right to general elections. The MAC indicates that democracy is a universal value. All members of the international community should be more concerned about the pursuit of democratic activities in any area. The MAC also indicates that the implementation of full general elections in Hong Kong will not only help to strengthen the governance capacity of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government, but will also serve as a starting point for China to promote democratic general elections. If the Chinese authorities continue to use any excuse to postpone the Hong Kong general election, they will lose the support of the people and damage their international reputation. The MAC specially appeals to the international community to continue to show concern over the issue of democratic progress in Hong Kong.
January 15, 2008
At an overseas Chinese banquet in Guatemala, President Chen Shui-bian delivers a speech stating that due to the increasing economic power, China is more than ever intensifying its military intimidation and diplomatic suppression against Taiwan, and is going to any extreme by all conceivable means. However, Taiwan cannot allow itself to be duped. Taiwan must exert the utmost effort to promote its membership in the United Nations through the holding of a referendum vote. It must also bravely express its voice to China and the entire world through the direct democratic method of holding a referendum.
January 21, 2008
MAC Chairman Chen Ming-tong states that the MAC is studying a model for the opening of tourism in Taiwan for Chinese tourists. It is planning to allow Chinese tourists to travel to Taiwan on international cruise liners via a third country.
January 22, 2008
The MAC issues a press release responding to China's manipulation of the official procedures of the World Health Organization (WHO) Executive Board to peremptorily include Taiwan, without ample discussion, within the scope of the International Health Regulations (IHR). The press release states that China has constantly abused political violence and made demands of international organizations to peremptorily pressure Taiwan's international space for survival. In the WHO, an organization deeply involved in the health rights and interests of the 23 million people of Taiwan and the entire world, China has deceptively stated that it cares for the health of the Taiwanese people. In addition to annually blocking Taiwan's applications for WHO membership, China has privately signed with the WHO a memorandum of understanding restricting Taiwan's contact with the WHO. Moreover, China recently used the occasion of the formal implementation of the IHR last June to carry out a new round of political suppression. This included a food security incident involving China's procrastination in notifying Taiwan of the shipment of toxic corn from Thailand to Taiwan in September; and China's demand that the WHO not have direct contact with related agencies in Taiwan-a demand that neglect the life security and health rights and interests of the Taiwanese people. In December, moreover, Beijing manipulated IHR-related documents to include eight Taiwanese ports within the territory of China, again exposing China unreasonable and incessant scheming to dwarf Taiwan's sovereign status.
January 22, 2008
MAC Vice Chairman Johnnason Liu publishes a paper entitled "Taiwan Should Actively Promote the Legislation of the Refugee Act and Implement the Nation's Founding Concept of Human Rights." The paper indicates that in recent years, cases involving Chinese people entering Taiwan without permission to seek asylum have been investigated on an individual basis to determine whether or not the person has been involved in democracy movements in China. Moreover, such cases will be appropriately handled in reference to the 1951 United Nations Convention relating to the Status of Refugees, the laws of other countries, and Taiwan's draft of Refugee Act.
January 30, 2008
Responding to the heavy snow storms in China and their likely impact on Taiwanese businesses, the MAC issues a press release indicating that, according to Taiwan's understanding, some Taiwanese businesses in China have felt an impact from the storms on their production, shipping and supply operations. However, the overall impact of the storm is still under control. The MAC states that, government agencies in Taiwan are already handling and responding to related matters and are deeply concerned about the Taiwanese businesspeople and students affected by the storms in China. The MAC urges China to provide the necessary assistance and support.
February 3, 2008
MAC Chairman Chen Ming-tong sternly denounces the malicious criticisms and threats made by the Taiwan Work Office under the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China and the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council against the holding of the referendums on joining and returning to the United Nations (UN). Chairman Chen solemnly emphasizes that the Chinese authorities deceptively claim that, "The contradictions and differences between both sides of the Taiwan Strait can be fully resolved through negotiations based on parity during the process of peacefully developing cross-strait relations." However, over the past eight years, during which Taiwan has constantly and positively made goodwill gestures, the Beijing authorities have still rigidly insisted that Taiwan should accept their framework established under the precondition of the "one China principle" and have refused to negotiate with Taiwan under the principle of parity. China's criticism against Taiwan's referendums only further demonstrates Beijing's lack of understanding of the cross-strait reality and the reaction of the public opinion in Taiwan. China's attempts are aimed at confusing the international community and misleading their judgment about the internal development in Taiwan by fabricating the lies and illusion that China has conducted negotiations with Taiwan.
February 4, 2008
MAC Spokesperson Johnnason Liu announces at a press conference that, from January 28, Taiwan will relax the types of financial statement that may be attached to Taiwan residency applications by Chinese spouses. In the future, Chinese spouses may not only provide a certificate of "having a certain amount of properties for self-sufficiency or living upon reliable support," as stipulated under the original regulations, but may also provide as evidence a certificate of specialized ability, total income of cohabiting family members, or relevant real estate owned by the Taiwan spouse.
February 4, 2008
The MAC announces the "Combined Analysis Report on Public Opinion Surveys on Cross-Strait Relations in 2007." The report indicates that the Taiwanese people feel that the Beijing authorities are unfriendly to both the government and people of Taiwan. At the end of last year, the percentage of the public believing that China has a hostile attitude toward Taiwan reached a new high. The vast majority of the public believe, moreover, that China's military buildup, passage of the "anti-separation law," and other such actions are expressions of hostility toward Taiwan. The surveys indicate that, the main objective and expectation of the Taiwanese people regarding the development of cross-strait relations is to pursue peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait through exchanges and interactions.
The MAC expresses that, regarding views on the future and position of the country, the vast majority of the public agree that "Taiwan is an independent sovereign country," that "Taiwan's future should be determined by the Taiwanese people," and that "Taiwan is not a part of the People's Republic of China." The vast majority also believe that "China has no right to inquire about or interfere in Taiwan's internal affairs (such as rectification of names, constitutional reform, etc.)" Over 70% of the public support "joining the United Nations under the name of Taiwan," and the vast majority of the public are unsatisfied with China's diplomatic suppression against Taiwan and believe China should take responsibility for the deterioration in cross-strait relations because it has snatched away Taiwan's diplomatic allies.
