Mainland Affairs Council

January 1, 2003
In his New Year Day Message, President Chen Shui-bian mentions that there is a need for both sides of the Strait to establish an "interaction framework for peace and stability," which can serve as a major objective in the present stage to which both sides can strive for together.

January 3, 2003
With regard to the New Year's Day message statement of President Chen Shui-bian, the Spokesperson of the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office expresses that cross-Strait relations will gain a significant improvement as long as Taiwan's leaders consider the interests of the Taiwanese compatriots, sincerely approve of cross-Strait direct links and agree to resume dialogue and negotiations under the foundation of the "1992 Consensus" reached by the SEF and the ARATS.

January 5, 2003
At the New Year tea party of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, Mainland CPC General Secretary Hu Jintao points out that in the new year, the Mainland Government will, as usual, be firm in its basic guiding principles of "peaceful unification and one country, two systems," and the eight-point proposal of Jiang Zemin on the present stage development of cross-Strait relations, and on leading the nation on the road to peaceful unification, as well as promote the resumption of cross-Strait dialogue and negotiations under the foundation of the principle of "one China," reinforce cross-Strait interaction and exchanges, actively promote cross-Strait direct "Three-Links," and firmly oppose any separatist movement of "Taiwanese independence" advocates.

January 10, 2003
In an address at the opening ceremony of the first class of the Strategic Studies Program of the National Security Bureau, President Chen Shui-bian expresses his belief that the current moment provides a new opportunity for reopening cross-Strait talks and negotiations, and hopes that both sides of the Strait return to sincere negotiations and dialogue, and widely exchange views on issues that concern both, in order to ease cross-Strait relations and stabilize the cross-Strait situation.

January 11, 2003
Kinmen's "Oriental Star" vessel carries a 145-strong delegation, composed of the Yang clan and representatives from all sectors in Kinmen and headed by Kinmen County Councilor Yang Ying-hsiung, and docks at Houzhu Harbor in Quanzhou. This materializes the first direct passenger transport link between Kinmen and Quanzhou in more than 50 years.

January 15, 2003
The Mainland's National Conference of Taiwan Affairs Office Directors lowers the curtain and PRC Vice Premier Qian Qichen points out in the closing ceremony that the cross-Strait "Three-Links" are an economic affair, and that negotiations need not involve the political significance of "one China," but should be actively promoted based on the principle that "political divergence should not affect and interfere with the spirit of cross-Strait economic cooperation."

January 16, 2003
In a meeting with the US Congressional Taiwan Caucus, President Chen Shui-bian expresses that only after the long-term political divergent views between both sides of the Strait are put aside can negotiations start. Now since we cannot accept the Mainland's so-called principles of "one China" and "one country, two systems," and we have been suppressed in the diplomatic arena and threatened by its deployment of missiles, therefore we cannot sit down to talk on issues that concern the "Three-Links" and the direct transportation links. This has to do with the inability to put aside political prejudices. Therefore, we hope to establish a structure for cross-Strait peace and stability to dissolve these prejudices.

January 18, 2003
In a tea party at the Office of the President with participating guests of the "International Inter-Parliamentary Conference ," President Chen Shui-bian reiterates and explains three points, namely, 1) Taiwan is a sovereign and independent state, and not part of any other country; it is not a local province of another country, and neither is it a special administrative region of another country; 2) only Taiwan's 23 million citizens have the right to choose and decide over the future of Taiwan; and 3) Taiwan will remain as it is in 2005, and will never become a "second Hong Kong" or a "Chinese federation."

January 20, 2003
In a meeting with members of the US National Committee on American Foreign Policy Delegation, President Chen Shui-bian expresses that the opportunities in future cross-Strait relations are on the side of Taiwan. The Mainland's setting of its Taiwan policy only until 2004 is a big mistake. Our Government will remain running until after 2004. Both sides of the Strait need only to maintain peace and stability in the future and do not expect to have any changes and breakthroughs in the short term.

January 21, 2003
In a year-end press conference, MAC Chairperson Tsai Ing-wen points out that the cross-Strait direct transportation links have positive and negative effects on Taiwan's economy, and involve complicated matters such as national security and economic security. It is hoped that this will not be treated as a political issue. It is also hoped that both sides of the Strait open negotiations on the issue of direct transportation links as soon as possible. It is better that earlier negotiations on cross-Strait direct transportation links be conducted.

January 21, 2003
In an interview with the US think tank, the Research Institute for Foreign Policies, President Chen Shui-bian emphasizes that Taiwan is not a part, a local government, or a province of another country. He also calls on the Beijing Government to face the reality of Taiwan-China relations, reopen talks, and strengthen exchanges as soon as possible. Only in this way will mutual trust be established, that will pave the way for dialogue between the high-level officials of both sides.

January 23, 2003
In an inspection tour at Kinmen, Premier Yu Shyi-kun calls on the Mainland to make breakthroughs in the development of the "Mini-Three-Links" by coming to the negotiating table for a dialogue.

January 24, 2003
MAC Department of Research and Planning Director Jan Jyr-horng tells the media that both sides of the Strait signed an agreement in 1991 making the SEF and the ARATS, the "civilian intermediate organizations," to represent both parties in cross-Strait negotiations. Now that both sides have a common concern, which is the issue on the "direct transportation links," it is best that they resume institutionalized negotiations through this channel.

