Mainland Affairs Council

July 1, 2005
Premier Frank Hsieh indicates in an exclusive interview with the "Voice of America" that during the course of the "rise of China," the status of both sides of the Strait will determine the development of cross-strait relations. If China's strategic goal is a peaceful rise and not to annihilate Taiwan, then Taiwan will not become a stumbling block to its so-called rise and both sides will achieve consensus and cooperation. The basic premise in the development of cross-strait relations is to maintain the status quo of the Republic of China. Both sides should consider the interests of the people on the basis of this status quo. China will not improve the development of cross-strait relations if it wants to demolish the Republic of China and threaten Taiwan. Due to many differences between the systems on both sides of the Strait, both sides must promote mutual understanding through communication in order to co-exist and engage in cooperation.

July 1, 2005
Straits Exchange Foundation Chairman Chang Chun-hsiung indicates in an exclusive interview that there is a need for institutionalized cross-strait negotiations to break the deadlock across the Strait. Chang states that since cross-strait dialogue is so important, the complicated political issues such as the "1992 Consensus" and the "one China" principle must be set aside first to facilitate more contacts and dialogues.

July 4, 2005
MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu indicates in an exclusive interview with the electronic media ETFM that regardless of whether President Chen Shui-bian visits China or Chinese leader Hu Jintao visits Taiwan, both sides will be required to set political conditions. "It might be easier for them to meet on an international occasion in a very casual manner."

July 5, 2005
In a special article, "Pursuing a Peaceful World; Realizing a Dream to be Free," President Chen Shui-bian indicates that China's enactment of the "anti-separation law," the so-called anti-secession law, in mid-March is a part of its military preparations targeted at Taiwan to attain its goal of "unification through the use of force." China has not only continued to expand its military strength and reinforced its deployment of ballistic missiles targeting Taiwan, but it has also conducted united front attacks against Taiwan's society in an attempt to disintegrate the unity within Taiwan. The most effective countermeasure now is to be prepared for danger during peaceful times. People must raise their consciousness of impending disaster, and strengthen their mental defenses and determination to resist the enemy.

July 5, 2005
China's Taiwan Affairs Office Director Chen Yunlin indicates during a meeting with Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) Vice Chairman P. K. Chiang that China hopes that both sides can make immediate contacts and hold negotiations on related issues such as the cargo and passenger charter flights during holidays or weekends for the information industry, as well as Taiwan's agricultural exports. He hopes to implement the consensus reached on all the items as soon as possible.

July 6, 2005
MAC Vice Chairman Michael Y. L. You indicates that the government welcomes any positive response of goodwill on issues regarding the cargo and passenger charter flights, Taiwan's agricultural exports to China, and relaxation measures for tourism. However, we hope that China will not remain at the stage of verbal propaganda, but show its sincerity through actions. If the Chinese authorities are sincere, then they should authorize an institution that can be trusted to conduct the related negotiations with the agency authorized by Taiwan.

July 6, 2005
Premier Frank Hsieh indicates in an Executive Yuan session that both sides of the Strait must seriously address the joint anti-crime crackdown and conduct negotiations as soon as possible. Both sides should not let the cross-strait political situation become a shelter for criminals. Further efforts should be made to deal with matters such as the regular mutual visits between law enforcers, mechanism for mutual exchange of information on crime cases, and arrest and repatriation of wanted criminals, Negotiations with China must be conducted as soon as possible.

July 7, 2005
President Chen Shui-bian indicates while inspecting the Tung-hsin No. 17 military exercises that the principle of "reconciliation does not mean retreating; standing firm does not mean opposing" is the basic idea behind the promotion of reconciliation between the political parties in Taiwan and normalization of cross-strait relations. No matter how frequent exchanges in trade and economy, culture, religion, and sports take place between both sides, it is an undeniable fact that China has never abandoned its attempt to attack Taiwan by force. This has constituted a significant and immediate threat to the 23 million Taiwanese people.

July 7, 2005
Vice Premier Wu Yi of the Chinese State Council reveals at a meeting with Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) Vice Chairman P. K. Chiang that the Taiwan Affairs Office will set up an additional Appeals and Coordination Bureau to specifically manage the cases involving unjust treatment of Taiwanese people in China and other conflicts. Wu Yi confirms his assumption as the head of the Inter-ministerial Consultation Group of the Central Government (the Cross-Strait Trade and Economic Task Force of the Central Government). To promote substantive exchanges in cross-strait trade and economy, China's central government has recently formulated nine goals for its work on Taiwan affairs: (1) promote cross-strait cargo and passenger charter flights during holidays and on weekends, as well as regular flights; (2) continue safeguarding the investments of Taiwanese businessmen; (3) encourage and promote cross-strait cooperation between the service sectors from both sides of the Strait, including the financial, banking, and transportation sectors; (4) reinforce cross-strait agricultural exchanges; (5) establish a mechanism to provide services to Taiwanese businessmen; (6) set up an Appeal and Consultation Bureau under the Taiwan Affairs Office; (7) promote direct investments by Taiwanese businessmen in China, and discourage indirect investments through third areas; (8) expand cross-strait talent exchanges; and (9) strengthen cross-strait personnel exchanges.

July 7, 2005
During an address delivered at the cross-strait forum on cooperation attended by 200 representatives from counties and small cites across the Strait, China's Taiwan Affairs Office Deputy Director Sun Yafu indicates that in order to promote cross-strait dialogues and negotiations, the resumption of cross-strait dialogues and negotiations under the "one China" principle can embody the sincerity to solve the problems and is conducive to the ultimate solution of the issues. Under the circumstance that cross-strait dialogues and negotiations cannot be currently resumed, negotiations between the private sectors on both sides of the Strait can be vigorously promoted to resolve the actual problems concerning cross-strait economic exchanges and personnel exchanges.

July 11, 2005
MAC Spokesperson Michael Y. L. You indicates that negotiations that involve the authorities on both sides should be conducted between the agencies authorized and accepted by both governments. This should be the basic condition in any negotiations. China's unilateral designation of an agency to conduct negotiations is an attempt to exclude the Taiwanese government from exercising its authority. This is China's united front tactics, which Taiwan's political parties and farmers must have already experienced.

July 12, 2005
While receiving Randall G. Schriver, former U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Asian and Pacific Affairs, President Chen Shui-bian comments on U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice's recent trip to China and her call for direct dialogue between the Chinese government and Taiwan's duly-elected government, and says that that is the best way to resolve cross-strait differences. If China wants to "de-governmentalize" cross-strait interaction by only conducting dialogues with Taiwan's civic groups and opposition political parties, such a development would not be conducive to resolving the problems.

July 12, 2005
Hu Jintao, General Secretary of the Chinese Communist Party Central Committee, proposes four recommendations for contemporary cross-strait relations during his meeting with a New Party delegation headed by Chairman Yok Mu-ming, namely, (1) the joint promotion of the great revival of the Chinese race; (2) the firm adherence to the "one China" principle, (3) the firm opposition and suppression of "Taiwanese independence", and (4) the earnest care for and preservation of the immediate interests of the Taiwanese compatriots.

July 13, 2005
MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu indicates in an exclusive interview with the China News Services that whenever China addresses cross-strait issues, it has always insisted that Taiwan accept the "one China" principle and the "1992 Consensus" if the issues involve politics. If China's position and attitude toward Taiwan do not change, then he doubts the possibility of mutual visits between the leaders on both sides of the Strait.

July 14, 2005
President Chen Shui-bian indicates at a forum held in Chiayi County that he has always considered the long-term interests of farmers. He is not opposed to Taiwan's agricultural exports to China. However, in order to protect the interests of the farmers, he insists that both sides should conduct government-to-government talks or negotiations between agencies authorized by the government. By no means should any individual or institution be appointed by China unilaterally as the representative for negotiations.

July 18, 2005
Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu emphasizes that in the future MAC will make efforts to invite the Chinese officials to negotiate on substantive issues, including the joint anti!Vcrime crackdown, repatriation of stowaways, establishment of a currency settlement mechanism, signing of an agreement to protect China-bound investments by Taiwanese businessmen, avoidance of double taxation, and creation of a financial supervision and management mechanism. He states that as long as China does not set any preconditions, Taiwan is willing to negotiate with China on any non-political issues. Based on this, both sides can gradually move toward discussing political issues.

July 18, 2005
The Taiwan Affairs Office, the Ministry of Commerce, and the Ministry of Agriculture jointly announce the official resumption of the Cross-Strait Agricultural Cooperation Experimental Zone in Fujian Province.

July 19, 2005
While receiving the delegation of the French Senate's Taiwan-France Friendship Group and its Chairwoman, Monique Papon, President Chen Shui-bian indicates: the Republic of China is an independent sovereign country; its sovereignty is vested in its 23 million people; and any change in Taiwan's future can only be decided by the 23 million people of Taiwan. The president does not exclude the possibilities of forming any political relations with China in the future. The most important thing is to respect the free will and democratic choice of the 23 million Taiwanese people. The goals which the 23 million people pursue are to preserve their hard fought democratic achievements, economic prosperity and progress of society.

July 21, 2005
MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu indicates at the Agricultural Entrepreneurship Leaders' Seminar that China's implementation of zero-tariff measures on Taiwan fruits is a united front tactic which the government should be fully aware of. China's implementation of zero-tariff measures on thirteen Taiwan fruits is basically a united front tactic which demands that Taiwan simultaneously allow China's agricultural exports to Taiwan under the framework of the World Trade Organization. The government must take precautions.

July 22, 2005
While presiding over a high-level conference on the "Precautions and Countermeasures Against Illegal Activities of Unlawful Chinese Elements in Taiwan," President Chen Shui-bian issues a directive for the responsible authorities to actively assess and improve the regulations, systems, management, and enforcement of the current entry procedures of Chinese nationals, investigation of cases involving illegal entries and cross-strait crimes, as well as the joint anti-crime crackdown. If necessary, laws must be evaluated and amended, manpower must be adjusted, and they should be strictly enforced. This is to establish a more complete mechanism for the security management of Chinese nationals in Taiwan.

July 25, 2005
While receiving Kim Jong-hoon, the Special Envoy of South Korean President Roh Moo-hyun, President Chen Shui-bian indicates that cross-strait reconciliation and dialogue are the common expectations and appeals of the international community. The informal leaders' summit of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation is not a political event. Therefore, it is the best platform to discuss regional economic cooperation and for leaders across the Taiwan Strait to meet and engage in dialogue.

July 25, 2005
In an address delivered at the annual conference of the Council of Taiwan Chambers of Commerce in Asia, President Chen Shui-bian emphasizes that there is a need to strengthen the mainstream value of "Taiwan First," enhance the identity of Taiwan's development, and safeguard the Taiwanese people's collective experience of freedom and democracy. This is to overcome the ethnic, provincial, and unification vs. independence ideologies, and actively form a new awareness of national community.

July 26, 2005
In a videoconference with the Foreign Correspondents' Club of Japan, President Chen Shui-bian indicates that despite China's military intimidation and missile threats, the Taiwanese government will continue to actively seek to establish a new balance of power that supports Taiwan's democracy and cross-strait peace. There are three objectives for establishing this new balance of power in the Taiwan Strait. The first is to ensure that the democracy of Taiwan-a core member of the world's community of democracies-is not threatened or destroyed by China through "non-peaceful means." The second is to join other members of the global "community of democracies" in assisting non-democratic nations, such as China, to democratize. The third is to explore ways to normalize relations and resume dialogue with China under a peace and stability framework for cross-strait interaction, thereby promoting stability and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region.

July 26, 2005
In an interview with the media, MAC Spokesperson Michael Y. L. You indicates that President Chen Shui-bian's recent statements have clearly revealed the truth behind the crux of the cross-strait trade and economic issues. President Chen has reiterated the consensus reached at the Economic Development Advisory Conference, which is "richly cultivating Taiwan while reaching out to the world." At the same time, he has also emphasized that "neither proactive liberalization nor effective management must be overemphasized at the expense of the other" and that "the promotion of the normalization of cross-strait trade and economic relations must be focused on preserving Taiwan's long-term competitive edge."

July 26, 2005
MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu indicates that if the other side is sincere, it must respect the decision of Taiwan and accept the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA) as the contacting and integrating window authorized to represent Taiwan.

July 28, 2005
While inspecting anti-special forces attack and anti-airborne attack drills in Taichung, President Chen Shui-bian states that his proposal to build a "new power balance that supports 'Taiwan democracy' and 'cross-strait peace' over the two sides of the Taiwan Strait" is to ensure that Taiwan's democracy will not be destroyed by China's "non-peaceful means." At the same time, China could commence its democratic process through the efforts of the world's "democratic groups." This is the only way for both sides of the Taiwan Strait to engage in peaceful dialogue and interaction. Permanent cross-strait peace and stability will not be an unilateral expectation of Taiwan.

July 28, 2005
While attending a forum held in Kaohsiung City to discuss Taiwanese fruits exports to China, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu announces that the government has officially authorized the Taiwan External Trade Development Center (TAITRA) to hold negotiations with China on matters related to Taiwanese fruits exports to China. Chairman Wu also emphasizes that the travel associations on both sides have already contacted each other and reached an initial consensus on the visits to Taiwan by Chinese tourists. The government will authorize the Travel Agent Association of Taiwan, R.O.C. to assist in making contacts and arrangements for related negotiations matters.

July 28, 2005
MAC Spokesperson Michael Y. L. You emphasizes that the zero-tariff measures are only a "unilateral administrative action" on the part of the Chinese authorities. Although its intention contains the goodwill of "low cost," there is still an "opportunity" for cross-strait negotiations. The government will authorize the Taiwan External Trade Development Center (TAITRA) to negotiate on the validity period of the measures and whether there will be other related policies involved. Other issues that need to be negotiated include the quarantine and inspection of fruits and market access.