The MAC expresses that the "one China" principle established by China as a precondition for handling cross-strait issues cannot be accepted by the mainstream public opinion in Taiwan. The public opinion survey also indicates that the public universally believe that the current asymmetrical flow of personnel and capital across the Taiwan Strait is an irregular phenomenon.
February 5, 2008
The MAC issues a press release welcoming the Chinese side's early release of Chen Xiang, the chief correspondent in China of Singapore's Straits Times. The MAC also states that there are still many persons in China that are under surveillance, under house arrest, secretly arrested, and judged at close trials by the Chinese authorities for reporting the news or seeking freedom of speech, like Chen. These people need the same concern from the international community.
February 14, 2008
Attending the 2008 Lunar New Year gathering held for Taiwanese businesspeople's associations, President Chen Shui-bian delivers a speech stating that the Enterprise Income Tax Law and Labor Contract Law that came into force in China on January 1 this year will greatly increase the production costs of Taiwanese businesses in China. Taiwanese businesspeople must promptly make upgrading and transformation plans. This is also an ideal opportunity for them to consider increasing their investments in Taiwan to diversify their operating risk. In order to help overseas Taiwanese businesspeople return to Taiwan, the government has established a Task Force for Encouraging Overseas Taiwanese Businesspeople to Return to Taiwan for Investments. The task force serves as a single window to provide investment information, develop investment opportunities, handle applications for investment incentives, eliminate investment obstacles, and provide other services. The government sincerely invites our friends from Taiwanese business circles to reinvest in Taiwan, to increase their stakes in Taiwan, and to keep their operations, R&D, and innovative and high-level production in Taiwan so as to truly achieve the goal of "deeply cultivating Taiwan while reaching out to the world."
February 14, 2008
Attending the "Lunar New Year gathering and banquet for Taiwanese businesspeople's associations," Premier Chang Chun-hsiung delivers a speech stating that the government has instructed the Ministry of Economic Affairs to establish a Service Office for Promoting the Investment in Taiwan by Overseas Taiwanese Businesses to help Taiwanese businesspeople face the current economic dilemma. Premier Chang says that during his long tenure as the chairman of the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF), he specially directed the relevant departments of the SEF to list assistance in investing back in Taiwan by overseas Taiwanese businesspeople as a focal task of the foundation, in order to strengthen services to Taiwanese businesspeople. Premier Chang indicates that related ministries and departments of the Executive Yuan have also put forth many new measures to assist enterprises in dealing with capital, land, labor and other issues of concern to our friends from Taiwanese business circles.
February 20, 2008
MAC Chairman Chen Ming-tong indicates during an interview that the government will do its best to relax the scope of passengers allowed to travel via the "Mini-Three-Links" route. However, it is unable to fully open such links or to open links without restrictions on personal status. The key point of expanding the "Mini-Three-Links" policy is to find ways to benefit the residents of the Kinmen and Matsu areas.
February 22, 2008
In a meeting with foreign dignitaries attending the "International Forum on Human Rights in China and the 2008 Beijing Olympics," President Chen Shui-bian presents a speech stating that, Taiwan's experience in the development of democracy absolutely can provide the Chinese people with the best hope and example. The Taiwanese government and people also are willing to make the utmost effort to foster China's democratization. Only if China transforms into a truly democratic nation will there be hope for peace in the region. In addition, this would lay the groundwork for a genuine resolution to the relationship between Taiwan and China, and make world peace a real possibility.
President Chen also expresses hope that the Chinese government does not use the holding of the Olympic Games as an excuse to purge and arrest dissidents. Rather, he urges the Beijing government to take advantage of the Olympics as an opportunity to truly improve human rights and realize the Olympic spirit of peace, equality and harmony.
February 26, 2008
Attending the "United Nations (UN) for Taiwan" activity, President Chen Shui-bian delivers a speech stating that the referendum is a very important step in consolidating and deepening Taiwan's democracy. Regardless of whether the referendum on joining the UN, the referendum on returning to the UN, or both referendums pass, it is absolutely the greatest victory and achievement for the Taiwanese people and Taiwan's democracy. If split-ticket voting results in both referendums failing, it will send a very serious wrong signal to the world and lead the international community to misunderstand that the Taiwanese people do not put value on joining the UN or protecting their own basic human rights.
February 26, 2008
In a meeting with Mr. Randall Schriver and Mr. Dan Blumenthal, the co-directors of the American Enterprise Institute's Taiwan Policy Working Group, President Chen Shui-bian states that Taiwan's wish to participate in the World Health Organization and the United Nations (UN) naturally involves the issue of sovereignty. However, this is the health human right, political human right, and collective human right of Taiwan's 23 million people. It is impossible to talk about human rights without talking about sovereignty. Under the same principle, when talking about Taiwan's diplomatic predicament and Taiwan's international space, it is also impossible to avoid discussion of sovereignty, because sovereignty is central to diplomacy. Therefore, unless Taiwan gives up its national sovereignty or allows its national sovereignty to be dwarfed or localized, whatever specific diplomatic space Taiwan wants is just a matter of milking the bull due to China's pressure, boycott, and obstruction.
February 26, 2008
Attending the 2008 Lunar New Year Gathering for Industrial and Commercial Groups activity, President Chen Shui-bian delivers a speech stating that in order to encourage Taiwanese businesspeople to return to Taiwan, invest in Taiwan, and increase stakes in Taiwan, the government has established a Task Force for Encouraging Overseas Taiwanese Businessmen to Return to Taiwan for Investments." The task force serves as a single window to provide investment information, develop investment opportunities, handle applications for investment incentives, eliminate investment obstacles, and provide other services. Administrative departments will promptly study and discuss broader exemption programs to enable more Taiwanese businesspeople to retroactively report and register their investments in China. So long as Taiwanese businesspeople are willing to invest in Taiwan, the regulations can be more flexible on the basis of the current laws, so that within a certain amount of illegal investment, Taiwanese businesspeople intending to invest in Taiwan can be lightly handled.