January 24, 2003
At the forum held in commemoration of the 8th anniversary of Jiang's "Eight-Point Proposal," The Mainland central government's Taiwan Affairs Office and the State Council's Taiwan Affairs Office Director Chen Yunlin points out that the chartered flights during the Lunar New Year that will take Taiwanese businessmen back to Taiwan and the direct "Three-Links" are a separate issue. The Mainland side expresses intention for the pragmatic promotion and active implementation of the "Three-Links" and welcomes mayors and magistrates of cities and counties in Taiwan to pay a visit to the Mainland someday.

January 26, 2003
Cross-Strait Lunar New Year chartered flights scheme sets a historical record. The MAC points out that the policy of indirect chartered flights has been implemented as planned and shows the Government's good intentions toward Taiwanese businessmen in the Mainland. This is also beneficial to positive interaction between both sides of the Strait.

January 27, 2003
At a press conference commemorating his anniversary in office, Premier Yu Shyi-kun talks on cross-Strait relations and reiterates that the "Three-Links" are not a panacea, and since it can possibly bring about positive and negative effects on Taiwan's industries, both sides of the Strait should talk and negotiate under the principles of sovereignty, parity, and dignity, as soon as possible.

January 31, 2003
At a Lunar New Year mass greetings ceremony, PRC Premier Zhu Rongji issues a statement expressing that the Mainland will continue to be firm in the basic guiding principles of "peaceful unification and one country, two systems" and in Jiang Zemin's "Eight-Point Proposal." The Mainland opposes any separatist movements of any "Taiwanese independence groups," actively enhances the cross-Strait direct "Three-Links," and reinforces exchanges and cooperation on economics and culture.

February 6, 2003
President Chen Shui-bian writes Pope John Paul II expressing his earnest wish that the tensions across the Taiwan Strait and the Korean Peninsula will diminish and the hope for dialogue and peace will grow as time goes on.

February 7, 2003
The Ministry of Economic Affairs announces that Taiwanese newspapers can be shipped to the Mainland area via Kinmen and Matsu and effective immediately.

February 14, 2003
The Institute of East Asian Studies of the National University of Singapore says that it has invited Koo Chen-fu and Wang Daohan, the high-level representatives to the cross-Strait talks, to the historic meeting in Singapore on the occasion of the 10th anniversary of the Koo-Wang talks.

February 16, 2003
PRC Vice Premier Qian Qichen expresses that the chartered flights during the Lunar New Year and the routes between Xiamen and Kinmen and between Mawei and Matsu are a "one ticket for the entire flight" transport scheme over land, air, and water, and provide convenience to the travel needs of Taiwanese compatriots. The people concerned on both sides of the Strait should work together to promote real direct flights and the cross-Strait "Three-Links."

February 18, 2003
The SEF writes the Mainland's ARATS calling on the Mainland side to work together to prevent the worsening of travel conflicts, which involves the safety of people's lives and material possession, in accordance with the previous consensus between both parties, in order to guarantee the interests of Taiwanese travelers.

February 20, 2003
In an address to the Hsieh Nien Fan (or Year-End) Banquet of the American Chamber of Commerce, President Chen Shui-bian points out that Taipei and Beijing need to engage in trade and economic cooperation in order to lay a sound foundation for the long-term development of cross-Strait relations.

February 22, 2003
Forty Taiwanese people board flights to Hong Kong on February 21 and are refused entry by the Hong Kong SAR Government and deported via the same aircraft to Taiwan. Some of them were even carried to the airport by Hong Kong Government personnel with bound hands and legs. We express our serious protest against the barbaric actions of the Hong Kong Government, which disregard human rights.

February 20, 2003
In a meeting with the visiting delegation of the Association of Independent Legislators of Taiwan headed by Legislator Walis Pelin at the Zhongnanhai in Beijing, Qian Qichen expresses that an important mark of the improvement of cross-Strait relations is the resumption of cross-Strait dialogue and negotiations.

February 27, 2003
The MAC's Taipei Economic & Cultural Center officially starts issuing Taiwan entry visas to Macao's residents and foreign nationals in Macao.

March 4, 2003
At the 1st session of the Mainland's 10th National People's Congress, Spokesperson Jiang Enzhu clearly points out that its Taiwan policy will remain unchanged after the 10th Congress. Whatever changes will occur in the Mainland's leadership in the future, it is clear that its basic guiding principles on Taiwan will remain unchanged. This is to stand firm in "peaceful unification and one country, two systems."

March 5, 2003
At the 1st session of the 10th National People's Congress, PRC Premier Zhu Rongji states his government work report. In the future, the Mainland's Taiwan policy will still abide by the basic guiding principles of "peaceful unification and one country, two systems," as well as Jiang's "Eight-Point Proposal," in order to fight for the resumption of cross-Strait talks and negotiations as soon as possible on the basis of the principle of "one China." It will also oppose any statement and behavior that will create an independent Taiwan, or two Chinas, or one China and one Taiwan. In the future, cross-Strait personnel exchanges and cooperation will be expanded, and the cross-Strait direct "Three-Links" will be actively promoted.

March 9, 2003
Regular Sunday commercial "Mini-Three-Links" routes between Kinmen and Xiamen start with five vessels sailing in both directions between Kinmen and Xiamen, providing convenient transport for passengers traveling between both ports.