July 28, 2005
The MAC releases a set of explanations on Taiwanese fruits exports to China indicating that when facing China's united front tactics targeted at the Taiwanese agricultural sector, the government has proposed its basic position of "one principle and three arrangements" in consideration of protecting the short-, mid-, and long-term interests of the farmers. The "one principle" refers to the government's all-out promotion of Taiwanese agricultural exports. Taiwan's China-bound exports are only a part of its global marketing strategy. The "three arrangements" refer to the following: (1) the authorization of the Taiwan External Trade Development Center (TAITRA) as the integrating window for Taiwan's agricultural exports. The local Farmers' Associations will coordinate among themselves the supply of products and the TAITRA will take responsibility for the marketing of these products in the world market, including China. (2) MAC, the Council of Agriculture and other relevant agencies will form a specialized negotiations delegation and authorize the TAITRA to make the related arrangements for the negotiations of various issues. For example, issues that involve the exercise of government authority, tariff, quarantine, inspection, and customs clearance, (3) In order to ensure the quality of high-priced fresh fruits and effectively control the time needed for transportation, there is a need for expediting the promotion of the Freight Facilitation Measures, including the transportation of agricultural products. Negotiations should be conducted as soon as possible to make substantive arrangements for the implementation of the "two-way, reciprocal, and non-stop" charter flights.

July 28, 2005
MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu announces that the government has officially authorized the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA) to further communicate with the relevant Chinese agencies on issues related to the export of fresh fruits to China and implementation of facilitation measures. It is hoped that after Taiwan has a better understanding of China's intentions and related policies, both sides can conduct negotiations in time and make appropriate arrangements.

July 28, 2005
Chinese Ministry of Commerce spokesperson announces that to expand the scope of Taiwanese fruit imports in China, zero-tariff measures will be officially implemented as of August 1, 2005 on fifteen fruits from the Taiwan Area. These fruits include pineapples, lychees, papayas, starfruits, mangos, guavas, wax apples, betel nuts, pomelos, dates, coconuts, loquats, plums, peaches, and persimmons.

July 29, 2005
MAC Spokesperson Michael Y. L. You indicates at a regular press briefing that the key issues in cross-strait exchanges must still be addressed by exercising government authority, or authorized agencies by both governments. Only when both sides sincerely conduct face-to-face dialogues and make related arrangements will the negotiations be properly conducted in the end.

August 1, 2005
MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu indicates that if the people of Penghu Island demand direct transportation links for religious purposes, the government can consider it on a special case basis. Other matters can also be addressed on a special case basis.

August 1, 2005
MAC Vice Chairman Johnnason Liu indicates that there was a record high of 125 violations involving Chinese professionals visiting Taiwan during the period between January and July this year. The inviting civic organizations and Chinese visitors must abide by Taiwan's related regulations, to preserve the order of normalized cross-strait exchanges.

August 1, 2005
MAC indicates in a press release that after several years of cross-strait exchanges, China has gradually made a pragmatic adjustment of its publication policy, enabling both sides of the Strait to have the possibility of further cooperation. However, certain problems arise in the course of exchanges between the publishers from both sides of the Strait. For example, the competition for international copyright, Chinese publishers' infringement of Taiwan's copyright, and China's dwarfing of Taiwan in exchange activities. These problems have to be jointly resolved by both governments and publishers on both sides. In the future, the relevant government agencies and civic publishers can discuss how mutual interactions between publishers on both sides can progress in a positive direction, namely: strengthening the functions of the existing system of collecting and integrating information; actively searching for cooperative endeavors with publishers from abroad and in China to diversify entry channels into the Chinese market; and cooperating with China in promoting Chinese publications overseas.

August 2, 2005
While receiving the delegates of the Formosa Foundation of the United States, President Chen Shui-bian indicates that the four stages of the Republic of China's evolution refer to: the Republic of China as established in China; the Republic of China is transferred from China to Taiwan; the Republic of China on Taiwan during former President Lee Teng-hui's term; and "the Republic of China is Taiwan" after the Democratic Progressive Party became the ruling party in 2000.

August 3, 2005
Premier Frank Hsieh announces that due to the rise of international oil prices, Taiwanese aircraft are allowed to fly to a third destination over Chinese territorial air space. Direct cross-strait cargo charter flights and direct passenger charter flights during special holidays are allowed, and agencies have been authorized to conduct simultaneous negotiations on both cargo and passenger charter flights with China.

August 3, 2005
While receiving Daniel Walther, Treasurer of the national board of Germany's Christian Democratic Party, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu urges the Chinese authorities to allow Taiwan's aircrafts to fly over China's territorial airspace and conduct negotiations with the Taiwanese government on the cargo charter flights and passenger charter flights on major holidays and for other special needs as soon as possible.

August 3, 2005
While receiving students from Hong Kong and Macao, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu indicates that he hopes both sides could engage in contacts to discuss the three issues: the cargo charter flights; Taiwanese agricultural exports to China; and visits to Taiwan by Chinese tourists. The discussion should be held as soon as possible based on the model of the "Macao talks." He also hopes that both sides can conduct negotiations on issues such as the joint crime crackdowns, repatriation of Chinese stowaways, and mutual establishment of banks on both sides.

August 3, 2005
Premier Frank Hsieh announces the approval for implementing cross-strait direct cargo charter flights and direct passenger charter flights during special holidays, and authorizing certain agencies to conduct simultaneous negotiations with China on the cargo and passenger charter flights.

August 3, 2005
The Taiwan Affairs Office Spokesperson indicates that China welcomes Taiwan's approval of the simultaneous negotiations on the cargo and passenger charter flights.

August 4, 2005
Premier Frank Hsieh indicates that the government cannot allow Chinese aircrafts to fly over Taiwan's territorial airspace at present. Premier Frank Hsieh emphasizes that Taiwan will only consider opening its airspace if China abandons its threat of using force against Taiwan and both sides sign a peace agreement. Otherwise, it will be impossible to for Taiwan to open its airspace.

August 4, 2005
A MAC press release indicates the hope that both sides could smoothly conduct negotiations on the charter flights to create opportunities for positive cross-strait interaction. MAC, and the Ministry of Transportation and Communications and other relevant agencies, will immediately initiate the negotiations mechanism to facilitate preparations for necessary arrangements, in accordance with the policy directive announced by Premier Frank Hsieh on June 13, 2005, during the Dragon Boat Festival celebration event for Taiwanese businessmen in China. However, in consideration of China's position, hasty preparation and certain operational difficulties occurred during this year's Lunar New Year charter flights have resulted in a need to make immediate preparations. Therefore, the government has agreed to conduct joint negotiations on the cargo and passenger charter flights.

August 4, 2005
The Taiwan Affairs Office Spokesperson indicates that the Taiwanese leaders have recently issued statements again on Taiwanese independence, instigated cross-strait confrontation, and created new tensions, which are "contrary to" the direction of the recent developments in cross-strait relations. At present, compatriots on both sides of the Strait are working to promote further development in cross-strait civic exchanges and economic and cultural exchanges. There have also been expectations for the immediate implementation of cross-strait cargo and passenger charter flights and allowing Chinese tourists to visit Taiwan, to promote peaceful and stable development of cross-strait relations.

August 5, 2005
China's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Liu Jianchao indicates that with regard to the Japanese government's permanent exemption of the requirement for Taiwanese tourists to apply for a visa to visit Japan, he hopes that Japan will uphold its promise to China on the Taiwan issue as contained in three documents of the "Sino-Japanese Joint Declaration."

August 6, 2005
While attending the fourth anniversary celebration of the establishment of the Taiwan Solidarity Union, President Chen Shui-bian proposes the "one principle, three adherences and five oppositions" as the guidelines in addressing cross-strait affairs. The "one principle" refers to "protecting Taiwan," "protecting Taiwan's sovereignty," and conducting dialogues and negotiations with China under the principles of "democracy, parity, and peace." The "three adherences" refer to upholding the ideals of democratic reform, upholding Taiwan's mainstream identity, upholding the mission to transform Taiwan into a normal, integral, progressive, beautiful, and great nation. The "five oppositions" refer to: the opposition against China's attempt to annex Taiwan; the opposition against transforming Taiwan into a local government like Hong Kong and Macao; the opposition against the so-called "1992 consensus" founded on the "one China" and "one country, two systems" policies, the opposition against any force that divides the country's sovereignty and deprives the Taiwanese people of their right to free choice; and the opposition against China's so-called "anti-separation law" which intends to use "non-peaceful measures" to resolve the Taiwan issue.

August 9, 2005
In an exclusive interview with the Trud of Russia, President Chen Shui-bian indicates that the successful integration of the European Union was established on the foundation of the four principles of democracy, parity, peace, and economics. We also hope to create an environment conducive to peaceful development and free choice. As long as there is consent of the Taiwanese people, the possibility of establishing any form of cross-strait political relationship is not excluded. What is unfortunate is that China, in promoting cross-strait reconciliation and dialogue has never abided by any of the four principles and spirit responsible for the integration of the European Union. It has even violated them in dealing with Taiwan.

August 10, 2005
MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu indicates that the government has recently planned the promotion of the cross-strait cargo charter flights, relaxed the policy to allow Chinese tourists to visit Taiwan, and facilitated Taiwanese agricultural exports to China. It has also considered China's position by implementing important measures that promote cross-strait relations such as allowing negotiations on cargo charter flights and passenger charter flights to be held simultaneously and allowing Taiwanese aircrafts to fly over Chinese territorial airspace. These have not only shown the government's consistent position in promoting positive cross-strait interaction, but more importantly demonstrated Taiwan's unwavering sincerity in creating opportunities for conducting cross-strait negotiations.

August 10, 2005
MAC issues a press release indicating that in order to reinforce cross-strait media exchanges and interflow of information, the government has officially announced that it will allow the reporters of China's Southern Metropolis Daily and the Xinmin Evening News to station in Taiwan for news coverage. Both news agencies can begin contacting the inviting agencies in Taiwan in accordance with the related regulations.

August 12, 2005
MAC Vice Chairman and Spokesperson Michael Y. L. You announces during a regular press briefing that the government has officially written the Taipei Airlines Association on August 2, 2005, authorizing it to serve as the window for handling simultaneous negotiations on cross-strait cargo and passenger charter flights, and to conduct initial contacts and arrange the related matters.

August 12, 2005
MAC Vice Chairman and Spokesperson Michael Y. L. You announces during a regular press briefing that the government has officially written the Taipei Airlines Association on August 2, 2005, authorizing it to serve as the window for handling simultaneous negotiations on cross-strait cargo and passenger charter flights, and to conduct initial contacts and arrange the related matters.

August 12, 2005
PRC Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Kong Quan indicates that Taiwan "is not qualified to join the United Nations by any name or in any form." The U.N. Charter and Resolution No. 2758 of the U.N. General Assembly must be respected and maintained.

August 15, 2005
In an exclusive interview with Greg Sheridan, Chief Editor of the international edition of the Australian, Australia's largest national daily, President Chen Shui-bian indicates that, "under the principles of popular sovereignty and self-determination, whether Taiwan unifies with China must be decided upon by the twenty-three million Taiwanese people." At the same time, he explains that, "The Republic of China on Taiwan and the People's Republic of China on China are two different and separately-governed countries. Each side does not hold jurisdiction over the sovereignty of the other side." "Any changes in the future of Taiwan can only be decided by the twenty-three million Taiwanese people. We are not excluding any possibility in the future development of cross-strait relations."

August 15, 2005
Chinese Ambassador to the United Nations Wang Guangya writes U.N. Secretary-General Kofi Annan indicating that Taiwan is a part of China, and that China's representation in the United Nations includes Taiwan. Therefore, there is simply no such issue as the so-called "Taiwan's representation in the United Nations."

August 15, 2005
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 11th Cross-strait Academic Symposium on China's Modernization, Taiwan Affairs Office Deputy Director Sun Yafu indicates that they will continue to encourage and promote cross-strait civic exchanges and promote comprehensive cross-strait economic cooperation, in order to facilitate the negotiation between civic sectors across the Strait on the issues regarding the cross-strait cargo and passenger charter flights, and help promote direct cross-strait "Three-Links." They will continue to conduct exchanges and dialogue with the Taiwanese political parties, organizations, and individual representatives who recognize the "1992 Consensus," oppose "Taiwanese independence," and advocate the development of cross-strait relations. They will also listen to the opinions of the Taiwanese compatriots and people from various sectors. They will continue to work to resume cross-strait dialogue and negotiations on the basis of the "1992 Consensus." They will conduct negotiations to officially terminate cross-strait hostilities and reach a peace agreement. A peace and stability framework for cross-strait interactions will be established, including the creation of a confidence building measures. These measures are aimed at facilitating the discussion of a common market across the Strait and establishing long-term and stable mechanisms for the convenience and liberalization of cross-strait trading (a cross-strait free trade zone). They are also aimed at promoting the discussion of Taiwan's participation in international activities, which is an important concern to the Taiwanese people, including giving priority to discuss Taiwan's participation at the World Health Organization.

August 16, 2005
A MAC press release indicates that the statement released by China's Taiwan Affairs Office Director Chen Yunlin on August 16, 2005, regarding the cross-strait cargo and passenger charter flights has in essence responded to Premier Frank Hsieh's statement on August 3. MAC welcomes Chen's response and hopes that China would do what it says by commencing negotiations with Taiwan on matters related to the cargo and passenger charter flights as soon as possible.

August 16, 2005
A MAC press release indicates that the statement released by the Chinese State Council's Taiwan Affairs Office Director Chen Yunlin on August 16, 2005, regarding the cross-strait cargo and passenger charter flights has in essence responded to Premier Frank Hsieh's statement on August 3. MAC welcomes Chen's response and hopes that China would do what it says by commencing negotiations with Taiwan on matters related to the cargo and passenger charter flights as soon as possible.