February 27, 2008
MAC Chairman Chen Ming-tong states during a media interview that the idea of "election charter flight services is a new issue that must be renegotiated with Beijing." If China is truly sincere, it should quickly resume negotiations on the three issues (passenger charter flights, cargo charter flights and tourism), since talks on technical issues are completed. If negotiations can be resumed quickly, Taiwanese businesspeople can take charter flights back to Taiwan to vote in elections. Chairman Chen also emphasizes that further consideration should be given to the daily life of Taiwanese businesspeople, so negotiations on the issues of passenger and cargo charter flights and the opening up of tourism in Taiwan for Chinese tourist should be promptly completed.
March 3, 2008
In an interview on Public Television Service's Taiwanese Evening News program, President Chen Shui-bian states that democracy is Taiwan's future and destiny. Only the 23 million Taiwanese people have the right to make this decision. No country, political party, or regime can make this decision for the Taiwanese people. The referendum is a form of direct and true democracy. It is the due right and freedom of the 23 million Taiwanese people to make their voice heard to the world through the democratic process of a referendum.
March 4, 2008
The MAC issues a press release reiterating that Taiwan is an independent sovereign country, its national moniker is the Republic of China (ROC), and its sovereignty rests in its 23 million people. The Taiwanese government will never accept China's unilateral proposal to define the status of cross-strait relations and to establish a political framework under the "one China" principle, nor will it accept the development of cross-strait relations in an unequal manner under such a preset framework. Taiwan urges China to immediately stop its military intimidation and international suppression aganist Taiwan and to pragmatically face up to the existence of the ROC. It also urges the Beijing authorities to resume negotiations and communication with Taiwan on various issues as soon as possible. China should not misjudge public opinion in Taiwan and the development of cross-strait situations. It also should not vainly attempt to undermine or interfere with Taiwan's democratic process. Otherwise, China will inevitably bear serious consequences resulting from its own erroneous policies and measures.
March 5, 2008
Premier Chang Chun-hsiung states at an Executive Yuan session that, after discussion with the relevant government agencies, the government has decided re-implement measures allowing China-based Taiwanese businesspeople that have not applied to the government for permission of their investments in China to retroactively apply for such permission so that they may invest back in Taiwan in a timely fashion. The move aims to achieve a win-win outcome for Taiwan's economy and Taiwanese businesspeople in China. The government will adopt special breakthrough methods for retroactive permit applications. Within the scope of the limits of administrative powers, and under a framework of normalized fines and retroactive permit application operations for Taiwanese businesspeople, the responsible authorities are willing to impose only symbolic fines on China-based Taiwanese businesspeople willing to return to Taiwan to retroactively apply for investment permission and to quickly, effectively, and energetically respond to the needs of Taiwanese businesspeople in China.
March 5, 2008
The MAC issues a press release indicating that the Chinese authorities' recent statements regarding Taiwan reflect not only their attempt to influence the development of Taiwan's upcoming presidential election and referendum, but also their attempt to pre-establish the framework and direction for the mode of cross-strait relations and interactions after the election. The MAC states that Taiwan's consistent position has been that both sides across the Strait should resume interactions and dialogues as soon as possible without setting any political conditions. However, China has unilaterally established political precondition of the "one China principle" and the "one country, two systems" framework for a future outcome, which has already peremptorily been included in the text of the "Anti-Separation Law" and will not be changed. Beijing's so-called negotiations based on parity are therefore just empty talks.
March 6, 2008
While attending the inspection tour activities entitled "United Nations (UN) for Taiwan under Gods' Protection," President Chen Shui-bian states that the common expectation of the Taiwanese people is that Taiwan will no longer be an international orphan and Taiwan wants to become a member of the United Nations and the international community. Taiwan's lack of membership in the UN prevents Taiwan from joining organizations under the United Nations. This creates many problems, including preventing Taiwan from signing the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea and from joining the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and World Health Organization (WHO). The life and property rights and interests of Taiwanese fishermen cannot be protected when they go out to sea; and Taiwan's world-class cultural heritage cannot be registered as human cultural heritage. The medical care and health of Taiwanese people is also seriously affected, forcing the people of Taiwan to pay the price in their life and health. Taiwan's economy is affected as well. Therefore, Taiwan wishes to join the UN not only for political reasons, but also for the rights and interests of Taiwan's fishermen, cultural topics, medical care, health and economic development.
March 7, 2008
In an interview with Ichikawa Hayami, editor-in-chief of the international edition of Japan's Asahi Shimbun, President Chen Shui-bian states that China believes that if there will be dialogues and negotiations between both sides, then Taiwan must accept Beijing's preset precondition. This is not true parity. Taiwan has proposed four principles for cross-strait dialogues and negotiations, including sovereignty, democracy, peace and parity.
March 7, 2008
In a reception with Dirk Sterckx, chairman of the European Parliament's Delegation for Relations with the People's Republic of China, President Chen Shui-bian states that the referendum on joining the United Nations (UN) is not a so-called referendum on "de jure Taiwan independence." Rather, the hope is that the referendum will provide a democratic means for the people of Taiwan to express their voice and hopes to the entire world regarding their desire to become part of the UN family. It also explains to the world that the UN representation rights of the 23 million Taiwanese people absolutely cannot be substituted or replaced by China. On the eve of the third anniversary of the passage of the "Anti-Separation Law," the referendum especially expresses Taiwan's opposition to China's hope to achieve its intentions of annexing Taiwan and making Taiwan become a local government or a local-level province of the People's Republic of China through intimidation or military means.
March 7, 2008
The Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) completed revisions to the Standards for Punishment for Illegal Investments or Technical Cooperation in Mainland Area and Review Principles for Investments or Technical Cooperation in the Mainland Area. Starting from March 10, 2008, the MOEA will begin processing applications for retroactive investment permission by China-based Taiwanese businesspeople returning to Taiwan.