March 9, 2003
The Mainland State Council's Taiwan Affairs Office Spokesperson Zhang Mingqing reiterates that the Mainland has disapproved allowing foreign capital to invest in cross-Strait transport.

March 11, 2003
In a meeting with the "Group of Overseas Chinese from Florida and the Southern United States," President Chen Shui-bian points out that the overseas Chinese community should unite regardless of political affiliation in the face of the Mainland's wooing their support in anti-independence activities to promote unification and to shut the ROC out of the international community. They should throw their weight behind the Global Alliance for Democracy and Peace in fighting for the international community's recognition of democratic Taiwan and to counter the Communist threat.

March 11, 2003
PRC Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Kung Quan states the hope for the European Commission to abide by the principle of "one China" in action, by strictly adhering to the agreement that offices concerned may not engage in any political and diplomatic activities, and that no official relations be developed in any form with Taiwan.

March 11, 2003
Attending a conference of the Taiwan delegation of the 1st session of the 10th National People's Congress, CPC General Secretary Hu Jintao proposes four recommendations on the work on Taiwan under the new trend, and emphasizes that as long as Taiwan clearly accepts the principle of "one China," both sides of the Strait can resume dialogue and negotiations immediately.

March 15, 2003
The 1st conference of the Mainland's 10th National People's Congress elects Jiang Zemin as Chairman of the Central Military Commission.

March 16, 2003
The Mainland's 10th National People's Congress holds the 6th plenary session of its 1st conference, where in a smooth transition Wen Jiabao replaces Zhu Rongji as Premier of the State Council.

March 18, 2003
At the press conference for local and foreign journalists after the closing of the 1st conference of the 10th National People's Congress, PRC newly-appointed State Council Premier Wen Jiabao expresses that the new government will firmly implement the guiding principles of "peaceful unification and one country, two systems" and advocate that both sides of the Strait resume dialogue and negotiations as soon as possible on the basis of the principle of "one China." It is opposed against Taiwan independence, will continue to promote cross-Strait economic and cultural exchanges, push for an immediate implementation of cross-Strait direct "Three-Links," and strive for more progress in peaceful unification.

March 20, 2003
In connection with the US war on Iraq, which is a major international event, the MAC reiterates that the search for peace and stability in cross-Strait relations has always been an objective of the Government. In the past two and a half years, the Government has also been taking concrete steps to ease and improve cross-Strait relations.

March 20, 2003
With regard to the US-UK coalition force officially declaring war on Iraq, President Chen Shui-bian issues the Government's stance at the air base in Shuishang, Chiayi. He calls on the Mainland to help maintain stability on both sides of the Taiwan Strait and the Asia-Pacific region. Moreover, he calls on Asia-Pacific countries, the US, Japan, and South Korea, to maintain peace and stability in the region together.

March 20, 2003
The Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office and the Ministry of Civil Affairs jointly promulgate the "Temporary Guidelines for the Management of Taiwanese Businessmens' Associations" wherein Article 11 stipulates that the president and vice president of the Taiwanese Businessmen's Associations should "adhere to the principle of "one China," support national reunification, and actively work hard for the enhancement of cross-Strait economic exchanges and cooperation."

March 21, 2003
Pu Zhaozhou, Director of the Office of Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macao Affairs of the Civil Aviation Administration of China, expresses that due to US military action against Iraq, it is opening up the Mainland's air space for passage of aircraft of Taiwanese airline companies in order to guarantee flight safety of civilian aircraft. Hope is made that Taiwanese airline companies submit their applications as early as possible, and so negotiations could be made on concrete technical details.

March 25, 2003
The MAC resolves that the scope of the implementation of the "Mini-Three-Links" at Kinmen and Matsu will be temporarily suspended to prevent the risk of the spread of SARS in the areas of Kinmen and Matsu.

March 25, 2003
In an address at the 2nd joint conference of the SEF's 5th Board of Directors and Board of Supervisors, Chairman Koo Chen-foo points out that this year is the 10th anniversary of the "Koo-Wang Talks." However, it is regrettable that the SEF and the ARATS are not able to operate normally due to recent political conflicts between both sides of the Strait.

March 26, 2003
In a regular press conference, the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office Spokesperson Zhang Mingqing reiterates that the bases for the resumption of cross-Strait talks are the principle of "One China" and the "1992 Consensus," and that talking about resuming contact between both parties is not realistic as long as Taiwan authorities do not acknowledge the "1992 Consensus."

March 26, 2003
At a Taiwan Affairs Office press conference, Zhang Mingqing expresses that the Mainland expresses its utmost sincerity and goodwill intentions toward the Koo-Wang talks. The problem lies on the Taiwan side. Only when Taiwan acknowledges the "one China" and the "1992 Consensus" will "negotiations and dialogue between the SEF and the ARATS be resumed immediately."

March 28, 2003
In order to fight the SARS epidemic, the Executive Yuan calls on the people to refrain from going to the Mainland, Hong Kong, and Vietnam, in order to prevent further spread of the disease through cross-Strait contact. The MAC announces that the visa of Mainland spouses and high-tech personnel in Taiwan is automatically extended if already expired.

April 3, 2003
At a press meeting, PRC Minister of Public Health Zhang Wenkang expresses that it intends to consult with related medical experts in Taiwan, discuss and come up with solutions together on SARS prevention.