August 16, 2005
Director Chen Yunlin of Chinese State Council's Taiwan Affairs Office states in a meeting with Executive Director Tseng Yung-chuan of the Central Policy Committee of the Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) that the direct cross-strait air transportation links can follow the same model employed at the negotiations on the Lunar New Year charter flights this year in Macao. Discussions will be held as soon as possible between the Cross-strait Air Transportation Exchange Commission of the China Civil Aviation Association and Taipei Airlines Association, to reach a consensus on the technical and operational aspects and make related arrangements.

August 19, 2005
MAC Spokesperson Michael Y. L. You indicates that, "being well-prepared in operating the cross-strait cargo and passenger charter flights is an important foundation for the well-managed implementation of the cross-strait direct transportation links and commencement of the 'Three-Links.'" He reminds the Chinese authorities to conduct pragmatic negotiations with Taiwan on the cargo and passenger charter flights as soon as possible to materialize them immediately.

August 19, 2005
The Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) indicates that it has been authorized by the responsible authorities to write China's Association for Relations across the Taiwan Strait (ASART) to request the ARATS to immediately relay to the relevant Chinese agencies that all Chinese vessels entering Taiwan territorial sea water without any prior permit shall be asked to leave.

August 23, 2005
Presiding over the 47th anniversary celebrations of the victory of the August 23 War at Kinmen, President Chen Shui-bian indicates that, war should not be waged at the expense of "cross-strait peace." "Taiwanese democracy" should never be made an excuse for China's attacks and intimidations at Taiwan. Only by establishing a new balance of power across the Taiwan Strait that supports "Taiwanese democracy" and "cross-strait peace" will positive cross-strait dialogue and interaction be guaranteed.

August 23, 2005
Speaking at the Forum on Cross-strait Relations, Deputy Director Sun Yafu of the Taiwan Affairs Office indicates that China is pushing ahead its amendment of policies to relax the conditions to allow Taiwanese compatriots to gain employment in China. In the future, Taiwanese graduates from Chinese colleges and universities will be able to gain employment in China.

August 24, 2005
Officials of the Taiwan Affairs Office, the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Finance, and the State Development Planning Commission announce at a press conference held by the Taiwan Affairs Office the following: 1. The policy regarding the tuition fees of Taiwanese students is adjusted. Starting in autumn 2005, Taiwanese undergraduate and graduate students in M.A. and Ph.D. programs who have been accepted into China's colleges and universities and research institutes will pay the same amount of tuition fees as local students. 2. Scholarships for Taiwanese students will be set up. Starting in 2005, special scholarships will be granted to Taiwanese undergraduate and graduate students in M.A. and Ph.D. programs who study at colleges and universities and research institutes in China. 3. Special funding will be granted to China's colleges and universities and research institutes accepting Taiwanese students.

August 25, 2005
Deputy Director Wang Zaixi of the Taiwan Affairs Office indicates at the opening ceremony of the Sixth Cross-strait Relations Forum that the compatriots on both sides of the Strait must be united to firmly oppose against "Taiwanese independence" and promote the peaceful and stable development of cross-strait relations, to create a positive environment conducive to cross-strait exchanges. China will continue to support and encourage cross-strait economic and cultural exchanges, as well as personnel exchanges. The youth on both sides of the Strait represent the future and hope and are an important force in the promotion and development of cross-strait relations. They must cooperate together in eliminating unfavorable factors and bravely promote further expansion of cross-strait exchanges.

August 26, 2005
Speaking at the Small- and Medium-sized Enterprises Laws and Regulations Forum, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu indicates that China insisted on enacting the "anti-separation law" (the so-called anti-secession law) in the middle of March this year despite heavy opposition from the Taiwanese people. On the other hand, it has also used "united front" tactics to launch a series of trade and economic warfares against Taiwan, leading cross-strait relations to an unprecedented and difficult test. However, the government remained devoted to working for cross-strait peace and development, promoting cross-strait reconciliation and negotiation, mutual interests and co-existence, and adopting substantive actions to show our determination.

August 26, 2005
MAC Vice Chairman David W. F. Huang indicates in a regular press briefing that after the enactment of the "anti-separation law" (the so-called anti-secession law), the Chinese authorities have made adjustments in their strategies toward Taiwan. They have made significant reinforcements especially in their efforts to distinguish target groups and devise programs aimed at them. This is worth our attention.

August 29, 2005
Taiwan Affairs Office Director Chen Yunlin indicates during a meeting in Beijing with the Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) delegation from Taiwan that the negotiations model employed in Macao for this year's Lunar New Year charter flights may be followed in the negotiations for the cross-strait cargo and passenger charter flights. Discussions will be held as soon as possible between the Cross-strait Air Transportation Exchange Commission of the China Civil Aviation Association and Taipei Airlines Association, to reach a consensus on the technical and operational aspects and make the related arrangements, so that the cross-strait cargo and passenger charter flights can be achieved successfully.

August 30, 2005
The Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) officially inaugurates the Service Center for Taiwanese Businessmen today. Premier Frank Hsieh indicates in his address that the Center officially established by SEF is the first of its kind in Taiwan which expands and provides specialized and comprehensive services to Taiwanese businessmen. This Center demonstrates the government's determination to look after Taiwanese businessmen's needs.

September 1, 2005
A document, "China's Endeavors for Arms Control, Disarmament, and Non-Proliferation," released by the Information Office of China's State Council indicates that the Taiwan issue involves China's core interests and that China is opposed to any form of assistance or protection rendered by any country to the Taiwanese region of China in defending itself from missile attacks.

September 2, 2005
While delivering an address at the inauguration ceremony of the Armed Forces' Day, President Chen Shui-bian indicates that the government will seek to achieve the greatest interest and wealth for the people under a cross-strait democratic, peaceful, and equal negotiation framework. As long as our people have confidence in the government, we shall not fall into the trap of the enemy's psychological attack of "using agriculture to intimidate the government" and "using the opposition to intimidate the administration."

September 2, 2005
Premier Frank Hsieh indicates in an interview with Asahi Shimbun that following the implementation of the cross-strait Lunar New Year charter flights this year, Taiwan will promote further negotiations with China on the cargo and passenger charter flights. He also states that after reaching an agreement with China, Taiwan will open its doors to Chinese tourists and intend to commence talks on the formulation of measures to prevent cross-strait crime.

September 2, 2005
With regard to the unfortunate death of Deputy Director Zhu Xiangdong of China's National Bureau of Statistics while attending professional exchange activities in Taiwan, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu indicates that the Straits Exchange Foundation has been requested, out of humanitarian reasons, to immediately assist the family members in coming to Taiwan to handle funeral matters. MAC staff members have also been instructed to extend full assistance in the entry procedures and reception matters.

September 2, 2005
MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu indicates that the government has achieved a high-level of consensus with the civic sector on the planning of a comprehensive set of accompanying measures for the management and reception of Chinese tourists. This is to guarantee the quality and order of their visit to Taiwan.

September 2, 2005
The relevant departments of China's General Administration of Civil Aviation approves the applications of four Taiwanese airline companies, EVA Air, China Airlines, UNI Air, and Mandarin Airlines, to fly over China's territorial air space.

September 2, 2005
The Association for Relations across the Taiwan Strait telegrams the Straits Exchange Foundation conveying its sympathy and solicitude to the Taiwanese compatriots affected by Typhoon Talim.

September 3, 2005
MAC Spokesperson Michael Y. L. You welcomes China's approval of the applications of four Taiwanese airlines companies to fly over China's territorial airspace. He hopes that this positive interaction will lead to the negotiations on the cargo and passenger charter flights and facilitate early preparations.

September 3, 2005
MAC Spokesperson Michael Y. L. You welcomes China's approval of the application of four Taiwanese airline companies to fly over China's territorial air-space and hopes that this positive interaction will extend to the negotiations on the cargo and passenger charter flights and facilitate early preparations.

September 3, 2005
Chinese President Hu Jintao releases a statement at the commemoration of the 60th anniversary of the victory in the War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression indicating that they shall uphold the basic guidelines of "peaceful reunification, and one country, two systems" in the present development of cross-strait relations, and the Eight Propositions for promoting the peaceful unification of the motherland. The firm belief in the "one China" principle will never waver; the efforts to pursue a peaceful reunification will never be abandoned; the guiding principle of placing the hopes on the Taiwanese people will never change; and the opposition against separatist activities of "Taiwanese independence" advocates will never be compromised. They will seriously take every measure to reinforce cross-strait exchanges and cooperate in every domain. They firmly oppose the "Taiwanese independence" separatist forces and their activities, and will never allow these forces to split Taiwan away from the motherland by any name or any means.

September 4, 2005
While attending the Youth National Affairs Conference, President Chen Shui-bian indicates that only through the basic principles of democracy, peace, and parity can the related negotiations, dialogues, and talks be conducted and the serious issue on the so-called direct cross-strait "Three-Links" can be resolved to everyone's expectation .

September 5, 2005
While inspecting the "Special Police Task Force for the Speedy Crime Crackdown" under the National Police Agency of the Ministry of the Interior, President Chen Shui-bian indicates that we must not exclude the possibility that China has tried to further penetrate into Taiwan through every legal and illegal channel. It will wait for an opportunity to launch destructive and offensive attacks against Taiwan. The maintenance of peace and order and the strengthening of national security directly affect the people's welfare. To safeguard the freedom and democracy enjoyed by the twenty-three million Taiwanese people, the government must take all counteractive and preventive measures and actions.

September 5, 2005
In an exclusive interview with Spain's ABC News, Premier Frank Hsieh indicates that the "one country, two systems" and "high degree of autonomy" models in Hong Kong and Macao are not applicable in Taiwan. However, a peace agreement at a confirmed date can be signed with China to enable both sides to achieve economic development, consolidate freedom, enhance the standard of living, as well as to initiate the possibility of a future reunification.

September 6, 2005
In a message delivered at a 2005 gathering of all the council members of the Overseas Chinese Affairs Commission, President Chen Shui-bian indicates that if Taiwan needs to accept the so-called "one China" principle and "one country, two systems" before conducting talks on the "Three-Links," then it would be self-destruction, complete surrender, and agreement to localize Taiwan and turn it into a special administrative region of the People's Republic of China. Changing the ruling administration or the head of state would not be able to materialize the "Three-Links."

September 6, 2005
MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu indicates in a media interview that since China's position on the cross-strait "Three-Links" is still fairly rigid, Taiwan will work hard to promote the negotiations on the cargo and passenger charter flights. This is aimed at accumulating mutual trust and building a better foundation for the future of the "Three-Links."

September 6, 2005
MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu indicates that the government has seriously considered its policies. If we hastily acknowledge academic degrees obtained in China, it will create more difficulties for the colleges and universities in Taiwan to operate. However, the enhancement of cross-strait academic exchanges can be considered, including the acknowledgement of credits and the extended recruitment of Chinese students to enroll in EMBA courses.

September 7, 2005
The Taiwan Affairs Office under China's State Council and the National Development Bank sign an agreement of cooperation containing a resolution to allocate 30 billion renminbi over an initial period of five years to serve as funding for Taiwanese businessmen.

September 8, 2005
China holds the 5th general assembly and a commemorative celebration of the 20th founding anniversary of the China National Committee for Terms in Sciences and Technologies. It was reported that the task of compiling a unified list of scientific and technological terminologies for both sides of the Strait has been successful. Work has commenced on the compilation of unified terminologies in more than twenty scientific fields. Terminological cross-reference books on five scientific fields have been published to date.

September 9, 2005
While meeting with the Canadian parliamentarian representatives in Ottawa, Chinese Premier Hu Jintao reiterates that there is only one China in the world, and Taiwan is an inseparable part of China. The Taiwan issue is a domestic issue of China; it involves China's sovereignty and territorial integrity and bears an impact on the nationalistic sentiments of the 1.3 billion Chinese people and China's core interests. Upholding the "one China" policy is the consensus of the international community, including Canada, and is the foundation for a smooth development of Sino-Canadian relations as well. It is hoped that the Canadian government will adhere to the "one China" policy, properly handle the Taiwan issue, and guarantee the stable development of bilateral relations.

September 11, 2005
With regard to the question raised by overseas media on the probability of holding some of the Olympic sporting events in Taiwan at the 3rd World Chinese Media Forum, Jiang Xiaoyu, Executive Vice-President of Beijing Organizing Committee for the 2008 Olympic Games, indicates that the venues for all 28 sporting events of the Games have already been set in July, confirmed by the world bodies of each of the sports events, and approved by the International Olympic Committee.

September 12, 2005
Presiding over the opening of advanced military education classes at the National Defense University, President Chen Shui-bian indicates that the increase in the national defense budget is by no means to engage in a military competition with China. On the contrary, it is to establish a more solid foundation of security and stability across the Taiwan Strait. In facing the relentless military threats and intimidations from China for over half a century, we must not take any chances and have illusions.

September 12, 2005
While meeting a Danish parliamentary delegation, President Chen Shui-bian indicates that differences across the Strait must be solved based on the principles of democracy, peace and equality. In terms of democracy, the government asks that the will of Taiwan's 23 million people be respected and heard. On the principle of peace, the government asks that non-violent means be employed in resolving differences between the two sides. And on equality, the government asks that negotiations be conducted on a government-to-government basis.

September 12, 2005
China's Vice Premier Wu Yi announces at the Symposium for Trade and Economic Cooperation between Taiwan and Jiangxi Province that they welcome Taiwanese financial institutions to set up office branches in China. Wu Yi also proposes five points of hope for Taiwanese businessmen: 1. Hoping that the industrial and commercial sectors will wage a more extensive influence over other sectors in Taiwan. 2. Hoping that they will seize opportunities and make timely expansions of the scope of their investments in China. The central government supports company mergers and stock purchases of Taiwanese enterprises in their participation of national enterprises and in expanding their development potentials. 3. Hoping that they will expand their industrial development potential. 4. Hoping that they will actively participate in the development of the local economies. 5. Hoping that they will exert efforts in establishing a more complete industrial chain.