March 12, 2008
Premier Chang Chun-hsiung indicates at an Executive Yuan session that the government agrees to allow the overseas banking units (OBUs) and overseas branches of domestic banks to engage in factoring operations for accounts receivable produced through transactions in China. Such offices will also be allowed to extend credit to the China branch organizations of legal persons in third areas. Moreover, in order to allow greater flexibility in loan operations, the said banks will be allowed to self-manage their loan risk, without differentiating secured and unsecured loans, under the restriction that loans extended to China-based overseas branches do not exceed 30 percent of the total net asset value of the OBU or overseas branch.
March 12, 2008
During a speech at the founding ceremony for the Cross-Strait Emergency Service Center established under the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF), MAC Chairman Chen Ming-tong states that the SEF has made considerable achievements and accumulated valuable experience in handling emergencies related to travel in China by Taiwanese people and visits to Taiwan by Chinese tourists. The establishment of the Cross-Strait Emergency Service Center is an important milestone marking a major stride forward in perfecting the cross-strait emergency relief work. The center will contribute to cross-strait emergency relief work and open new opportunities for both sides to promote a normalized and systematic emergency coordination mechanism in the future.
March 13, 2008
In an article on "Give Democracy a Chance-Making the Extra Effort for Taiwan through the Referendum" in the Liberty Times, President Chen Shui-bian states that the upcoming referendums on joining and returning to the United Nations (UN) not only will for the first time express to the world the Taiwanese people's aspiration to join the UN and their determination and will to actively participate in the international community, but they are also referendums "against war, against aggression, and against annexation."
March 14, 2008
The MAC issues "Background Information on the Handling Measures Governing Overstaying Chinese Spouses in Taiwan," indicating that in order to guarantee the rights of cross-strait couples to engage in family reunion, the MAC and related agencies have deliberated on and completed the formulation of the handling measures governing overstaying Chinese spouses in Taiwan, which will allow them to apply for an extension of stay. The measures have been approved by the Executive Yuan, and the relevant guidelines will be promulgated once they have been formulated by the National Immigration Agency (NIA).
March 14, 2008
MAC Chairman Chen Ming-tong indicates that the "one law, two communiques" is a shackle enchaining the destiny of the Taiwanese People. He indicates that on March 14, 2005, the Chinese government passed the "Anti-Separation Law" (ASL) unilaterally defining the status quo of cross-strait relations. With wording such as "a legacy of the Chinese civil war," the ASL attempts to deny the reality that Taiwan and China have no jurisdiction over each other. At the same time, it stipulates the use of "non-peaceful" means as an option in resolving the Taiwan Strait issue. After passing the ASL, the Beijing authorities invited the chairmen of Taiwan's opposition parties to visit China. China has produced the "Lien-Hu Communique" and the "Soong-Hu Communique," setting up a new "one law, two communiques" framework for dealing with Taiwan in an attempt to achieve the ultimate strategic goal of gradually unifying Taiwan.
March 15, 2008
The MAC represents the government of the Republic of China in strongly denouncing China's military suppression of protest activities in Tibet. The MAC indicates that China's use of the military, police and tanks to deal with the peaceful demonstrations by the Tibetan people has resulted in serious conflicts, death and serious injury. The action again demonstrates China's abominable human rights record. Beijing's peremptory hard-line actions only enable the Taiwanese people to truly and clearly understand that the autocratic regime in Beijing absolutely will not use "peaceful" means to handle the cross-strait issue.
March 18, 2008
Responding to the statement made by Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao on China's opposition to the referendum on Taiwan's membership in the United Nations (UN), President Chen Shui-bian states that Taiwan is not a part of China, nor is it a province of the People's Republic of China (PRC). The PRC and Taiwan are countries independent of each other and they have no jurisdiction over each other. This is a fact and the status quo. The PRC has never governed Taiwan for even one day. The status quo in the Taiwan Strait is that Taiwan is an independent sovereign country and is not a part of China.
March 18, 2008
The MAC issues a press release indicating that the Republic of China is a democratic, free, and independent state. Its sovereignty resides in Taiwan's 23 million people, and only the 23 million people of Taiwan have right to decide Taiwan's future. The People's Republic of China has never exercised sovereignty over Taiwan, and naturally the Chinese government has no right to interfere with or determine Taiwan's political status. The 1.3 billion people of China also have no right to jointly decide Taiwan's future and destiny. The MAC also reiterates that the government is willing to hold negotiations with China based on parity on issues of mutual concern after the presidential election. However, the government cannot accept the "one China" precondition unilaterally preset by Beijing. This has always been the firm position of Taiwan. The government hopes that the Beijing authorities will completely remove their "one China" framework and promptly resume the currently stalled negotiations on various issues.
March 19, 2008
Premier Chang Chun-hsiung states at an Executive Yuan session that the government will normalize the special "Mini-Three-Links" project for Taiwanese businesspeople returning to Taiwan for the Lunar New Year holiday. In the future, the responsible persons and employees of Taiwanese-invested enterprises in China, as well as their spouse and lineal relatives, will be able to travel across the Taiwan Strait via the "Mini-Three-Links" so long as they have certificates issued by the Taiwanese Businesspeople's Associations. Premier Chang also states that the Executive Yuan has approved a trial reciprocal travel program related to the "Mini Three-Links." The program's initial target is to allow the current daily quota of 680 Chinese tourists to visit Kinmen and Matsu. An equal number of people from the Taiwan Area will also be allowed to make tourism visits to China after stopping over in Kinmen or Matsu. The quota will be gradually expanded if good results have been produced in implementing the program.