April 6, 2003
PRC Premier Wen Jiabao expresses that it intends to engage in cooperation in all forms of SARS control and prevention with the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and the Taiwan area.

April 8, 2003
PRC President Hu Jintao issues instructions to provide necessary assistance to the areas of Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan. Vice Premier Wu Yi will take charge of SARS-related affairs in Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan.

April 10, 2003
The MAC releases a two-point statement expressing its position on Hong Kong's promulgation of the proposed National Security legislation based on Article 23 of the HK Basic Law.

April 11, 2003
With regard to the intention of Mainland officials to assist Taiwan in SARS prevention, and repeatedly take advantage of the SARS issue to downgrade Taiwan as a province of China, the MAC issues a statement seriously reiterating that Taiwan is not a province of the People's Republic of China, and that it does not welcome Mainland officials taking advantage of the SARS epidemic in taking politically-motivated actions.

April 16, 2003
At a ceremony conferring on him an honorary doctorate degree in Japan's Waseda University, SEF Chairman Koo Chen-fu says in his speech entitled "Prospects in Japan-Taiwan and Cross-Strait Relations in the New Era" that the "one China" with respective interpretations achieved at the Hong Kong meeting between both sides of the Strait in 1992 should not be a "bilateral consensus" but an "accord."

April 21, 2003
The Bureau of Immigration, National Police Administration, Ministry of the Interior announces that since the SARS epidemic in the Mainland has turned serious, the stay of Mainland spouses whose permits have expired will be automatically extended from April 30 to May 31, in order to prevent cross-Strait travel from affecting the work of curbing SARS in Taiwan.

April 25, 2003
The MAC expresses that the epidemic situation in Hong Kong has not turned better and there were two SARS cases that entered into Taiwan, causing the epidemic in Taiwan to worsen. The Government decides to suspend the issuance of "landing visa" to Hong Kong residents for one month.

April 26, 2003
On the occasion of the 10th anniversary of the "Koo-Wang Talks," prepared activities are cancelled due to the serious epidemic of SARS in Beijing. Chen Yunlin, Director of the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office; Wang Daohan, ARATS Chairman; and Tang Jiaxuan, Councilor, release memorial articles respectively.

April 26, 2003
In commemoration of the 10th anniversary of the Koo-Wang talks, the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office Director Chen Yunlin issues an article on "the Active Promotion of Cross-Strait Dialogue and Negotiations in order to Open up a New era in the Development of Cross-Strait Relations," expressing that only when Taiwan authorities clearly acknowledge the 1992 Consensus will it authorize the ARATS to resume negotiations, dialogue, and normal exchanges with Taiwan's SEF.

April 26, 2003
In commemoration of the 10th anniversary of the Koo-Wang talks, PRC Councilor Tang Jiaxuan reiterates in his article on "Compatriots on Both Sides of the Strait Unite to Promote Together the Great Revival of the Chinese Race" that the "Three-Links" are an economic issue and should be negotiated on a fair basis between civilian organizations of both sides of the Strait. The negotiations may not involve the political significance of the "one China," but the "Three-Links" should not be referred to as a "state-to-state" affair.

April 26, 2003
In commemoration of the 10th anniversary of the Koo-Wang talks, ARATS Chairman Wang Daohan states three opinions in his article on the "Cross-Strait Dialogue and Negotiations Is the Only Way to Peacefully Solve the Issues," and reiterates that under the foundation of the principle of "one China," the Mainland is willing to engage in negotiations in pragmatic fashion wherein both sides will be on an equal footing, and to properly deal with the issues that concern the Taiwan side.

April 28, 2003
The chiefs of the Taiwan Affairs Office and the ARATS call on both sides of the Strait to reinforce cooperation in SARS prevention.

April 29, 2003
On the occasion of the 10th anniversary of the Koo-Wang talks, MAC Chairperson Tsai Ing-wen issues a written statement pointing out that both sides of the Strait, now facing a serious challenge of the SARS epidemic, should establish a mechanism for updating each other of the SARS epidemic as early as possible and should cooperate in the research of disease prevention, which are the most pressing tasks, to guarantee the lives and material possessions of the people on both sides of the Strait.

April 29, 2003
In a written statement with a theme on the "resumption of negotiations as the way to a win-win situation," issued during the celebration to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the Koo-Wang, Singapore talks, SEF Chairman Dr. Koo Chen-fu emphasizes that although the stances of both sides are different, there is a need for continued dialogue "amidst tolerance for different opinions" precisely because there are differences.

April 29, 2003
In order to prevent the further spread of SARS, the SEF cancels the activities to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the Koo-Wang talks. Chairman Koo Chen-fu and MAC Chairperson Tsai Ing-wen issue written statements instead to convey their messages.

April 29, 2003
The Spokesperson for the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office expresses that due to the SARS epidemic in some areas in the Mainland and in Taiwan, and in order to guarantee the health of the people on both sides of the Strait, the officials of agencies responsible for exchanges with Taiwan have decided to temporarily suspend the review of recent delegations to Taiwan and the trip of certain delegations to Taiwan.