September 12, 2005
Taiwan Affairs Office Deputy Director Wang Zaixi indicates at the World Chinese Media Forum held at Wuhan today that China currently has "Five Adherences" targeted at Taiwan which includes: upholding the "one China" principle; promoting the principles of a peaceful unification; and expanding cross-strait civic exchanges. However, there is no promise made regarding the abandoning of the use of force.

September 13, 2005
Chinese President Hu Jintao indicates during a meeting with U.S. President George Bush in New York that handling the Taiwan issue appropriately is the key to stable and healthy Sino-U.S. relations. It is hoped that that the U.S. and China will jointly preserve peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, and oppose the so-called "Taiwanese independence."

September 13, 2005
China's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Qin Gang indicates at a press briefing that the treatment of both the historical and Taiwan issues is an important political foundation for improving and developing Sino-Japanese relations. Historical issues involve the sentiments of every Asian people including the Chinese people. China will "listen to what one says and see what one does" and hopes that the Japanese side will express their position through concrete actions.

September 14, 2005
The general committee of the 60th session of the UN General Assembly issues a ruling refusing to include Taiwan's two proposals regarding "Taiwan's representation at the United Nations" and "the U.N.'s positive influence over the maintenance of peace across the Taiwan Strait" on the agenda of the session. This is the 13th time that Taiwan's bid to join the United Nations has been blocked by China.

September 14, 2005
While attending the opening ceremony to commemorate the 60th founding anniversary of the U.N. and the High-Level Meeting on Financing for Development at the United Nations Summit, Chinese President Hu Jintao announces the decision to allow zero tariff treatment on certain products from all of the 39 least developed countries (LDC) holding diplomatic relations with China. This is to support the speedy development of developing countries. LDCs which have diplomatic relations with Taiwan have deliberately been excluded from this privilege.

September 14, 2005
With regard to the refusal of the general committee of the U.N. General Assembly to take up Taiwan's proposal to participate in the United Nations in the agenda for the 13th time, China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Qin Gang indicates that there is only one China in the world. Taiwan, as a part of China, cannot participate in the United Nations, which is composed of sovereign countries. Neither any violation of the aims and principles of the U.N. Charter and U.N. Resolution No. 2758 nor any action that challenges the "one China" principle acknowledged by the international community will gain any support from the majority of the members of the United Nations.

September 15, 2005
While visiting the Ilan Detention Center for detained Chinese stowaways, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu urges the Chinese authorities to carry out the "Kinmen Accord," open up an additional route for the repatriation of stowaways from Kinmen to Xiamen, and repatriate all of the detainees at the Detention Center as soon as possible. In addition, both sides need to conduct negotiations immediately on issues such as the cross-strait crime enforcement in order to effectively deter snakehead gangs and stowaways from entering Taiwan illegally to engage in unlawful acts.

September 15, 2005
The First Forum of Elites from China and Taiwan is being held on the 15th and 16th in Shanghai. Jia Qinglin, Member of the Political Bureau of the Central Committee of the Chinese Communist Party and Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, proposes four points for cross-strait economic exchanges and cooperation during an address. They are: (1) to set aside differences and strive to create a sound environment for economic exchange and cooperation; (2) to concretely promote the cross-strait "Three-Links;" (3) to elevate the level of cross-strait economic exchanges and cooperations; and (4) to establish a cross-strait economic cooperation mechanism.

September 16, 2005
Li Bingcai, Deputy Director of the Taiwan Affairs Office, reiterates while delivering an address at the closing ceremony of the First Forum of Elites from China and Taiwan that cross-strait dialogues and negotiations will only resumed immediately on the foundation of the "1992 Consensus." Only through this will obstacles that hinder cross-strait economic exchange and cooperation be gradually removed.

September 19, 2005
At the book release of the English and simplified character editions of the "Olive Branches," MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu indicates that "goodwill, active cooperation, and permanent peace" are the core ideas of the government's cross-strait policy. It is hoped that sincere reconciliation and peace between both sides of the Strait could be pursued through every form of interaction and exchanges. The "Olive Branches" is being published for the first time in simplified character edition to give the Chinese people the opportunity to gain better understanding of the efforts exerted by the Taiwanese government to achieve peace.

September 19, 2005
MAC indicates that negotiations in cross-strait interactions must be actively promoted in order to create a mechanism for cross-strait peace and development and an environment founded on the legal system. To further promote normalized cross-strait trade and economic relations and implement comprehensive, direct, and bi-directional trade exchanges, the Chinese authorities must first adjust their flawed policies toward Taiwan and cease all inappropriate actions aimed at dividing Taiwan. Moreover, they must make an active, positive, and concrete response to the negotiation of the three priority issues proposed by Taiwan. These issues are: the cargo and passenger charter flights, Taiwan's agricultural exports to China, and visits to Taiwan by Chinese tourists. This is aimed at gradually guiding cross-strait relations back on track and launching a new era of cross-strait communication and negotiations.

September 19, 2005
An MAC press release indicates that to further promote normalized cross-strait trade and economic relations and implement comprehensive, direct, and bi-directional trade exchanges, the Chinese authorities must first adjust their flawed policies toward Taiwan and stop all inappropriate actions aimed at dividing Taiwan. Moreover, they must make an active, positive, and concrete response to the negotiation of the three priority issues proposed by Taiwan. These issues are: the cargo and passenger charter flights, Taiwan's agricultural exports to China, and visits to Taiwan by Chinese tourists. This is aimed at gradually guiding cross-strait relations back on track and launching a new era of cross-strait communication and negotiations.

September 20, 2005
Chinese Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing indicates at a meeting with U.S. State Secretary Condoleeza Rice in New York that the Taiwan issue is the most sensitive and most important issue in Sino-U.S. relations. It is hoped that the U.S. will abide by its promises and work together with China to preserve peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and maintain Sino-U.S. relations.

September 22, 2005
While attending a dinner party hosted by overseas Taiwanese in Florida, President Chen Shui-bian indicates that the crux of the problem at the present-stage of cross-strait relations lies in China's refusal to engage in dialogues with Taiwan's duly-elected president and government. China has increased the number of missiles targeted at Taiwan, and also passed the so-called "anti-separation law," clearly stipulating the right to use "non-peaceful" means to resolve the Taiwan issue. President Chen's beautiful vision of cross-strait relations is that a "democratic" and "human rights conscious" Taiwan will co-exist peacefully with a "democratic" and "human rights conscious" China and jointly work toward prosperity. He again demonstrates his sincerity and goodwill by inviting the leaders from across the Taiwan Strait to reconcile and conduct rational dialogue regardless of time and place, and without any preconditions. He hopes that both sides can open "a window of opportunity" for cross-strait democracy and peace together.

September 22, 2005
In an interview with the Central News Agency, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu indicates that aside from political dialogues and dialogues between the leaders on both sides of the Strait, the government expects to conduct negotiations as soon as possible on pragmatic issues that are of concern to both sides of the Strait and to jointly find solutions to these cross-strait issues. It is hoped that the other side of the Strait can seriously deal with the goodwill and sincerity extended by the Taiwanese government.

September 24, 2005
In a message at the 2005 General Assembly of the World Taiwanese Congress, Vice President Annette Lu indicates that China's use of force against Taiwan not only comes in the form of intimidation, but also consists of various forms of preparations. The current form is the information warfare, an "ultra-limit war." We must strengthen our preparations in military, political, economic, cultural, and diplomatic aspects.

September 25, 2005
In a message at a gathering hosted by the Taiwanese expatriate community in the Dominican Republic, President Chen Shui-bian indicates that Taiwan is a member of the world community and that it is not a part of the People's Republic of China. We have always pursued a cross-strait interaction framework of equality and mutual reciprocity, of co-existence and joint prosperity. We hope that China will adhere to the principles of "goodwill, active cooperation, and permanent peace," and seek a cross-strait interaction framework of permanent peace, to make a major contribution to the welfare of the peoples on both sides of the Strait and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region.

September 25, 2005
In a tea session with accompanying journalists on the trip to the Dominican Republic, President Chen Shui-bian indicates that in recent years, China has relied on economic opportunities offered by its vast market and national strength to carry out the so-called "Three Empties" strategy toward Taiwan in the international arena. The "Three Empties" are: attempts to lure away all the ROC's allies, eliminate all of Taiwan's influences and block Taiwan's existence in the international arena. It seeks to finally achieve its goal of eliminating the Republic of China (Taiwan) from the international community, and attain a so-called "one country" and "one China." Therefore, we must never sit still and wait for destruction. As China's offensives become stronger, the more we should solidify our alliances with other countries, and seek diplomatic breakthroughs.

September 25, 2005
Wu Bangguo, Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, makes a recommendation during a discussion at the Great Hall of the People with the Speaker of Russian Federation Council Sergei Mironov, to deepen mutual political trust, continue close high-level bilateral exchanges, expand mutual support on major issues that involve national sovereignty and territorial integrity, including the issues of Taiwan, Tibet, and Chechen.

September 26, 2005
At a party hosted by the Taiwanese expatriate community in Nicaragua, President Chen Shui-bian reiterates that Taiwan's Republic of China is entirely different from China's People's Republic of China. Both sides are separately established, separately governed, and have no jurisdiction over each other. President Chen states that when facing China's continuous suppression in the international arena, the government must abide by the highest basic principles of "putting Taiwan's interests first while maintaining a global perspective, in order to attain mutual benefit with sound risk management." They will serve as the guiding principles in cross-strait relations and enable Taiwan to become the role model of development in democracy, freedom, and human rights around the world.

September 26, 2005
In an exclusive interview with the Associated Press in Nicaragua, President Chen Shui-bian indicates that Taiwan is prepared to conduct dialogues with China. However, the Taiwanese government will never yield to the pressure imposed by China due to its dissatisfaction over the U.S. arms sale to Taiwan.

September 26, 2005
An analysis report on "China's exploitation of the goddess Matsu in its work on Taiwan" is presented at a MAC!@Council Meeting. MAC Spokesperson Michael Y. L. You indicates that China's recent promotion of cross-strait religious exchanges is to enhance the public's identification with China. At the same time, religion and tourism are utilized to benefit the economy in the local areas and to attract the believers to invest in China. The belief in the goddess Matsu is exploited the most in this regard.

September 28, 2005
With regard to the announcement of China's Taiwan Affairs Office to extend the length of time that Taiwanese reporters can station in China, MAC issues a press release indicating that if the Chinese authorities were sincere in promoting cross-strait media exchanges, then they should take concrete steps and allow other local news agencies to station in Taiwan for news coverage. At the same time, they should remove the inappropriate interferences and obstacles that stand in the way of Taiwan's China Times and United Daily News websites. This is the proper step to improve cross-strait news exchanges.

September 28, 2005
China's Taiwan Affairs Office Spokesperson Li Weiyi indicates at a regular press conference that the length of time that Taiwanese reporters are allowed to station and cover news in China is immediately extended from one month to three months.

September 28, 2005
Taiwan Affairs Office Spokesperson Li Weiyi indicates at a press briefing that President Chen Shui-bian must comply with APEC practices if he wants to participate in APEC activities. He also urges the heads of the relevant agencies on both sides of the Strait to actively cooperate in regard to China's offering of pandas to the Taiwanese compatriots.

September 29, 2005
While presiding over an Executive Yuan session on a Special Program to reinforce social order, Premier Frank Hsieh issues a directive and lists the joint cross-strait crimes crackdown as a major issue on the agenda in the cross-strait negotiations. He clearly demands that Chinese people coming to Taiwan must leave their fingerprint marks, to effectively resolve cross-strait crime.

September 29, 2005
MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu indicates at the Legislative Yuan that with regard to any Chinese officials coming to Taiwan for exchanges, MAC's policy is to handle all matters according to the standard procedures.

September 30, 2005
Chinese Ministry of Commerce releases Announcement No. 60 for 2005, stating the findings of the anti-dumping investigation on the exportation of unbleached paper cardboard from the Taiwan Area. It is decided that effective as of September 30, 2005, imported items originating from Taiwan and other areas will be levied anti-dumping duties ranging from 7 to 65.2 percent for a period of five years.

September 30, 2005
Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Qin Gang indicates at a press briefing that China is extremely displeased at the United Arab Emirates' insistence on allowing President Chen Shui-bian to make a stop over to engage in political activities. It demands that the United Arab Emirates immediately stop all forms of official contact with Taiwan.

October 1, 2005
At the "Private Sector Leadership and Local Development Course" held by the Ketagalan Institute, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu notes that Taiwan's policy is to encourage the people of China to visit Taiwan so they can gain a better understanding of Taiwan. The government has planned and implemented the "Mini-Three-Links" in Kinmen and Matsu, relaxed restrictions on Chinese tourists visiting Taiwan, introduced cross-strait charter flights during the Lunar New Year, and permitted the Chinese media to base reporters in Taiwan.

October 3, 2005
In a meeting with Mr. Georg Jarzembowski, president of the European Parliament's Taiwan Friendship Group, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that although the "Cross-Strait Peace Promotion Bill" drafted by the People First Party adopts "peace" in its name, the bill would in fact completely strip the executive branch of its authority in handling cross-strait affairs. It is hard to imagine such an action occurring in other democratic countries. Any bill based on a "1992 Consensus," which lacks internal consensus, would be extremely detrimental to Taiwan in the face of China's military might and diplomatic pressure.

October 3, 2005
Taiwan permits renminbi currency exchange services in the Kinmen and Matsu areas.

October 4, 2005
The Straits Exchange Foundation issues a letter of condolance through the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait to disaster victims in the Fujian area following Typhoon Longwang.

October 5, 2005
The Third Cross-Strait Symposium on Traditional Chinese Culture and Modernization is held in Xianyang City, Shaanxi Province on October 5 and 6, 2005.