March 20, 2008
In a reception with foreign observers of Taiwan's presidential election, President Chen Shui-bian delivers a speech stating that greatest bottleneck in cross-strait relations is that China is unable to acknowledge the fact that Taiwan is an independent sovereign country. Beijing has repeatedly declared at the United Nations (UN) and other international venues that Taiwan is a part or a province of the People's Republic of China. It has also claimed to represent the 23 million Taiwanese people in the UN, intentionally misguided the international community, and misinterpreted UN Resolution No. 2758. Such statements are unacceptable to the 23 million Taiwanese people irrespective of political party or color; and they are inconsistent with the facts. The US, Japan, European Union and numerous other democratic countries have also expressed that such statements are unacceptable.
March 20, 2008
In a reception with members of an election observation mission of the US Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), President Chen Shui-bian states that the signing of a cross-strait peace accord promoted by the Chinese leadership comes with the condition that Taiwan accept the "one China" principle. Under such circumstances, the signing of the accord of this kind would absolutely be like "seeking a hare in a hen's nest." In view of China's recent bloody crackdown on innocent Tibetan people, President Chen is convinced that even more Taiwanese people are increasingly unwilling to believe that the signing of a so-called peace accord with China will truly bring permanent peace in the Taiwan Strait.
March 20, 2008
While attending a press conference held by the Government Information Office of the Executive Yuan for international media visiting Taiwan to observe the presidential election, MAC Chairman Chen Ming-tong states that in view of the Tibet incident, China will not abandon the use of military force to resolve disputes just because it is hosting the Olympic Games and its economy is on the rise. The international community should face up to China's non-peaceful rise and large-scale military build-up and specifically demand that China stop using military force, so as to protect and uphold human rights, freedom and regional peace and security.
March 27, 2008
The MAC issues a press release thanking the US, Japan, the UK, Germany, Canada, European Union, and the rest of the international community for their positive affirmation and support of the democratic achievements of Taiwan's election and their expectations for the benign development of cross-strait relations. The MAC appeals to the Chinese government to face up to Taiwan's democratic system, recognize the fact of the existence of the Republic of China and, under the principles of "parity, dignity, mutual benefit" and based on the existing negotiations, eliminate the barriers of unilaterally-established political preconditions, remove the missiles deployed against Taiwan, stop suppressing Taiwan's international survival space, and actively and pragmatically join with Taiwan in establishing a cross-strait platform for substantive dialogues and exchanges, and thereby create an opportunity for benign cross-strait interactions.
March 28, 2008
During a meeting with American Institute in Taiwan Chairman Raymond F. Burghardt, President Chen Shui-bian states that "1992 Consensus" does not exist. Beijing not only opposes "one China, one Taiwan," it also opposes a "two Chinas" policy. Beijing does not respect that Taiwan or the Republic of China is a sovereign country, nor does it agree that "one China" refers to the "Republic of China."
April 2, 2008
MAC Chairman Chen Ming-tong states that a currency-clearing agreement must be signed before renminbi (RMB) can be fully convertable in Taiwan. Since this issue involves political factors, there is a higher degree of difficulty in dealing with it. However, the ROC side has made preparations. As long as China decides to open up tourism visits to Taiwan and the two sides sign related agreements, measures to make RMB partially convertable can be implemented after amendments to Article 38 of the Act Governing Relations Between People of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area have been completed.
April 4, 2008
At a press briefing, MAC Vice Chairman Johnnason Liu states that according to the agreement originally reached through the negotiation agencies respectively authorized by both sides across the Strait, only four types of cross-strait charter flight are allowed: holiday charter flights, cargo charter flights, medical charter flights and humanitarian charter flights. Weekend charter flights are not included among these four types of specialized charter flights. Moreover, the original agreement clearly stipulates that any future adjustments must be handled through negotiations.
April 6, 2008
MAC Chairman Chen Ming-tong states that differences between the Chinese and English versions of recent statements by Xinhua News Agency on the "1992 Consensus" indicate that Beijing's "one China" policy is interpretated differently on the domestic and international fronts. China needs to formally recognize on international ocassions the statement of "one China, with each side having its own interpretation," and truly face up to the existence of the Republic of China before the cross-strait political impasse can be resolved.
April 7, 2008
At a MAC Council Meeting, the MAC issues a report on the handling of matters related to the revision and implementation of the "Program for Planning Expansion of the 'Mini Three-Links'." In the report, the MAC indicates that all of the measures related to the said program have been arranged and were implemented on April 1 this year. The results of the program will be reviewed at a suitable time after a certain period of implementation.
April 10, 2008
Presiding at a high-level national security conference, President Chen Shui-bian emphasizes, in regards to the promotion of Taiwan's participation in the World Health Organization (WHO), that the 23 million Taiwanese people should not be deprived of their basic life and health human rights. The Taiwanese people have the right to seek equal status in participating in WHO-related mechanisms, conferences and activities. Obtaining WHO membership is the desire of all the people of Taiwan and it is an objective supported by both the ruling and opposition parties. The government cannot abandon this goal lightly. However, prior to gaining entry into the WHO, the government will make every effort to obtain observer status for Taiwan in the World Health Assembly (WHA).
April 12, 2008
Regarding the meeting between vice-president-elect Mr. Vincent Siew and Chinese President Hu Jintao, MAC Chairman Chen Ming-tong indicates that in the future cross-strait negotiations and interactions should proceed without setting preconditions. This is the only way to uphold the Taiwan's hard-won democratic achievement, the due sovereign dignity of the country, and the welfare of Taiwan's 23 million people, and thereby achieve mutual benefit and a win-win outcome for both sides. In the future, negotiations on and the promotion of various issues should be concretely carried out on the existing basis of government planning and assessment. No person on either side should preclude the involvement of government authority and privately engage in negotiations.
April 13, 2008
While attending the Fifth Alumnus Assembly of the Ketagalan Institute, President Chen Shui-bian states that cross-strait dialogues and negotiations must adhere to the four major principles of "sovereignty, democracy, peace and parity" in order to accord with the interests of the Taiwanese people. However, China has held to a five-pronged strategy of "dwarfing Taiwan, localizing Taiwan, marginalizing Taiwan, stripping the sovereignty of Taiwan, and degovernmentalizing Taiwan." In view of this, the Boao Forum and Hu-Siew Meeting are worthy of attention.