April 30, 2003
In order to prevent passengers from area's with a concentration of SARS cases from affecting, the SARS prevention work in Taiwan by entering Taiwan through Macao, the MAC announces the implementation of "the Procedural Measures for the Entry of Taiwan nationals, Macao Residents, and Other Foreign Nationals into Taiwan via Macao."

May 5, 2003
In order to prevent illegal contact between peoples from of the Taiwan area and the Mainland area which will causefrom causing a loophole in the effortTaiwan's efforts to contain curb SARS epidemic, the Executive Yuan announces the implementation keypoints in the reinforcement of the investigation and arrest of smugglers and stowaways, called the Special Project on the containment of SARS"Disease-free Program". The implementation period is temporarily set until the end of June.

May 6, 2003
Wu Yi, Mainland PRC Vice Premier and Public Health Minister of Health and the person in charge of the Mainland's SARS Prevention Team, says that as part of China, Taiwan lacks the conditionshas no qualification to join the World Health Organization, which only accepts sovereign nations as members.

May 8, 2003
Zhang Qiyue, the Spokesperson for the Mainland's PRC Foreign Affairs Ministry, states the Mainland's firm opposition against to Taiwan's application for observer status at the World Health Assembly.

May 15, 2003
Zhang Qiyue, the Spokesperson for the Mainland's PRC Foreign Affairs Ministry, reiterates at a press conference that as a province of China, Taiwan is neither qualified to join the World Health Organization (WHO) nor to participate in the World Health Assembly (WHA) in an observer capacity.

May 17, 2003
Due to the spread of the SARS, the Executive Yuan announces the temporary suspension of passenger travel and goods cargo transport by sea between Kinmen and the Mainland. Other operations that will be maintained, include including applications of personnel and goods cargo for entry and exit; as well as the regulations on governing the transport of goods via the offshore islands will also remain effective. The length of the temporary suspension will be discussed at the appropriate time depending on the SARS situation.

May 19, 2003
After obtaining information regarding the failure of Taiwan's attempt to participate in the World Health Assembly, Zhang Qiyue, the Spokesperson for the Mainland'sPRC Foreign Affairs Ministry, immediately releases a statement pointing out that any plot to create "two Chinas" or "one China and one Taiwan" in the international arena is doomed to fail. futile.

May 20, 2003
After the Mainland boycotted Taiwan's application to become an observer at the World Health Assembly, President Chen Shui-bian states at a meeting of the Central Standing Committee of the Democratic Progressive Party that agencies concerned, including the ruling and opposition parties and all sectors in society, will be invited to discuss and study the implementation ofhow to push ahead with a public referendum on "Taiwan's participation at in the World Health Organization," in order to enable the whole world to hear the voice of Taiwan, and to show them the consensus and determination of the 23 million Taiwanese people.

May 23, 2003
The Mainland's ARATS sends a fax message to the SEF stating that the Mainland intends to donate medical facilities such as ambulances to Taiwan, and wishes to send experts and medical personnel with rich clinical experience to Taiwan to exchange knowledge in of disease prevention, to study treatment procedures, and to join in the work of disease prevention in Taiwan.

May 25, 2003
The MAC calls again onurges the Mainland again that, to stop avoid further hurting the feelings of the Taiwanese people, by the Mainland should not obstructing Taiwan's participation at in the World Health Organization or Taiwan's cooperation and exchange activities with other countries and international organizations, in orderso as to benefit cross-Strait relations.

May 25, 2003
With regard to the Mainland ARATS's letter stating intention to donate to Taiwan medical resources for the prevention of SARS, the SEF politely refuses through a formal letter explaining that the resources in Taiwan are "sufficient." The SEF also requests urges the ARATS to positively regard Taiwan's need to participate in the World Health Organization.

May 28, 2003
Li Weiyi, Spokesperson for the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office, points out at a press conference that in order to guarantee the smooth implementation of the chartered flights for the transport of goods across the Strait, it is suggested that the civilian organizations of the aviation industry or the civilian airline companies of both sides of the Strait discuss matterscommunicate issues pertaining to the said cross-Strait chartered flights for the transport of goods across the Strait and reach a consensus among themselves.

June 1, 2003
In a meeting at the G8 Summit in France, Mainland PRC President Hu Jintao and US President George Bush state that the Taiwan Issue issue has all along been the most important and most sensitive core issue in Sino-US relations. Remaining firm in its guiding principles of "peaceful reunification and one country, two systems," the Chinese Government is willing to exert its best effort to fight for the materialization of cross-Strait reunification through peaceful means.

June 12, 2003
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) issues a position paper released about by MOFA on the addition of the word TAIWAN on the cover of passports , and points out that the inability of immigration authorities of other countries and airline companies to properly distinguish between passports of the Republic of China and those of the Mainland has caused inconvenience to Taiwanese travellers abroad. In accordance with the MOFA's function to provideWith a view to providing convenience to Taiwanese nationals and for practical reasons, itthe MOFA has been decided that the word TAIWAN be added under the national seal emblem on the cover of Taiwan ROC passports. The new passports will be released issued on September 1.

June 17, 2003
Liu Jianchao, the Spokesperson for the Mainland's PRC Foreign Affairs Ministry, says that the plan of Taiwan authorities to add the word "Taiwan" on the "passports" issued by them is not only an extension of their gradual separatist movement for Taiwanese independence, but is also another serious action that harms bilateral relations, which should arouse a heightened vigilance among the entire Chinese people.