October 6, 2005
During a Cabinet meeting, Premier Frank Hsieh instructs MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu to introduce several proposals to national security agencies. Based on the cross-strait policy, establish a comprehensive set of mechanisms for cross-strait currency settlement and introduce renminbi exchange services on the main island of Taiwan.

October 6, 2005
President Chen Shui-bian attends the opening ceremony of the "Shih Ming-teh Lecture," hosted by the political science department of The National Taiwan University. He notes that due to the increasingly tense cross-strait situation, the two sides must actively move forward to full reconciliation and dialogue, jointly maintain the status quo in the Taiwan Strait, and not make unilateral changes. President Chen also states that peaceful dialogue is the only way to resolve disputes across the Taiwan Strait.

October 7, 2005
In an interview with Reuters, President Chen Shui-bian notes that U.N. Resolution 2758 only resolves the issue of China's representation and does not resolve the issue of representation of the 23 million people of Taiwan.

October 7, 2005
At the regular joint meeting of the Hsinchu County and City chapters of the International Rotary Club, President Chen Shui-bian speaks on China's "Three Out" policy on Taiwan-"cut out," "squeeze out," and "block out." The purpose of the policy is to block and squeeze out Taiwan's existence in the international arena and force Taiwan's diplomatic allies to cut ties with Taiwan so it is difficult for Taiwan to function.

October 7, 2005
In a press release outlining its position on the "Cross-Strait Peace Promotion Bill," MAC states that aside from Taiwan's intentions and actions, Beijing should cooperate to establish peaceful and stable cross-strait relations. It also states that the three major principles (principle of consensus, principle of public opinion, and principle of constitution) must be followed when establishing a set of proper mechanisms to consolidate consensus between ruling and opposition political parties and promoting cross-strait peace and development.

October 7, 2005
In a press briefing on the "Background of the Asia Pacific Cities Summit," the MAC states that the Asia Pacific Cities Summit (APCS) will convene its annual assembly in Chongqing, China from October 11 to 14, 2005. At present, Taiwan will send representatives from Taipei City, Taichung City, and Taoyuan County to attend the summit. It was learned that when introducing this year's participants on the event website, the Chinese hosts separately designated the "Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan Areas." This not only violates ACPS' practice of listing the participating cities in English alphabetical order, but also shows China's relentless belittlement of Taiwan even before the start of this international conference.

October 9, 2005
At a concert celebrating the 94th anniversary of the founding of the ROC, Vice President Annette Lu expresses that although China is rising, it has hidden its strong ambition. From the military aspect, China is becoming a huge threat. From the economic aspect, it has created a very frightening phenomenon of continuously consuming world resources. Although China has consistently stressed its peaceful emergence, the facts show that China's rise is a threat to humanity.

October 10, 2005
In his address to the ROC National Day Rally, President Chen Shui-bian stresses that China's suppression of Taiwan in the international community and its deployment of missiles to imperil Taiwan's national security constitute not only threats to a democratic and free Taiwan, but also pose grave challenges to the global "community of democracies".

October 12, 2005
President Chen Shui-bian receives Mr. Yun Hai-jung, envoy of President Roh Moo-hyun of South Korea, the hosting country of the 2005 APEC Informal Economic Leaders' Meeting. He states that APEC belongs to all of its members, including Taiwan, and is not the exclusive domain of China alone. China has no veto authority whatsoever over the APEC representatives designated by Taiwan's leadership.

October 12, 2005
The 20th World Hakka Conference is held in Chengdu from October 12 to 14, 2005. The event is attended by 155 delegations, including groups from Taiwan. Taiwan is selected to host the conference in 2006.

October 12, 2005
The Fifth Asia-Pacific Cities Summit is held in Chongqing from October 12 to 13, 2005.

October 12, 2005
A cross-strait seminar in commemoration of Taiwan's first governor Liu Ming-chuan is held in Hefei, Anhui Province from October 12 to 15, 2005.

October 13, 2005
MAC issues a press release indicating that with regard to the import of pandas to Taiwan, the relevant government agencies have proposed clear principles to address the issue. It is obvious that the Chinese authorities are repeatedly attempting to use this issue for political manipulation. This will only complicate the issue and will not bring any positive significance to overall cross-strait relations.

October 13, 2005
In an interview at the forum on "Old Challenges and New Developments in Asia Pacific Security," MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu notes that China's leader Hu Jintao once said that, "[China] will do anything in its power and do it well as long as it is beneficial to the people of Taiwan." The negotiations currently proposed by Taiwan are beneficial not only to the people of Taiwan, but also to the people of China and cross-strait relations. China should therefore earnestly begin negotiations with Taiwan on various issues.

October 13, 2005
Foreign Ministry spokesman Kong Quan expresses strong dissatisfaction and opposition to Washington for allowing Lee Teng-hui to visit the U.S. He urges the U.S. to adhere to the one-China policy, observe the three Sino-US joint communiques, and not send any wrong signals suggesting support for "Taiwan independence."

ctober 14, 2005
Speaking at the Legislative Yuan, Premier Frank Hsieh indicates that Taiwan and China are both members of the World Trade Organization (WTO), and are currently carrying out protected animal exchanges in accordance with WTO rules on the trade of wildlife. The government has no pre-established position on whether panda's may be imported to Taiwan. However, it would like such matters to be handled in accordance with the conventions of international regulations and WTO modes of exchange.

October 14, 2005
MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states that the designation of Legislative Speaker Wang Jin-pyng as President Chen Shui-bian's envoy to attend the APEC Informal Economic Leaders meeting is not only a goodwill gesture to China, but also a good starting point for the political parties in Taiwan to reconcile. It is also a good opportunity for the Taiwanese government to greet the Chinese leadership via Speaker Wang.

October 14, 2005
At a press briefing, MAC announces that in order to effectively deter Chinese people from illegally entering Taiwan to engage in criminal activities, the council is formulating related countermeasures in coordination with relevant agencies. Such efforts include the discussion of amendments to provisions in the "Act Governing Relations between Peoples of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area" concerning the punishment for people directly or indirectly involved in using or acting as the middlemen for the illegal transportation of Chinese people to Taiwan to engage in criminal activities. The enforcement of stipulations in Article 79 of the Act authorizing the responsible authority to confiscate Taiwanese vessels and other means of transportation used for transporting stowaways and the establishment of a contacting and consulting mechanism are also addressed.

October 14, 2005
Foreign Ministry spokesman Kong Quan states at a press conference that Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) member Chinese Taipei can only send its minister in charge of APEC-related economic affairs to attend the APEC Informal Economic Leaders' Meeting. He says that APEC has already formed its norms with regards to Taiwan's selection of participants on this basis. He adds that Chen Shui-bian obviously harbors ulterior political motives by playing tricks in this matter, and that the parties concerned should handle related affairs properly while fully realizing the severity of this issue.

October 16, 2005
President Chen Shui-bian states in an interview with SetTV that the "Cross-Strait Peace Promotion Bill" not only violates the Constitution and strips the people of Taiwan of their power to freely decide the future of Taiwan, but also runs completely against the spirit and basic principles of democracy.

October 17, 2005
In an interview with Pio D'Emilia, Tokyo correspondent of Italy's "L' Espresso" magazine and SkyTV, President Chen Shui-bian indicates that goodwill reconciliation, active cooperation, and permanent peace remain the highest guiding principles for Taiwan's cross-strait affairs management. Yet Taiwan cannot indulge in wishful thinking since China, regrettably, has constantly pressured Taiwan with increasing severity. Moreover, China's military buildup has not been accompanied by a peaceful awakening or democratic development. On the contrary, it has emerged as a military threat. If the rise of China also means the rise of China's military power, then it is by no means a collective good fortune for humanity.

October 17, 2005
MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states at the Legislative Yuan that China's Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) Director Chen Yunlin is required to apply for permission to visit Taiwan, and such application will be considered by a Joint Review Committee of the Ministry of the Interior. Since Chen is a high-level official, this matter must also be handled through governmental-level communication and arrangements between the two sides.

October 18, 2005
The draft proposals for the 11th Five-Year Plan for National Economic and Social Development place emphasis on the firm adherence to the one-China principle, relentless efforts to seek peaceful reunification, unwavering principle of placing hope on the Taiwan people, and never compromising in opposing the "Taiwan independence" secessionist activities.

October 18, 2005
Foreign Ministry spokesman Kong Quan states at a regular press briefing that China seriously opposes the United States' engagement in any form of military exchange and cooperation with Taiwan, including the provision of weapons to Taiwan.

October 19, 2005
In a meeting with U.S. Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld, Defense Minister Cao Gangchuan urges the U.S. to adhere to its pledge to side with China in opposing Taiwan independence and jointly work for peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and Asia-Pacific region.

October 19, 2005
In his keynote speeches at the "2005 International Chinese Business Economic and Trade Seminar" and "Second World Summit of Chinese Businesses," Taiwan Affairs Office Deputy Director Sun Yafu states that in light of economic development trends in the world and East Asian region, cross-strait economic exchanges and cooperation should be comprehensively deepened and broadened at this time.

October 19, 2005
Taiwan Affairs Office Director Chen Yunlin meets with a Kuomintang delegation in Beijing to discuss issues related to direct cross-strait travel. He says that China's responsible authorities and agencies for travel have seriously studied specific matters pertaining to Chinese residents traveling to Taiwan. He hopes that the authorities in Taiwan can abide public opinion by adopting an active and pragmatic attitude and take practical steps to bring about direct cross-strait passenger and cargo charter flights and allow Chinese tourists to visit Taiwan at an early time.

October 19, 2005
The 2005 Cross-Strait Agricultural Cooperation Forum is held in Chengdu, Sichuan on October 19 and 20, 2005.

October 20, 2005
Taiwan Affairs Office Deputy Directors Li Bingcai and Zheng Lizhong, along with responsible officials of related units of the Civil Aviation Administration of China and National Tourism Administration, hold a working meeting with a Kuomintang delegation in China to promote measures to allow tourists from China to visit Taiwan and cross-strait passenger and cargo charter flights. The Chinese side advocates the position that charter flights should be actively promoted, and says that issues concerning passenger and cargo charter flights can be jointly discussed as soon as possible according to the Macao negotiation model adopted for the 2005 Lunar New Year's charter flight program. The Chinese side also states that passenger charter flights can be implemented on holidays, weekends and a regular basis, and that the two sides should make appropriate preparations for allowing Chinese tourists to visit Taiwan.

October 21, 2005
The MAC announces in a press release that at the invitation of the Taiwan Visitors Association, Chairman Shao Qiwei of the China Tourism Association (CTA) will lead a visiting delegation to Taiwan on October 28, 2005 for a 10-day inspection tour of Taiwan's sightseeing sites and tourist facilities. MAC welcomes the visiting delegation.

October 22, 2005
The Cross-Strait Cultural Exchange and Cultural Industry Cooperation Forum is held in Shanghai on October 22 and 23, 2005.

October 24, 2005
An academic seminar commemorating the 60th anniversary of Taiwan's retrocession is jointly held in Beijing by the Central Committee of Taiwan Democratic Self-Government League, All-China Federation of Taiwan Compatriots, Taiwan Research Institute, and Research Center for Relations across the Taiwan Straits. Over 60 prominent scholars attend from Taiwan, China, the Hong Kong and Macao areas, and other countries.

October 25, 2005
In a reception with foreign dignitaries attending a symposium on "US-Taiwan-Japan Strategic Dialogue," President Chen Shui-bian notes that over the past 60 years China has not once celebrated the retrocession of Taiwan. Its broadened celebration of the so-called "retrocession of Taiwan" this year is not a celebration of retrocession, but rather a return to its united front tactics. It does not embody the true meaning of Taiwan's Retrocession Day, but is rather a substantive political doctrine. Taiwan has actively participated in APEC since joining the forum in 1991. President Chen expresses great regret that Taiwan's leaders are still excluded from participating in APEC's informal leaders' meetings. It is highly inconceivable that China is able to veto the chosen representatives of Taiwan's leader.

October 25, 2005
The Department of Health announces that from October 26, 2005 all travelers entering Taiwan from China via the "Mini-Three-Links", Hong Kong or Macao are required to monitor their health after arrival.

October 25, 2005
At an assembly marking the 60th anniversary of Taiwan's retrocession from Japan, Standing Politburo member Jia Qinglin states that, "We are willing, on the basis of the "1992 Consensus" to engage in dialogue and negotiations with any person or any party and on any issue.

October 25, 2005
Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing and Senegalese State Minister of Foreign Affairs Cheikh Tidiane Gadio represent their governments in signing a joint communique recognizing the government of the People's Republic of China as the sole legal representative of all of China.

October 25, 2005
Jia Qinglin, member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China's Central Committee and Chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, emphasizes at an assembly commemorating the 60th anniversary of Taiwan's retrocession that Taiwan is an indivisible part of the territory of China. Sixty years ago Taiwan belonged legally and de facto to China. Although the two sides of the Taiwan Strait are not yet unified, it remains an unchanged fact that the mainland and Taiwan are both part of China. Recognition that the two sides belong to one China is the foundation for establishing mutual political trust across the Taiwan Strait. The two sides should immediately resume dialogue and negotiation, hold equal consultations, expand consensus and resolve issues on the basis of the "1992 Consensus."

October 25, 2005
Chinese Health Minister Gao Qiang states during a press conference at the closing ceremony of the ministerial meeting on "Global Pandemic Influenza Readiness" in Ottawa that Taiwan's entry to the World Health Organization contravenes U.N. regulations because Taiwan is not a sovereign state.

October 25, 2005
The Exit and Entry Management Bureau, Ministry of Public Security, officially authorizes bureau units in Shanghai City and Jiangsu Province to Exit and Entry Management Bureau to replace and reissue five-year Taiwan Resident Certificates.