April 15, 2008
During a review of the Marine Corps, President Chen Shui-bian states that China has never relinquished its ambition to militarily attack and annex Taiwan. Over the past 19 years, Beijing has increased military spending at a rapid double-digit annual pace. The military balance across the Taiwan Strait not only has tilted in China's favor, but Beijing's rapid military expansion exceeds China's self-defense needs. China is advancing toward a position of regional military hegemony. President Chen also indicates that he welcomes and supports any actions conducive to peace, security and stability in the Taiwan Strait. However, he also firmly believes that a strong self-defense capability, and not relying on the unilateral goodwill of an enemy, is the only shield and foundation for defending and ensuring lasting peace in the Taiwan Strait.
April 17, 2008
In a reception with foreign dignitaries in Taiwan to participate in the International Conference on Taiwan's Sovereign Status, President Chen Shui-bian states that the two sides of the Taiwan Strait, Taiwan and China, or the Republic of China and the People's Republic of China, are two sovereign, independent countries, with neither side exercising jurisdiction over the other. The two sides of the Strait are by no means part of "one divided China, currently under different jurisdictions." In working to normalize cross-strait relations, it is necessary to insist on the four principles of sovereignty, democracy, peace, and parity. We can put aside disputes over sovereignty, but cannot denegrate ourselves to the point of effectively putting aside and giving up our sovereignty.
April 18, 2008
Director Chang Liang-jen of the MAC Department of Planning states during an interview states that Beijing has used various tactics to polarize Taiwan and reduce consciousness of enemy movements on military, diplomatic, economic and cultural psychological levels. The ROC side cannot ignore the influence of China's psychological warfare on diversifying and creating differences among the people. The purpose of the "anti three warfares" is to strengthen all-out defense consciousness, to take countermeasures against the motivation behind mainland China's various strategies, to make the people clearly aware of China's plans, and to establish a firm psychological line of defense.
May 13, 2008
President Chen Shui-bian expresses concern over the earthquake disaster in the Wenzhou area of Sichuan, China. He also states that, as a part of the international community, Taiwan is willing to actively take part in the rescue and reconstruction effort along with the international community based on the spirit that "we are all in the same boat."
May 13, 2008
During a briefing on the planning and coordination of assistance related to the Sichuan earthquake, MAC Chairman Chen Ming-tong states that the MAC is actively furthering its understanding of the situation regarding Taiwanese businesspeople in Sichuan. The Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) has also mobilized the Taiwanese Businessmen's Association, Travel Agent Association of the R.O.C., Taiwan and other organizations to provide further assistance and relief. The ROC side further informs the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS) that it is willing to encourage Taiwan's search and rescue personnel to go to Sichuan to provide assistance. If mainland China agrees, the ROC 's search and rescue team can travel to Sichuan via direct charter flights to assist the disaster victims.
May 20, 2008
The 12th-term president of the Republic of China Ma Ying-jeou delivers an address on the theme of "Taiwan's Renaissance" at his inaugural ceremony. In the address, President Ma calls upon the two sides to pursue reconciliation and truce in both cross-strait and international arenas. The two sides should help and respect each other in international organizations and activities. In light of their common Chinese heritage, people on both sides should do their utmost to jointly contribute to the international community without engaging in vicious competition and the waste of resources. Moreover, dignity, autonomy, pragmatism and flexibility should be Taiwan's guiding principles when developing foreign relations and seeking international space.
May 21, 2008
At an international media press conference, President Ma Ying-jeou states that party-to-party contact can serve as a second track in cross-strait relations. Naturally, this track should not conflict with the current track (the Straits Exchange Foundation and Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait). At the same time, the government will implement the policy of "no unification, no independence, and no use of force." "No unification" means that, during his term of office, the President will not engage with the Chinese mainland in talks over the issue of unification of Taiwan and the mainland. Secondly, "no independence" means that the President will not support the promotion of de jure Taiwan independence. "No use of force" needs no explanation. The President says he will maintain the status quo across the Taiwan Strait under the framework of the Constitution of the Republic of China. We maintain the status quo, so the status remains the same.
May 21, 2008
MAC Chairperson Lai Shin-yuan states at the Legislative Yuan that her understanding is that the 1992 Consensus is "one China, respective interpretations" and "one China, respective interpretations" is the 1992 Consensus. She also hopes that Article 38 of the Act Governing Relations Between People of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area can be promptly revised, so that renminbi-NT dollar conversion can be implemented in time for the July launch of mainland tourist visits to Taiwan and the cross-strait weekend charter flights policy.
May 22, 2008
Speaking at a tea reception for the local media, President Ma Ying-jeou says he welcomes mainland investment in Taiwan, though the type of investment welcomed is naturally so-called "green-field investment" and not stock market or short-term speculation, including investment in real estate and the i-Taiwan 12 Projects.
May 22, 2008
Regarding China's formal response to the content of President Ma Ying-jeou's inaugural address, the MAC issues a press release indicating that the two sides should continue to adhere to the principle of "shelving controversies and pursuing a win-win situation," promote early resumption of institutionalized negotiations between the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) and Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS), and jointly turn a new page in cross-strait peace and co-prosperity.
May 23, 2008
During a meeting with foreign correspondents stationed in Taiwan, MAC Chairperson Lai Shin-yuan indicates that the ROC side would welcome Taiwan Affairs Office Director Chen Yunlin to visit Taiwan if he is willing. She also states that the issues of weekend charter flights and mainland tourist visits to Taiwan would be given priority in negotiations when talks between the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) and Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait(ARATS) resume. As for other issues, a decision will be made based on the situation after SEF-ARATS talks restart. The site for resuming talks will not be a problem so long as the two sides are in agreement. As for the possibility of Xinhua News Agency and People's Daily basing correspondents in Taiwan, the MAC is not opposed to this in principle.