June 19, 2003
MAC Chairperson Tsai Ing-wen states that due to the easing of the SARS situation in the country and in consideration of the public opinion in the areas of Kinmen and Matsu, and since the relatively low risks of the spread of the disease are lowervia in the transport of goods, in coordination withas well as the overall disease prevention policy, it has been decided that the goods transport portion of the "miniMini-threeThree-linksLinks" be partially resumed immediately as of today after the recommendation has been submitted toapproved by the Executive Yuan for approval.

June 19, 2003
Zhang Mingqing, the Spokesperson for the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office, says that with the gradual ease easing of the SARS epidemic situation on both sides of the Strait, it is hoped that cross-Strait exchanges will return to normal as soon as possible. The Mainland side will take corresponding measures depending on the actions to be taken by the Taiwan side.

June 20, 2003
The Singapore Straits Times points out that Mainland's Central Leading Group for Taiwan Affairs has met for the first time. In that meeting, Hu Jintao mentions the three priority works concerning Taiwan, i.e., putting a stop to US intervention in cross-Strait affairs, reinforcement ofenhancing cross-Strait exchanges, and the reinforcement ofstrengthening military preparations preparedness to counteract unexpected incidents.

June 24, 2003
Wu Yi, Mainland PRC Vice Premier and Public Health Minister of Health, states during a meeting with a World Health Organization official that the Mainland has always been concerned of about the SARS situation in Taiwan and that communication channels with Taiwan are open. The Mainland will henceforth remain active in promoting health cooperation between both sides of the Strait. However, we firmly disapprove of using technical matters for political purposes.

June 25, 2003
President Chen Shui-bian states at a lunch meeting with owners of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that a public referendum on unification or vs. independence will not be implemented.

June 25, 2003
The MAC expresses feels regret over at the Mainland's blatant open opposition against to Taiwan's implementation move to hold of a public referendum, emphasizing that Taiwan's policy in exertingof dedicating its efforts to maintain the stability of cross-Strait relations remains unhas not changed and that Taiwan will not break itskeep its promise on the "Four Nos plus OneFour Nos Plus One" promisepolicy.

June 25, 2003
Li Weiyi, Spokesperson for the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office, reiterates at a regular press conference that Taiwan authorities are conniving with a minority group of Taiwanese independence advocates by intending to hold the so-called "public referendum" in order to engage in separatist activities, destroy the peace across the Taiwan Strait, and create tension in cross-Strait relations. This is a violation against the basic interests of the entire Chinese people, including those of the Taiwanese compatriots. The Mainland is firmly opposed against to this.

June 30, 2003
The MAC's Report on its Situation Study and Analysis of the Trends released on the 6th Anniversary of the Turnover of Hong Kong points out that since the turnover of Hong Kong, although political operations can be considered stable, there remain exist certain anxieties worries over the prospects of journalistic freedom of the press and judicial independence in Hong Kong.

July 1, 2003
With regard to Hong Kong's future restrictions on the action and speech of Hong Kong residents and foreign nationals proceeding to Hong Kong in the form of a "National Security Legislation(Legislative Provisions) Bill," the MAC especially calls on the Hong Kong Government to put place importance in on maintaining and gradually developing all kinds of exchanges and interaction between Taiwan and Hong Kong.

July 2, 2003
MAC Chairperson Tsai Ing-wen points out at an Executive Yuan session that Hong Kong's legislation of the article onthe "National Security (Legislative Provisions) Bill" is a very serious matter, which has not only attracted the attention of the international community, but has also caused the probable possible regression of Taiwan-Hong Kong relations.

July 2, 2003
SEF Deputy Secretary-General Jan Jyh-horng calls on the Mainland to step up its efforts to improve its peace and order situation and to negotiate as soon as possible with Taiwan on how to guarantee the lives and material possessions of Taiwanese businessmen in the Mainland. Otherwise, the safety of the lives of the Taiwanese businessmen will continue to be threatened, which will be disadvantageous to the development of cross-Strait trade and economic relations.

July 3, 2003
In a special interview with Japan's Mainichi Shimbun in Taipei, with regard to the issue on cross-Strait direct transportation links, President Chen Shui-bian states that this issue involves jurisdiction and security problems. The management of immigration and quarantine matters cannot be entrusted to the civilian sector. Government intervention is necessary. If So long as the Mainland insists persists in the "principle of one ChinaOne China" Principle," then we Taiwan cannot approve the direct transportation links.

July 4, 2003
Speaking at the joint opening ceremony of the Executive Yuan's Seminars on National Development Studies and on Women Leaders' Development, President Chen Shui-bian reiterates that if there were to be changes in Taiwan's present situationstatus quo, then the choices and decisions should be made by the people through a popular votepublic referendum. Otherwise, no country, government, political party, or individual can change Taiwan's destiny, its future, or its present status as an independent entityindependent status quo. The President also reiterates that as long as the Mainland is willing to abandon the use of force against Taiwan during his term, he guarantees that the "Four Nos Plus OneFour Nos plus One" policy will remain unchanged.

July 7, 2003
In a meeting with a visiting delegation composed of members of Taiwan's "Chinese Professors' Association," Chen Yunlin, Director director of the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office, calls on the Taiwanese people to remain calm and refrain from creating a new crisis by changing the status quo.