October 27, 2005
Zhang Jianzhong, spokesman of the China National Tourism Administration announces that China National Tourism Administration Director Shao Qiwei will lead a delegation to Taiwan on October 28, 2005 in a private capacity for a ten-day routine inspection tour of Taiwan's travel environment.

October 27, 2005
Foreign Ministry spokesman Kong Quan expresses that there are two very important principles that the Vatican should follow to improve relations with China. First, the Vatican must sever diplomatic ties with Taiwan. Second, the Vatican must not interfere in China's internal affairs, including religious affairs.

October 27, 2005
The public security authorities in Fujian Province repatriate wanted criminal Chang Kuan-sheng back to Taiwan.

October 28, 2005
At the first session of its regular bimonthly review of permitted Chinese imports into Taiwan, the Bureau of Foreign Trade under the Ministry of Economic Affairs reaches an initial agreement to allow the import of 10 additional items from China, including roach bait and refined copper foil (not backed) of a thickness not exceeding 0.07cm.

October 29, 2005
The "2005 Hunan-Taiwan Economic and Trade Exchange and Cooperation Summit Forum" opens on October 29, 2005 in Wangcheng County, Changsha City, Hunan Province. The three-day forum activities begin on October 28, 2005. Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) Director Chen Yunlin, Executive Deputy Director Li Bingcai and Hunan Provincial Governor Zhou Bohua meet with over 40 Taiwan business leaders, including Uni-President Group CEO Jason Lin.

October 30, 2005
Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) Deputy Directors Li Bingcai and Zheng Lizhong, along with personnel of other related government units meet with a delegation led by Chiang Pin-kun. The two sides form the following common views on 12 consensus points:

1. Both sides hope that negotiations can be held both on the issues of establishing cross-strait passenger charter flights during holidays, weekends, and on a regular basis, as well as on the issues pertaining to cargo charter flights, modeled on negotiations for the 2005 Lunar New Year charter flights. It is also hoped that negotiations can be held soon on issues pertaining to the 2006 Lunar New Year charter flights.
2. The two sides should work hard to establish purchasing and marketing channels/platforms for Taiwanese fruit exports.
3. The tourism industries on both sides should be encouraged to hold negotiations as soon as possible on travel-related issues connected with the visits to Taiwan by Chinese tourists.
4. The financial industries on both sides should be encouraged to hold negotiations on strengthening cross-strait t financial cooperation.
5. The media industries on both sides should be encouraged to hold negotiations on the mutual assignment of reporters to the other side.
6. The two sides reach an agreement on 10 positions regarding the protection of the investments of Taiwanese businesses:

(1)	The TAO will study ways to resolve issues related to land use by Taiwanese enterprises.
(2)	TAO will fully and thoroughly implement the Law of the People's Republic of China on the Protection of Taiwan Compatriots' Investment and its enforcement regulations, and pay attention to the opinions and suggestions of Taiwanese businesspeople.
(3)	The public security agencies in areas of China with high concentrations of Taiwan business residents will increase public safety administration and patrols.
(4)	TAO welcomes KMT think tanks to engage in exchanges and case studies on finance, insurance, trade and other issues of concern to Taiwanese businesspeople in China.
(5)	China's customs authority and other related agencies will adopt measures to accelerate the facilitation of import and export clearance.
(6)	Taiwan SME investment in sectors consistent with China's industrial policy will be included within the scope of investments suitable for receiving development loans from the China Development Bank.
(7)	The number of arbitration organization accepting Taiwan arbitrators will be gradually increased so as to expand recruitment of professional arbitrators from the Taiwan area.
(8)	Taiwanese businessmen can invest in the establishment of hospitals through a cooperative enterprise approach; and Taiwanese physicians licensed in China can practice in China for a stipulated period.
(9)	The TAO will actively expand education channels for the children of Taiwanese businessmen.
(10)	The TAO will actively study ways to simplify the application procedures for Chinese personnel of China-based Taiwan enterprises to go to Taiwan for training.

November 1, 2005
A MAC news release indicates that a delegation headed by China National Tourism Administration Director Shao Qiwei was visiting Taiwan to inspect tourist spots and facilities upon the invitation of the Taiwan Visitors Association and the approval of government authorities. Therefore, MAC urges all sectors in society to view the visit with a generous heart and a friendly attitude. In addition, MAC pleads to the public to support the government in the facilitation of the visits to Taiwan by Chinese tourists, in order to achieve the goal of mutual benefits and create a "win-win" situation across the Strait.

November 1, 2005
China's "Shanghai Taiwanese Compatriots Reception and Service Center" is officially inaugurated at 61 Songyuan Road, Shanghai. Established under the Taiwan Affairs Office of the People's Municipal Government of Shanghai, the Center is to replace the original Taiwanese Fishermen's Reception Station under the Taiwanese Businessmen's Appeals and Arbitration Center.

November 1, 2005
The Fujian Province's Temporary Guidelines for the Management of Foreign Exchange for Travel in the Taiwan Area is officially implemented. The Guidelines regulate the payment, purchase, and remittance of foreign exchange for travel to the Taiwan Area, and the opening and maintenance of accounts.

November 2, 2005
China's Taiwan Affairs Office Deputy Directors Li Bingcai and Zheng Lizhong and other TAO officials hold a conference with the Taiwanese Businessmen Service Center delegation of the Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) headed by P. K. Chiang. They achieved common consensus on five items, including: the implementation of cross-strait cargo and passenger charter flights on holidays, weekends, and weekdays; the construction of channels and platforms for the purchase and sale of Taiwan fruits; the promotion of negotiations between the travel sectors across the Strait to discuss related issues to facilitate Chinese tourists' visit to Taiwan; the encouragement of negotiations between the financial sectors across the Strait to reinforce cross-strait financial cooperation; and the encouragement of negotiations between the media sectors across the Strait to station reporters on the other side.

November 3, 2005
MAC Vice Chairman David W. F. Huang indicates that Pu Zhaozhou, Director of the Office of Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macao Affairs under the General Administration of the Civil Aviation of China, has written Taipei Airlines Association Chairman Tony Fan for an invitation to conduct negotiations on the Lunar New Year cross-strait charter flights, as well as on the cargo and passenger charter flights. MAC believes that Pu's letter can prove that the authorized agencies on both sides of the Strait have tacitly agreed to maintain communications.

November 3, 2005
Pu Zhaozhou, vice chairman of the board of directors of China's Straits Aviation Exchange Commission, writes Taipei Airlines Association Chairman Tony Fan inviting him to lead a delegation of relevant officials to conduct a negotiation on the cross-strait cargo and passenger charter flights as soon as possible following the model of the Lunar New Year charter flights negotiations held in Macao in 2005. This is so that both sides of the Strait can directly communicate, as well as achieve a consensus and smoothly carry out the policy regarding the technical aspects and operational arrangements of the 2006 Lunar New Year charter flights.

November 4, 2005
A MAC news release indicates that the promotion of cross-strait cargo and passenger charter flights is an established policy of the ROC government. Premier Frank Hsieh has also made policy announcements on June 13 and August 3, 2005. In response, MAC has already commissioned the Taipei Airlines Association to undertake initial contacts with China, while other agencies are working hard to facilitate discussions on related issues. Despite different positions and considerations during the negotiations of the Lunar New Year charter flights held at Macao in 2005, both sides reached a consensus on the "two-way, reciprocal and non-stop" approach which led to the smooth implementation of the charter flights. This proves that as long as China and Taiwan can adhere to the same spirit and work together, we are confident that both sides can complete the 2006 Lunar New Year charter flights negotiations earlier as well as cross-strait cargo and passenger charter flights with satisfactory results.

November 6, 2005
With regard to the Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT)'s invitation of China's Taiwan Affairs Office Director Chen Yunlin to visit Taiwan in December, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu indicates that the invitation was proposed by the KMT think tank, so it is considered a cultural and educational exchange. However, as a senior ranking official in charge of China's Taiwan policies, Chen Yunlin's extraordinary identity necessitates the Immigration Office's activation of the joint review procedures for his entry application in consideration of security maintenance and smooth itinerary arrangements. China must authorize personnel to communicate with the Taiwanese Government, or to base on the previous experience of mutual negotiations between the Straits Exchange Foundation and the Association for Relations across the Taiwan Straits in preparation for the previous Koo-Wang meeting, so that they can conduct the necessary negotiations. The MAC firmly insists on conducting these negotiations, which shall constitute a necessary procedure for the approval of the application. Even if Chen Yunlin applies to visit Taiwan in the capacity as a civic scholar, there must be communications and arrangements between both governments since the party concerned is a high-ranking official of China.

November 6, 2005
A MAC news release indicates that upon the invitation of the Taiwan Visitors Association (TVA), Director Shao Qiwei of the China National Tourism Administration is leading a delegation to visit Taiwan for a very simple purpose. TVA as well as the industry representatives and service personnel receiving the delegation at each site hosted the visitors with the utmost hospitality and showed them the most beautiful facets of Taiwan. MAC would also like to take this opportunity to acknowledge that all the public support has been a major factor in the progress achieved to date in facilitating the visits to Taiwan by Chinese tourists.

November 6, 2005
China Tourism Association Chairman Shao Qiwei indicates that the basic conditions for allowing Chinese tourists to visit Taiwan are completed and proposes four recommendations:

1. reinforcement of communication and exchanges between the travel sectors on both sides of the Strait through the Cross-Strait Travel Sectors Association, the China International Travel Mart (at Shanghai and Kunming), and the Taipei International Travel Fair;
2. regulation and positive interaction between the travel markets on both sides of the Strait, and bilateral cooperation to promote the construction of a sincere and trustworthy tourism industry;
3. joint establishment of a cross-strait travel industry, including planning, marketing, and personnel training; and
4. China's active promotion of expansive exchanges and cooperation between travel sectors and travel enterprises in Taiwan and China.

November 7, 2005
The "Xiamen Association of Cross-Strait Agricultural Exchanges and Cooperation" is established in Xiamen, Fujian Province.

November 7, 2005
China's Ministry of Commerce announces the termination of anti-dumping investigations on Bisphenol-A manufactured and imported from Japan, Russia, Singapore, South Korea, and Taiwan. This is the second anti-dumping investigation case terminated in China due to the applicant's withdrawal of the case.

November 9, 2005
During an APEC high-level government officials' meeting, President Chen Shui-bian announces that in the past few months, China has instigated a series of united front tactics to draw our domestic opposition parties closer to them. China's complete force-out of Taiwan's participation in the APEC meeting this year exemplifies its two-handed tactics, which is Taiwan can only go to China, but not to the world. Therefore, our government must make every effort to let the world see the real face of China so that the international community can know the truth.

November 10, 2005
In an exclusive interview with Japan's Asahi Shimbun, President Chen Shui-bian reiterates that the motive behind China's increased military strength is not to prevent Taiwan from declaring independence, but to annex Taiwan and transform it into a so-called part of the People's Republic of China. We expect a normalization of cross-strait relations, but we cannot be impatient. The more impatient we are, the more the situation is to our disadvantage. We will neither give up on negotiations nor talk out of fear. We will certainly not negotiate for the sake of negotiating.

November 10, 2005
In an exclusive interview with South Korea's Arirang TV, President Chen Shui-bian indicates that the Chinese authorities only conduct exchanges with Taiwan's civic sector or opposition parties and ignore the Taiwanese government. This will not promote mutual exchanges and is not beneficial to the normalization of future cross-strait relations. We do hope that more Chinese officials visit Taiwan, so that they will not always see Taiwan or Taipei from the so-called Beijing's perspective when dealing with cross-strait affairs. At the same time, we will not eliminate the possibility of forming any political relationship or exchange between Taiwan and China as long as the twenty-three million Taiwanese people give their consent.

November 11, 2005
MAC issues a news release indicating that based on the itinerary proposed in their application, it is apparent that Chen Yunlin is intentionally avoiding contacts with our government agencies. At the moment, we do not see how this visit will have any positive impact on cross-strait relations. Prior to the visit to China by former Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) Chairman Koo Chen-fu in 1998 and Mr. Wang Daohan's scheduled visit to Taiwan in 1999, both trips went through extensive and careful planning by government agencies on both sides of the Strait. This was aimed at making necessary preparations which included several official negotiations between SEF and ARATS, channels authorized by both governments. Koo and Wang were non-government officials authorized by their respective governments to engage in activities under such arrangement. Therefore, there is an even greater need for government agencies on both sides to discuss the proposed visit to Taiwan by Chen Yunlin and his delegation of TAO officials. Since a large group of TAO officials plans to visit Taiwan, we will invite them to send representatives and begin official negotiation. If China has difficulty in this matter, we could send representatives to negotiate with them. This is a prerequisite procedure before the government can make a complete review of this trip.

November 11, 2005
The Information Bureau of the Taiwan Affairs Office and the Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macao Office of the Chinese Press Club co-sponsored news coverage activities in China, which commenced in Nanchang, Jiangxi, on November 1, 2005 and ended on November 11, 2005. The twenty reporters who participated in joint coverage activities came from major news agencies in China and Taiwan, including China-based Xinhua News Agency, the People's Daily, the Economic Daily, the China Radio International, CCTV International, and the China News Service, as well as Taiwan's media, such as the United Daily News, TVBS, Eastern Television, CtiTV, and SETTV.

November 12, 2005
MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu indicates at the symposium on "Understanding the Rise of China" that China has continued to expand its military over the past decade despite not facing any external military threat. It has become an increasingly active participant in the international community as its ambitions to play a leading role in the regional and international economy have become greater focus. The international community has perceived the rise of China as synonymous with the concept of the "China Threat." As a result, China has been forced in recent years to quickly establish a theory consistent with its slogan of "peaceful development." Taiwan is the main victim of China's military buildup and political oppression. Therefore, Taiwan must be a stronger presence in future international debate over the "China Threat" or the "peaceful rise of China."