May 24, 2008
During a tea reception with Kuomintang (KMT) Chairman Wu Poh-hsiung and other members of a delegation visiting mainland China, President Ma Ying-jeou states that in the future, the official communication channel between the ROC and the Mainland side lies in the negotiations conducted between the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) and the mainland's Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS) under the MAC's authorization. This channel is established by a private organization authorized by the government. The platform between Kuomintang (KMT) and the Communist Party of China (CPC) was established three years ago, which is the second channel and it can supplement efforts through the first channel in promoting cross-strait policy. The government welcomes and supports this kind of development.
May 29, 2008
The MAC issues a press release indicating that pragmatic cross-strait negotiations are a major step in establishing mutual trust. The MAC emphasizes that the ROC side has always insisted on the policy position of resuming institutionalized cross-strait negotiations. In the future, cross-strait negotiations and interactions will be administered according to law and return to institutional norms. This will facilitate cross-strait relations to be gradually developed in a direction that is conducive to the establishment of mutual trust between the two sides. The MAC also reiterates that the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) is the only organization authorized by the government to hold negotiations with mainland China on issues involving government authority. On May 26, the government formally authorized the SEF to hold negotiations with the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS) on three issues, including the implementation of cross-strait passenger and cargo charter flights and the opening of Taiwan to mainland tourists. This is the first step toward establishing mutual trust between the two sides and promoting benign cross-strait interactions.
May 29, 2008
During a meeting with US Congresswoman Jean Schmidt at the Office of the President, President Ma Ying-jeou states that Taiwan wants to serve in the role of "peacemaker" rather than "troublemaker." Based on maintaining Taiwan's autonomy and dignity, President Ma will do everything possible to improve cross-strait relations and create a platform for equal communication and peace and harmony.
June 4, 2008
President Ma Ying-jeou expresses his thoughts on the 19th anniversary of the Tiananmen Square Crackdown. He states that Taiwan cares about the welfare of the 1.3 billion people of mainland China and hopes that mainland China will continue to move toward freedom, democracy and prosperity for all the people. This would pave the way for the long-term peaceful development of cross-strait relations.
June 5, 2008
In an interview with Japan's Yomiuri Shimbun, President Ma Ying-jeou states that many steps need to be taken before a Cross-Strait Common Market can be established. Cross-strait weekend charter flights and Mainland tourist visits to Taiwan are just a few small steps. As cross-strait transportation links become more convenient, exchanges between the two sides will certainly become more frequent. Complex and broad accompanying measures are also needed and will require step-by-step negotiations to accomplish. Taiwan hopes, moreover, that in the future the Mainland side will consider the thoughts of the ROC on the issue of missile deployment. Regarding discussion topics with the other side, President Ma states that economic issues will be discussed first and so-called political issues, perhaps including military issues, will be addressed later. If reconciliation is truly to be achieved, the two sides will need to discuss a cross-strait peace agreement.
June 9, 2008
In a reception with the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) negotiation mission, President Ma Ying-jeou states that the negotiations between the SEF and the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS) will focus on direct cross-strait weekend charter flights. In the future, negotiations can be broadened to include the issues of weekday charter flights and direct flights. There are still many details that need further discussion, which underscores the need to establish institutionalized channels. The two sides have agreed to resume negotiations on the basis of the "1992 Consensus." This is highly significant for "shelving controversies and finding commonalities despite differences."
June 9, 2008
In a meeting with Taiwan Solidarity Union (TSU) Chairman Huang Kun-huei, MAC Chairperson Lai Shin-yuan emphasizes that the greatest consensus in Taiwan is to safeguard Taiwan's identity and protect the interests of the Taiwanese people. Within this consensus, the MAC will make every effort to reconcile different positions and views to find the greatest common denominator.
June 10, 2008
Attending the 2008 Dragon Boat Festival gathering of Taiwanese businessmen, President Ma Ying-jeou expresses hope that cross-strait negotiations on various issues can be held after the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) and Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS) formally resume negotiations. In the future, the two sides should discuss issues related to the establishment of Mainland branches by Taiwan financial institutions, investment protection mechanisms, avoidance of double taxation, the establishment of high-tech standards, and dispute resolution mechanisms.
June 10, 2008
At the 2008 Dragon Boat Festival gathering of Taiwanese businessmen, MAC Chairperson Lai Shin-yuan indicates that, under the policy principle of "putting Taiwan first for the benefit of the people," the government will make Taiwan the core, make the world its vision, promote "dynamic adjustments to cross-strait economic and trade relations," and open up a new era for cross-strait economic and trade negotiations.
June 10, 2008
In a paper on "The ROC Government's Policy on Promoting Cross-strait Negotiations in the Current Phase," the MAC indicates that ROC government will resume negotiations with mainland China through the institutionalized mechanism of the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) and Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS). Such negotiations will proceed under the premise of "putting Taiwan first for the benefit of the people" and on the basis of the "1992 Consensus." Taiwan hopes that the two sides can adhere to the principle of "shelving controversies and pursuing a win-win situation." It is also hoped that once the SEF and ARATS resume institutionalized negotiations, the two sides can strike a balance in the joint pursuit of their respective interests, and thereby bring about a new era in cross-strait relations.
June 10, 2008
The MAC issues a press release stating that before Taiwan and mainland China sign a bilateral currency agreement, Taiwan will allow the trial implementation of NT dollar-renminbi conversion on a small scale and within a limited scope. The government will also allow Mainland visitors to convert RMB into NT dollars for use in Taiwan.
June 12, 2008
In a meeting with Wendell Weeks, chairman and CEO of US-based Corning Inc., President Ma Ying-jeou states that the two sides require a more systematic negotiation mechanism and should pursue a more stable state of affairs. He says that the new government has repeatedly given the message to neighboring countries that Taiwan will be a peacemaker.
June 12, 2008
Premier Liu Chao-shiuan expresses hope that, adhering to the principles of "shelving controversies and pursuing a win-win situation," the two sides of the Taiwan Strait will jointly work to realize the major policies of launching weekend charter flights and allowing Mainland tourist visits to Taiwan.