July 8, 2003
The Government Information Office officially relaxes the importation of Mainland books written in simplified characters, and promulgates the "Permit Guidelines Regulations for the Sale of Mainland Publications in Taiwan."

July 10, 2003
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs releases a formal statement pointing out that since the founding of the Republic of China in 1912, its sovereignty has never been interrupted. The People's Republic of China has never had dominion jurisdiction over the Taiwan area since its establishment in 1949. It is an undisputable fact that there are two distinct political entities having jurisdiction respectively over their own territory on both sides of the Taiwan Strait. Taiwan is definitely not a part of the People's Republic of China.

July 14, 2003
Considering that the general SARS situation in Taiwan and abroad has eased, and in order to gradually resume normal trade and economic and as well as personnel exchanges between Taiwan and Hong Kong, the Offshore Control Section Division of the Executive Yuan states that the issuance of the "fourteen-day temporary stay (landing visa)" for Hong Kong residents coming to Taiwan is going to be resumed effective immediatelyas of today.

July 16, 2003
The MAC announces that the passenger and goods cargo transport operations of the "Mmini-Tthree-lLinks" at Kinmen and Matsu are fully resumed effective immediatelyas of today.

July 16, 2003
During a meeting in Beijing with a visiting delegation composed of members of Taiwan's industrial union sector, Chen Yunlin, Director director of the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office, states that the Mainland will continue to maintain protect the rights of Taiwan compatriots in the Mainland, to enhance and develop cross-Strait relations, and to promote cross-Strait personnel exchanges, as well as economic and cultural exchanges, in order to promote the materialization of the cross-Strait "three Three-Llinks" as soon as possible.

July 17, 2003
The MAC states that restrictions against on activities concerned with related to cross-Strait exchanges, such as military people, government employees, and school teachers going to the Mainland to visit relatives and sick family members; Mainland people who reside overseas coming to Taiwan for professional exchanges, and Mainland people belonging to category 2 and category 3 coming to Taiwan for sightseeing activities, are lifted effective immediatelyas of today. Applications may be submitted according to related regulations of the "Permit Guidelines Regulations Governing the Entry of the for Allowing People from of the Taiwan Area to Enter the Mainland Area."

July 17, 2003
In a special interview with the Far Eastern Economic Review, President Chen Shui-bian states that a dialogue and negotiation on cross-Strait issues should be made under the conditions that Taiwan will not be downgraded, will not be treated as a local government, and will not be marginalized. It would be impossible for the cross-Strait direct transportation links to be materialized under the "one China" principle. It is clearly a sign of surrender to implement the "three lThree-Links" under the "one China" principle. The Government cannot sacrifice the sovereignty, dignity, security, and overall interests of the country for the sake of a few people.

July 17, 2003
In an interview with the Asian Wall Street Journal, President Chen Shui-bian emphasizes that we cannot implement direct transportation links for the sake of implementing it, and further reiterates that as an "independent and sovereign" country", Taiwan will never accept the Mainland's so-called "one China" principle just to be able to materialize the direct transportation links.

July 17, 2003
The SEF writes the ARATS concerning the five Taiwanese fishing vessels forcefully detained by the Mainland Public Security personnel in Shenao Port on Nanao Island in Guangdong Province, and requests fordemands the protection of the rights of Taiwanese fishermen.

July 17, 2003
Tang Shubei, Director of the Center of the Relations Between Both Sides of the Straitshead of the Beijing-based Research Center for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait, points out in an address at the opening of the "Forum on Cross-Strait Relations" that the resumption of cross-Strait dialogue and negotiations should be conducted under the "One China" principle of One China, in order to achieve stability, improvementto improve, and development in cross-Strait relations.

July 17, 2003
In a special interview with the Phoenix Chinese Channel of Hong Kong, Wang Zaixi, Deputy deputy Director director of the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office, reiterates that the new leadership formed after the 16th Congress puts much importance on the Taiwan issue and is very concerned of about the Taiwanese people. The Mainland's Taiwan policy will maintain its continuity and consistency. At the same time, it will also make adjustments according to the trend of the times.

July 18, 2003
At the conclusion of the "Forum on Cross-Strait Relations," Wang Zaixi, Deputy deputy Director director of the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office, mentions puts forth concerete recommendationsproposals for the development of cross-Strait relations, namely, 1) the emphasis onhighlighting trade and economic exchanges and cooperation; 2) the implementation ofimplementing the direct "three Three-Llinks" as soon as possible; and 3) the resumption ofresuming cross-Strait dialogue as soon as possible.

July 25, 2003
In a meeting with Mr. Christopher DeMuth, president of the American Enterprise Institute for Public Policy Research, and Mr. James Lilley, director of Asian studies a senior researcher at the American Enterprise Institute, President Chen Shui-bian comments on the development of cross-Strait relations. He states that there has clearly been no breakthrough in cross-Strait relations until now, which has been entirely impeded by the Mainland's "one China" principle. of "one China." It is impossible for Taiwan to accept the said so-called principle of "one China."

July 28, 2003
The MAC approves the "Institutions Permitted to Invite Professionals from the Mainland Area to Come to Taiwan to Engage in Their Expertise Professional Activities and the List of Requirements for Such Applications," allowing relaxing the entry to Taiwan by the industrial and technological professionals from the Mainland area to come to Taiwan. .