November 14, 2005
The Straits Exchange Foundation writes the Association for Relations across the Taiwan Straits indicating its hope to conduct negotiations on the visit to Taiwan by China's Taiwan Affairs Office Director Chen Yunlin. The letter states that if China has any difficulty regarding this matter, then Taiwan can send representatives to China to conduct negotiations.

November 14, 2005
The Kinmen Coastal Patrol under the Coast Guard Administration meets resistance and is attacked by one of the vessels, Min-Chin Fishing Vessel No. 0242, when the Coast Patrol enforces the "Clear Sky Special Program" driving away two Chinese fishing vessels going beyond the border. The Chinese fishermen, together with their fishing vessels, are charged for violating the Act Governing Relations between Peoples of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area and the Criminal Law for obstructing public affairs. The case has been submitted to the Office of the Prosecutor at Kinmen for investigation.

November 14, 2005
Gen. Xiong Guangkai, deputy chief of the general staff of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA), indicates at the "Symposium on Sino-U.S. Relations" that the "Taiwanese independence" separatist forces and their activities are seriously affecting the security in the Taiwan Strait and Asia-Pacific region. Although there are more and more active factors at present that are advantageous in suppressing the "Taiwanese independence" separatist forces, Taiwanese leaders remain stubborn by insisting on their "Taiwanese independence" position. Without hesitation, we firmly vow to oppose and suppress the "Taiwanese independence" separatist forces.

November 14, 2005
Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi urges the U.S. at the Second Symposium on Sino-U.S. Relations to abide by the three Sino-U.S. communiques and its promises to oppose Taiwanese independence by refraining from selling military weapons to Taiwan and engaging in U.S.-Taiwan military contacts, as well as abstaining from making any official contact and exchanges with Taiwan. Mr. Yang hopes the U.S. will adopt practical actions to preserve the overall Sino-U.S. relations as well as peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.

November 16, 2005
While receiving the delegation to the APEC Informal Economic Leaders' Summit, President Chen Shui-bian indicates that APEC belongs to all members of the organization, including Taiwan. It does not belong to China alone. China has no say over Taiwan's participation in the meeting, and it certainly does not have the right to reject the representative appointed by the Taiwanese authorities.

November 16, 2005
Airline associations from both sides of the Strait meet in Macao for a joint discussion of matters pertaining to the Lunar New Year charter flights in 2006.

November 16, 2005
MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu indicates at the Legislative Yuan that the MAC is requesting both sides of the Strait to conduct negotiations first before Chen Yunlin can come to Taiwan to attend the forum between the Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) and the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). Rather than obstructing cross-strait exchanges, this is aimed at establishing normalized cross-strait procedures through negotiations. If the Taiwanese government agrees not to set any negotiation conditions, then the government authority and national security will be jeopardized. Therefore, negotiation is "a necessary procedure."

November 16, 2005
A MAC news release indicates that according to various information sources, cases of bird flu outbreaks have recently been discovered in eleven provinces in China. At present, Chinese officials have only offered partial and unclear explanations for only a handful of cases. Only six provinces made partial public announcements regarding the bird flu epidemic situation. The lack of action is clearly a dangerous signal for the global campaign against the spread of the disease. MAC reiterates that the government has the responsibility to guarantee the health and safety of its people. The Taiwanese government has already made necessary preparations to prevent the outbreak of bird flu. Due to close cross-strait interactions and frequent personnel exchanges, the Chinese authorities need to be more diligent and active in their approach when dealing with the complete disclosure of information related to the outbreak of bird flu in China. This is the only way to ensure that China does not become a fatal weak link in the global defenses against the spread of bird flu.

November 16, 2005
In a meeting with U.S. State Secretary Condoleeza Rice at the 17th Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Ministerial Summit at Pusan, Korea, Chinese Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing indicates that the proper handling of the Taiwan issue is the key to guaranteeing stable development of Sino-U.S. relations. It is hoped that the U.S. will work with China to jointly oppose and suppress Taiwanese independence and preserve the peace across the Strait and Sino-U.S. relations.

November 16, 2005
Taiwan Affairs Office Spokesperson Li Weiyi indicates that Deputy Director Wang Zaixi is leaving for the U.S. to attend an academic symposium in New York. The symposium is an academic exchange activity held by scholars from China and the U.S. and is not a so-called "closed door round-table conference between China, the U.S., and Taiwan" where Taiwanese delegates will be present. The planning of a national highway from Beijing to Taipei is a necessity to guarantee the integrity of the national highway network. This project is considered for implementation under the premise that it is fully feasible. With regard to Chen Yunlin's plan to visit Taiwan to attend a cross-strait economic, trade, and cultural forum, Li Weiyi states that it is hoped that the Taiwan authorities will pragmatically handle the matter and provide the necessary conveniences.

November 16, 2005
China's State Forestry Administration Spokesman Cao Qingyao indicates today at a press conference that China is in the process of selecting the pandas to be donated to Taiwan.

November 17, 2005
With regard to China's Taiwan Affairs Office Director Chen Yunlin and other TAO officials' application to visit Taiwan, the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) is authorized again by the government to write to the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Straits (ARATS) after making the initial contact on November 14, 2005. It is hoped that the ARATS can relay pertinent information and make a clear response as soon as possible to facilitate the handling of follow-up matters.

November 17, 2005
Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Liu Jianchao indicates at a regular press conference that there is only one China in the world, and that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China. The People's Republic of China is the sole legal government representing the entire China, and this is a fact that is recognized by the absolute majority of the countries in the world and by the majority of the member countries of the United Nations. Therefore, any individual stating that Taiwan is a sovereign and independent country might be ignorant or might say so with political motivation in mind, which we firmly refuse to accept.

November 18, 2005
The Red Cross organizations across the Strait cooperate in the repatriation of the Taiwanese crew of the Kaohsiung-registered "Hsiang-Chuan-Shun" fishing vessel, which was knocked over on November 9, 2005 by a moving freighter when it was engaged in fishing activities at a sea area off Kinmen.

November 18, 2005
The Straits Exchange Foundation writes to convey its sympathy to the victims of the earthquake in the areas of Jiujiang and Ruichang in Jiangxi Province, which led to deaths and major losses.

November 18, 2005
The MAC announces that on the foundation of this year's Lunar New Year charter flights, the planning of similar charter flights will be allowed to proceed with stopovers in Hong Kong. The charter flight period for the 2006 Lunar New Year will be from January 20 to February 13, 2006, totaling 25 days. Relevant arrangements will be handled according to the operation model used for the 2005 Lunar New Year charter flights. However, the destination points in China will be expanded to include Xiamen in addition to Shanghai, Beijing and Guangzhou. The number of flights will be increased from 48 to 72 (36 flights from each side of the Strait); and the scope of qualified passengers will be expanded to include not only the responsible persons and employees of Taiwanese companies and their dependents as in 2005, but also any resident of the Taiwan Area holding a legal entry and exit permit issued by both sides.

November 18, 2005
The MAC issues a news release indicating that with regard to China's Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) Director Chen Yunlin's plan to lead a 61-member delegation of TAO officials to Taiwan to attend the "Cross-Strait Economic, Trade and Cultural Forum" at the invitation of the National Policy Foundation, the "Joint Review Meeting on Visits to Taiwan by Mainland Professionals" was convened by the Immigration Office of the National Police Agency, Ministry of the Interior. It was decided to deny permission for the proposed visit for reasons of "present situation of cross-strait relations," "international practice," and "objective of improving cross-strait relations."

November 18, 2005
He Shizhong, Director of Bureau of Economic Affairs of the Taiwan Affairs Office, indicates at a press conference that China welcomes the consensus reached by the civic aviation sectors across the Strait on the 2006 Lunar New Year charter flights. At the same time, China believes that there is an improvement in the scope of passengers allowed on the charter flights and the arrangements made regarding the destinations and the number of flights as compared with the 2005 Lunar New Year charter flights. However, this is still a special case, which cannot fully meet the actual needs of the compatriots on both sides of the Strait. More specifically, this case cannot benefit the Chinese compatriots holding valid entry visas issued by both sides of the Strait. The destination points of the charter flights are limited and the flights need to go by a roundabout route over the Hong Kong Flight Information Region, which fails to achieve cross-strait direct air links in a true sense.

November 18, 2005
Li Jinxiang, deputy director of the veterinary bureau under China's Ministry of Agriculture, indicates at a regular press conference of the Taiwan Affairs Office that China has reported to Taiwan regarding the outbreak of a highly pathogenic avian flu epidemic in China through the Beijing-based "Association of Agricultural Exchange for Both Sides of the Straits." China invites and welcomes Taiwan's experts to commence cooperation and go to China to inspect epidemic control measures.

November 18, 2005
The Sixth Chinese Science and Humanities Forum is held at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. Chinese State Council's Taiwan Affairs Office Director Chen Yunlin is invited to deliver a speech on "An In-depth Discussion of the Taiwan Issue and China's Work on Taiwan from a Historical Perspective."

November 18, 2005
China's Xinhua News Agency reports that the People's Bank of China has officially written a reply the other day to approve the free exchange of currency and the opening of renminbi settlement accounts between travel agencies in Fujian Province and in Taiwan.

November 18, 2005
The Fujian Province Earthquake Disaster Emergency Relief Team is officially organized, which will not only assist in the development of anti-seismic disaster relief work and set up relief forces in Fujian Province, but will also provide appropriate humanitarian relief assistance to Taiwan when earthquake disasters occur in Taiwan.

November 20, 2005
At a joint conference with visiting U.S. President George Bush, Chinese President Hu Jintao indicates that he has reiterated to President Bush that the Chinese government and people have tried hard to maintain peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. They hope to achieve the prospect of a peaceful reunification of the country with their utmost sincerity and greatest effort. They will never tolerate "Taiwanese independence."

November 21, 2005
In his report on the "Influence of the Recent Sino-U.S. Interaction on Cross-Strait Relations" at the Home and Nations Committee of the Legislative Yuan, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu indicates that after China's enactment of the anti-separation law, it has resorted to more flexible actions to divert the focus and attempted to blur the peremptory nature of the law. With the rise of China and the growing imbalance in military strengths between both sides of the Strait, "cross-strait relations are in a state of structural transformation." At present, the Taiwanese government must address an important task of preserving peace and stability across the Strait and playing a more active role in regional cooperation and development.

November 22, 2005
While receiving former Secretary for Relations with States of the Holy See, His Eminence Jean-Louis Tauran, MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu indicates that Taiwan is a country where the people enjoy full religious freedom that is worth the emulation of China. If the Vatican puts importance on religious freedom in China, then it should consider enabling Taiwan to play the role of "promoting religious freedom in China." The Vatican's maintenance of diplomatic relations with Taiwan will become a lever for spurring China into respecting religious freedom.

November 22, 2005
Vice-Director Li Changyou of the Bureau of Exit & Entry Administration under China's Ministry of Public Security indicates that with regard to the visits to Taiwan by Chinese residents, China has been actively promoting the policy in accordance with related plans and measures and in a step-by-step manner. As to whether there is a timetable, Li Changyou states that this should be fully negotiated. The matter on volume control will depend on the outcome of the cross-strait negotiations.

November 22, 2005
While delivering the opening address at the First Guangxi-Taiwan Economic and Trade Exchanges Conference, Chinese State Council's Taiwan Affairs Office Deputy Director Zheng Lizhong indicates that from 1988 to October 2005, the Chinese authorities have approved a total of more than 67,700 Taiwanese investments for a total volume of over 87 billion U.S. dollars, while the actual amount of Taiwanese investments is over 41 billion U.S. dollars. China has become Taiwan's biggest export market and trading partner with which Taiwan has the largest trade surplus.

November 23, 2005
The Second Asian Forum on the Peaceful Reunification of China hosted by the Association for Promoting Peaceful Reunification of China in the Philippines is concluded in Manila. China's Taiwan Affairs Office Deputy Director Wang Zaixi indicates that as long as the Taiwan authorities acknowledge the one China and the "1992 Consensus," cross-strait dialogue and negotiations can resume immediately and any issue can be discussed.

November 24, 2005
While receiving the foreign participants of the "Fifth International Conference on Vision of Democracy and Security in the Asia-Pacific Region," President Chen Shui-bian calls on the international community to cautious of the so-called " rise of China." President Chen believes that the " rise of China" must be accompanied by a "peaceful rise" and a "beginning of democracy," instead of "military expansion" or "belligerent rhetoric and military intimidation toward Taiwan." China must become fully democratized first, able to uphold freedom and human rights for its people, and respect the Taiwanese people's rights and interests in seeking continued existence and development. Only when these goals are achieved can cross-strait relations be developed on a sound foundation that creates a "win-win" situation for both sides of the Strait as well as provide real protection for regional security.

November 26, 2005
At a welcome party in Kunming held in honor of the Taiwan Visitors Association for attending the travel fair for the first time, China National Tourism Administration Director Shao Qiwei announces that the tourism sector in China will also participate in the "Cross-Strait Travel Fair" to be held in Taipei next year.

November 28, 2005
The Cross-Strait Agricultural and Technological Cooperation Summit Forum opens at the Flower Expo Park in Zhangzhou, Fujian. The Forum is also one of the major events at the Seventh Flowers and Plants Exhibition (Zhangzhou, Fijian) across the Taiwan Straits and Agricultural Cooperation Conference.

November 29, 2005
In a meeting with Professor Robert F. Engle, laureate of the 2003 Nobel Prize for Economics and his wife, President Chen Shui-bian indicates that cross-strait trade relationships can not be measured strictly from the perspective of economics. Non-economic issues must be taken into consideration, such as the political risks.

November 29, 2005
The aviation agreement signed between the Taipei Airlines Association (Taiwan) and Air Macau (Macau) expires on November 29, 2005. Both sides will sign a renewal document today to extend the validity of the current agreement to May 30, 2006. During this period, a new bilateral agreement will replace the existing agreement once both sides reach a consensus.