June 12, 2008
MAC Vice Chairman Johnnason Liu welcomes a visit to Taiwan by Chairman Chen Yunlin of mainland China's Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS) at an appropriate time. He also states that there is already a mechanism for exchange visits by responsible persons of the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) and Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS) under the communication framework between the two organizations. Vice Chairman Liu hopes that the institutionalized contact and negotiation mechanism between the SEF and the ARATS can be resumed after Chen Yunlin becomes chairman of the ARATS.
June 14, 2008
In a reception with the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) negotiation mission, President Ma Ying-jeou states that the negotiations between the SEF and the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Straits (ARATS) on weekend charter flights and Mainland tourist visits to Taiwan are a good start. However, further negotiations are needed to address the issues of new routes, cargo charter flights and weekday charter flights. President Ma hopes that the SEF will schedule future negotiation agendas according to the priority of issues so as to achieve the greatest benefit from cross-strait direct transportation links. The institutionalized communication channel established by the SEF and the ARATS can, in the future, be used for more diverse and tiered negotiations and discussions on issues of importance so as to accelerate the progress of talks between the two sides.
June 14, 2008
MAC Chairperson Lai Shin-yuan states that the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) delegation signed the "SEF-ARATS Minutes of Talks on Cross-Strait Charter Flights" and the "Cross-Strait Agreement Signed Between SEF and ARATS Concerning Mainland Tourists Traveling to Taiwan" with the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS) after negotiations with the latter under the principles of parity and dignity, as authorized by the government. The SEF has successfully completed its mission and laid a foundation for ongoing institutionalized negotiations across the Strait. Cross-strait weekend passenger charter flights and Mainland tourist visits to Taiwan are expected to begin in the near term and will provide a clear basis for follow-up negotiations on cargo charter flights.
June 18, 2008
In an interview with The New York Times, President Ma Ying-jeou states that economic relations between Taiwan and mainland China will develop rapidly over the next year or two, and not just in the areas of opening direct weekend charter flights and promoting tourism exchange. After the economic issues are resolved, other matters can be discussed, including the issues of restrictions on Taiwan's "international space" and cross-strait security. President Ma reiterates that for peaceful cross-strait negotiations to be possible, China must first withdraw its missiles and end the de jure state of hostilities between the two sides.
At the Annual Assembly of the Chinese National Association of Industry and Commerce (CNAIC), President Ma Ying-jeou emphasizes that the government should eliminate all unnecessary political obstructions to cross-strait economic relations. Taiwan also hopes in the future to negotiate with mainland China regarding a Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA).
June 24, 2008
During an interpellation at the Legislative Yuan, Premier Liu Chao-shiuan states that the formal channel between the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) and Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS) has been resumed. Before ARATS Chairman Chen Yunlin visits Taiwan, the SEF and the ARATS will discuss all of the relevant details, including forms of address. In negotiations with the other side, all agencies must uphold Taiwan's national dignity.
June 25, 2008
In a meeting with former US Secretary of Defense William Perry and a delegation from the National Committee on United States-China Relations, President Ma Ying-jeou states that Taiwan will be a peacemaker and will pursue peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. Taiwan's improvement in relations with mainland China will first begin in the realm of economics and gradually progress to seeking more international space for Taiwan. He adds that, ultimately, the two sides could in future discuss a peace treaty.
June 25, 2008
During a meeting with US dignitaries, MAC Chairperson Lai Shin-yuan indicates that the people of Taiwan have always aspired to participate in international organizations and activities in a dignified manner. Regrettably, however, mainland China still imposes manifold restrictions on the manner of Taiwan's participation in the World Health Organization (WHO) and Taiwan's name in international organizations. Chairperson Lai calls on the Beijing authorities to pragmatically face up to the reality between the two sides, to truly understand the thinking of the Taiwanese people, and to concretely show goodwill toward Taiwan's participation in international organizations and activities. Chairperson Lai hopes to see Taiwan have "true space" in the international community.
June 26, 2008
While attending the 2nd Session of the 4th Members' Meeting of the Taiwan Federation of Industry, Premier Liu Chao-shiuan emphasizes that mainland China is Taiwan's biggest overseas investment base and also its biggest export market. It is therefore necessary to pragmatically promote dynamic adjustments in cross-strait economic and trade relations, and also to bring about a new era for cross-strait economic and trade negotiations.
June 26, 2008
The Executive Yuan approves measures to open up cross-strait financial exchanges in order to develop Taiwan as an "Asia Pacific Assets Management and Capital-Raising Center" and promote the operations of a cross-strait financial supervision and management mechanism. Financial Supervisory Commission Vice Chairperson Susan Chang explains the following measures for adjusting and opening Mainland-bound investment:
- Fund-type foreign institutional investors will be exempted from submitting a declaration that investment capital is not from the Mainland Area.
- Domestic and Hong Kong exchange traded funds (EFTs) will be allowed to mutually list between the two sides.
- Enterprises listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (HKEx) may apply for secondary listings (including over-the-counter listings) in Taiwan and issue Taiwan Depository Receipts (TDRs) and other types of negotiable security.
- Securities firms will be allowed to invest directly in mainland China's fund management companies and futures companies and indirectly invest in mainland China's securities firms. Futures companies will be able to directly and indirectly invest in mainland China's futures companies, while securities investment trust companies will be allowed to invest directly or indirectly in mainland China's fund management companies.
- Restrictions on fund investment in overseas assets linked to mainland shares will be eased.
June 30, 2008
In an address at a military promotion ceremony, President Ma Ying-jeou states that mainland China is both a threat to and opportunity for Taiwan. Upholding Taiwan's security requires not only military preparation, but also the reduction of external threats.
June 30, 2008
The MAC's Council Meeting approves a proposal by the Government Information Office of the Executive Yuan to allow mainland China's Xinhua News Agency and People's Daily to base reporters in Taiwan. The allowable period of stay in Taiwan for Mainland reporters will be extended from the current one month to three months.