November 29, 2005
The MAC publishes the results of a public opinion survey, showing that 85.4 percent of the population supports the statement "when Taiwan's political parties engage in cross-strait exchanges with China, they should prioritize the protection of Taiwan's interests." As to visits to Taiwan by high-ranking Chinese officials, as high as 74.4 percent of the respondents believe that any issue involving the rights and interests of the Taiwanese people should be discussed first with the government. In addition, more than half (54.9 percent) of the population agrees that the government should play a leading role in cross-strait negotiations. This is aimed at taking Taiwan's overall interests into consideration.

November 29, 2005
The World Trade Organization Informal Leaders' Summit discusses the draft of the Hong Kong Ministerial Declaration. The Chinese delegation proposes that the draft Declaration must have an independent paragraph stating that "new member countries" can be eligible for more flexible treatment (i.e. reduced tariff cuts). Taiwanese delegate Lin Yi-fu speaks in support of China's suggestion.

November 29, 2005
In a forum with overseas Chinese in New York's educational and academic community, PRC Taiwan Affairs Office Deputy Director Wang Zaixi indicates that Taiwan's elections will not affect the trend of the development of cross-strait relations. As long as the Taiwanese authorities acknowledge the "1992 Consensus," cross-strait dialogue and negotiations can resume at any time and any issue can be discussed.

December 1, 2005
In an interview with Eastern Broadcasting Co., President Chen emphasizes that Taiwan must maintain its own identity and place priority on national security. To consider only what is convenient or commercially profitable would be to put the cart before the horse.

December 1, 2005
MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu announces that the government of Taiwan has allowed Hong Kong's Wen Wei Po to station reporters in Taiwan and welcomes Wen Wei Po to quickly complete stationing procedures. The Council expresses that if other Hong Kong or China media were interested in stationing reporters in Taiwan, it would be happy to see such plans realized.

December 2, 2005
The Executive Yuan approves operational measures for cross-strait Lunar New Year charter flights in 2006. The Civil Aeronautics Administration (CAA) expresses that once the measures are announced, airlines on both sides should prepare their applications and copies of the charter flight contracts, and obtain time slots from coordinating personnel at airports on both sides 10 days prior to commencing flight service. They should then submit applications to CAA. Chinese airline operators may commission a Taiwanese airline company to file the application on their behalf. CAA will promptly complete the review and approval process after receiving the applications.

December 2, 2005
The Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) convenes its Sixth Joint Meeting of the Board of Directors and Supervisory Board. The meeting approves the reappointment of Chang Chun-hsiung and Michael You as chairman and vice chairman respectively.

December 2, 2005
Vice Minster Wang Zaixi of China's Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) states in Washington D.C. that the election results in Taiwan would not have a major impact on the progress of cross-strait relations. He expresses the view that the use of economic sanctions to oppose Taiwan independence would be unadvisable. The development of cross-strait economic and trade relations is very important to the exchanges between both sides and cannot be broken off because of a small minority of people. He also emphasizes that China does not exclude the possibility of holding of talks with any party in Taiwan and has consistently promoted the resumption of official talks between the two sides on the basis of the "1992 Consensus." He indicates that the present obstacle is the Taiwanese authorities' insistence on a "Taiwan independence" position.

December 3, 2005
TAO spokesperson Li Weiyi states that China has closely monitored the election outcome in Taiwan and hopes that cross-strait relations can continue to develop along a peaceful and stable course.

December 5, 2005
MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu states to the media in Washington D.C. that the government of Taiwan is now considering the establishment of new private organization to serve as Taiwan's counterpart to the private "Association of travel exchange for both sides of the straits," which was recently established and entrusted by the Chinese government to handle negotiations on allowing cross-strait tourism. Chairman Wu appeals for the two sides to adopt the Macao model in cross-strait negotiations with the presence of government officials at the negotiating table. He says that if many economic and trade issues can be discussed according to the Macao model, then Taiwan can find concrete and flexible methods to work out issues that are beneficial to both sides.

December 5, 2005
SEF forms a "Volunteer Lawyer Team" consist of knowledgeable lawyers of cross-strait legal affairs. The volunteer lawyers will serve on a rotational basis and provide answers to questions of the public regarding cross-strait laws.

December 7, 2005
According to a survey by the Chinese National Federation of Industries, 63% of all Taiwanese entrepreneurs expect business to be good in 2006. However, the ratio of respondents planning to reduce investments in the up coming year surpassed 5% for the first time. This is has rarely occurred in the surveys over the years.

December 7, 2005
China's State Administration of Taxation announces that the monitoring of key tax revenue sources will be expanded again in 2006. The move will affect Taiwanese businesspeople who enjoy preferential export tax rebates and do not meet the monitoring standards.

December 9, 2005
At a press briefing, MAC Vice Chairman David W.F. Huang notes that Article 9-1 of the "Act Governing Relations between Peoples of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area" stipulates that people of the Taiwan area may not have household registrations in the mainland area or hold mainland passports. Those who do will automatically lose their status as a resident of the ROC in the Taiwan area.

December 9, 2005
A working meeting between defense officials of China and the U.S. is held in Beijing from December 8-9, 2005. In meetings with a U.S. Department of Defense delegation, Deputy Chief Xiong Guankai of the General Staff of China's People's Liberation Army emphasizes that proper handling of the Taiwan issue is the key to the stable development of military relations between China and the U.S. Opposing and containing "Taiwan independence" and maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait are consistent with the shared interests of China and the U.S. China hopes that the U.S. will sincerely carry out its promise by joining with China to oppose and contain "Taiwan independence." It hopes that the U.S. will not send the wrong signals to Taiwan, in order to maintain peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and uphold the joint interests of China and the U.S.

December 9, 2005
During a visit to the Zhongpu Wholesale Fruit Market in Xiamen, TAO Director Chen Yunlin notes that the market is the biggest shipment distribution center in China for Taiwanese fruit. In the future, more Taiwanese fruit will be distributed from the center onto other areas of China. He notes that "supporting economic development on the west shore of the Taiwan Strait and areas with concentrations of Taiwanese investment" has become a "major constituent part" of China's Taiwan work. China's TAO will actively support economic development on the west shore of the strait.

December 11, 2005
MAC Chairman Jaushieh Joseph Wu indicates that the Shanwei incident shows that many hidden unstable factors exist in China. If protest incidents continue to occur in China, it could affect cross-strait relations and Taiwan should pay close attention.

December 13, 2005
The MAC publishes Know Thyself, Know Others. The book hopes to provide a comprehensive understanding of the internal situation in China. The book covers four major areas, including social conditions, travel and overseas study, living environment, and business and investment.

December 14, 2005
In a meeting with members of a delegation from the Atlantic Council of the United States, President Chen states that in promoting the normalization of cross-strait relations, Taiwan must adhere to the four principles of "sovereignty, democracy, peace and equality." The principle of sovereignty refers to the hope that China can recognize and respect the fact of ROC's existence on Taiwan. The principle of democracy refers to the hope that China respects the free will of the 23 million Taiwanese people in the course of cross-strait developments or changes in Taiwan's future. The principle of peace means that differences of views between the two sides must be peacefully resolved through dialogue, not by force or other non-peaceful means. The principle of equality means that cross-strait issues and differences of views must be resolved through negotiations and discussions between the two governments.

December 14, 2005
The MAC says that the Taiwanese government will remain committed to promoting cross-strait policy based on the principle of "peace and development" in the future. However, with regard to the adoption of concrete measures to promote cross-strait exchanges and interactions, the government will remain open to various suggestions and promote measures that serve the overall interests of Taiwan. The Council hopes that China will not unilaterally or falsely interpret the will of the Taiwanese people. With regard to the group application submitted by China's Taiwan Affairs Office Director Chen Yunlin and his delegation to visit Taiwan, the Council emphasizes that this case has high political significance. This case can only be handled appropriately through official cross-strait negotiations. However, as China has not made any positive response to date, it is only natural that this application cannot be permitted.

December 14, 2005
At a regular TAO press briefing, Spokesperson Li Weiyi clarifies that China does not currently require the exchange of Taiwanese visitor certificates into resident ID cards. He also announces that the maximum stationing period of Taiwanese reporters in China will be extended to three months and the competent authorities for civil aviation in China have approved six airlines to provide cross-strait Lunar New Year charter flights.

December 15, 2005
At the screening of the documentary film "White Witness" , President Chen states that in the course of contacts and exchanges with China, the people of Taiwan should not overly glamorize China's economic growth and neglect or dismiss China's appalling record in human rights and the political realm.

December 15, 2005
Taiwan Democratic Self-Government League holds a general meeting, during which Lin Wenyi is elected as the new league chairman. At the opening ceremony, Lin notes that in 2006 the league will step up work in three areas, namely: strengthening input in politics and policy proposals, enhancing cross-strait exchanges, and strengthening the league's self-development. He says that economic cooperation with Taiwan is the most distinguishing of the league's major tasks.

December 16, 2005
The MAC announces the results of a public opinion survey showing that 52.3% of the Taiwan public supports a moderate relaxing of the "mini-three-links" to conditionally allow Taiwanese people to travel to China via this route. However, about 50.1% worry that complete relaxation of the Kinmen and Matsu areas as the channel for cross-strait travel will affect national security. Moreover, 71.8% worry that it will jeopardize Taiwan's efforts to prevent the spread of epidemic diseases.

December 16, 2005
Public security agencies in Guangdong Province arrest and repatriate Chen Kuan-hsin and Chang Chi-sheng to Taiwan, who are both wanted for major criminal offenses.

December 19, 2005
The Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) holds the "Cross-Strait Economic, Trade and Cultural Forum." The original decision of a Joint Review Meeting convened by the Immigration Office of the National Police Agency, Ministry of the Interior (MOI), to deny permission for a proposed visit by Director Chen Yunlin of China's Taiwan Affairs Office, is upheld against an appeal by KMT. The MOI recently submitted a written response to the Petitions and Appeals Committee of the Executive Yuan for consideration. The committee overturned KMT's appeal.

December 19, 2005
The Third Rural Official Forum is held in Changsha City, Hunan Province from Dec. 19 to 21, 2005. The forum is attended by Taiwanese representatives for the first time.

December 20, 2005
With regards to the Hong Kong police's detention of Taiwanese individuals participating in demonstrations during the Sixth WTO Ministerial Conference, MAC states that it has gained thorough understanding of the case and has immediately instructed its Hong Kong Affairs Bureau to provide assistance. Premier Frank Hsieh specifically instructed MAC to make every effort to handle the case properly. All the effort eventually led to the successful release of 11 of the 12 detainees between Dec. 19 and the morning of Dec. 20. At present, only Lee Chien-cheng, a political science student at National Taiwan University (NTU), remains in custody. The MAC also expresses that it will exert all effort in the handling of this case.

December 21, 2005
The China Development Bank and TAO announce the "Temporary Measures for the Provision of Loans to Taiwan Invested Enterprises by the China Development Bank."

December 23, 2005
The Hong Kong court rules that NTU political science student Lee Chien-cheng, who was detained by the Hong Kong police for participating in demonstrations during the Sixth WTO Ministerial Conference, will be released on bail and return to Taiwan.

December 24, 2005
Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait (ARATS) Chairman Wang Daohan passes away at 7:00 a.m. on Dec. 24, 2005. The MAC expresses its condolences and the SEF sends a letter of condolence to ARATS.

December 26, 2005
The MAC indicates that the "mini-three-links" program will be expanded during the 2006 Lunar New Year holidays to allow the residents of Kinmen and Matsu to travel freely in and out of China without the previous requirement to travel as a group.

December 26, 2005
With regards to major bird flu outbreaks in China, MAC says that while the authorities in China have gone public about the epidemic, the announcements have been delayed. This has led to skepticism within the neighboring countries and relevant international organizations regarding the Chinese government's disclosure of the epidemic. In response to the epidemic in China, disease prevention agencies in Taiwan have drafted a "Mobilization and Preparatory Plan for Bird Flu Prevention." The government will rigorously control the spread of the disease and devote its effort to maintain Taiwan as a bird flu-free area.

December 26, 2005
TAO and ARATS issue a joint press release stating that China's Taiwan affairs personnel will carry on the spirit of Wang Daohan by continuing to promote the resumption of cross-strait dialogue and negotiations on the basis of the "one China" principle. To continue the promotion of development of cross-strait relations towards peace and stability and by "promoting progress toward the peaceful unification of the motherland."

December 26, 2005
China will implement sea transport services between Xiamen and Kinmen during the Lunar New Year holiday from Jan 20 to Feb. 13, 2006. Six vessels will offer 12 trips daily during this period.

December 28, 2005
The ARATS sends a letter to the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) asking that the Foundation to respect the wishes of the family of the late Chairman Wang Daohan with regards to the funeral arrangements.

December 29, 2005
China's Ministry of Commerce announces a decision to immediately start anti-dumping investigations against nonyl phenol imported from India and Taiwan.

December 30, 2005
The ARATS sends a letter to SEF conveying the gratitude of the family of the late ARATS Chairman Wang Daohan for SEF's condolences.

December 31, 2005
In his 2006 New Year's message, China's President Hu Jintao expresses that China would adhere to the fundamental policy of "peaceful reunification and one country, two systems," never waver on adhering to the one China principle, never give up on promoting peaceful reunification, never change the policy of pinning hope on the Taiwanese people and never compromise on opposing "Taiwan independence" secessionist activities. He indicates that China will actively promote exchange and cooperation on both sides of the Taiwan Strait, safeguard peace and stability across the strait and promote the great cause of peaceful reunification.

December 31, 2005
China's ambassador to the U.S. Zhou Wenzhong states in an interview with Xinhua News Agency that refusal to recognize the one China principle by the Taiwanese authorities and seccessionist forces in Taiwan continue to be the root causes threating peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and hindering cross-strait relations.