July 30, 2003
The US Department of Defense submits the "Annual Report of on the Military Power of the People's Republic of China" to Congress, which is for the first time mentions the Mainland's deployment of missiles aimed at Taiwan in a formal report. The report also points out that the number of short-range missiles deployed by the Mainland has reached around 450.

July 31, 2003
The Spokesperson for the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office states that they have a clear stance and a definite baseline with regard to the so-called public referendum being advocated by certain people in Taiwan. If a public referendum is going to be exploited for engaging in separatist activities and destroying the peace across the Taiwan Strait, this would constitute a violation againstrun counter to the basic interests of the entire Chinese people, including those of Taiwanese compatriots. The Mainland is firmly opposed against to this.

July 31, 2003
During a toast at the celebration of the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People's Liberation Army, Cao Gangchuan, Deputy Commissionervice-chairman of the Mainland's CPC Central Military Commission and Minister of National Defence, reiterates the Mainland's determination in its guiding principles on Taiwan, . He stresses that it the PLA has the determination and the capability to defend its the PRC's sovereignty and the integrity of its territory, and that it will never allow any force to separate Taiwan from the Mainland in any way.

August 7, 2003
In a meeting with the delegation composed of Taiwan's media executives, Tang Jiaxuan, Councillor of the PRC's State Council, emphasizes that the Mainland side will not sit by and watch Taiwan's position of "one country on either side." If Taiwan wishes to develop this policy of "one country on each side" through a public referendum, it will absolutely not concede.

August 13-14, 2003
At a gathering with media executives during the "Journey of Witnessing the Progress of Taiwan," President Chen Shui-bian proposes for the first time the "three phases of the direct cross-Strait transportation links," which include the preparation phase, the negotiations phase, and the realization phase. He also reiterates the Government's attitude of "maintaining a firm stance while proceeding in a pragmatic manner" in dealing with cross-Strait affairs.

August 15, 2003
The Executive Yuan announces the Assessment of the Impact of Direct Cross-Strait Transportation. At the press conference on the "Executive Yuan's Assessment on the Direct Cross-Strait Transportation", MAC Chairperson Tsai Ing-wen says that the argument on the sovereignty by each side of the Strait cannot be solved within the short term. The "direct transportation links" is what needs to be implemented in the short- and middle-terms. Both governments have the duty to find a feasible negotiations model, wherein under the premise that Taiwan maintains its sovereignty, the Taiwan side will incorporate a degree of flexibility in the negotiations and the probable participation of civilian entities. If the Mainland is ready, then both sides can commence the talks on the direct transportation links right away.

August 16, 2003
Regarding the "one objective, three phases" timetable proposed by President Chen Shui-bian on the direct cross-Strait transportation links and regarding the "Assessment of the Impact of Direct Cross-Strait Transportation" announced by the Executive Yuan, Zhang Mingqing, Spokesperson of the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office, states that the Mainland side has long been prepared for the direct transportation links, and that both sides of the Strait can start negotiations anytime. However, the Taiwan authorities should be sincere.

August 19, 2003
Concerning the "Assessment of the Impact of Direct Cross-Strait Transportation ," Wang Zaixi, Deputy Director of the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office, believes that Taiwan lacks sincerity concerning the cross-Strait "Three- Links." He reiterates that the cross-Strait civilian entities should commence negotiations on the "Three-Links" as soon as possible, and achieve a simple and feasible agreement.

August 26, 2003
The SEF writes the ARATS to provide details on the drowning incident of 22 Mainland female stowaways trying to enter Taiwan. Six of them died, and four of them were missing. The ARATS has been requested to notify their family members in the Mainland.

August 26, 2003
At the 12th Symposium on Cross-Strait Relations, Wang Zaixi, Deputy Director of the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office, states that political differences should not be made an obstacle and an excuse to reject the "Three- Links." The negotiations on the "Three-Links" are not political negotiations, and can not involve the political implication of the "one China."

August 27, 2003
In a meeting with a group of U.S. scholars and experts on Cross-Strait issues, President Chen Shui-bian expresses his views on the issues including Taiwan's national sovereignty, public referendum, and the direct cross-Strait transportation links. He emphasizes that before both sides commence talks, the measures for cross-Strait freight facilitation will be actively promoted, to serve as the preparatory work for the negotiations on the direct cross-Strait transport links.

August 27, 2003
At an Executive Yuan session, Premier Yu Shyi-kun calls on the Mainland again not to stage any boycott for whatever political reasons and to start negotiations with Taiwan as soon as possible on keeping a lookout for stowaways, in fighting against crime at sea, and in repatriating Mainland stowaways.

August 27, 2003
The SEF writes the ARATS to provide the list of eight stowaways who survived the drowning incident, and to request the ARATS to relay the information to their family members in the Mainland.

August 29, 2003
The ARATS writes the SEF requesting for the proper arrangements for and treatment of the survivors, and for the speedy investigation and punishment of the criminals. The SEF is also being requested to provide the list of people who died, any information on the investigations, and any hints for the solution of the case. The SEF sends related information concerning the six stowaways who died during the incident to the ARATS, and requests assistance for the investigation of their identities and for the notification of their family members. The SEF also expresses that it will render the necessary assistance to enable the family members to come to Taiwan to handle the funeral matters.

September 1, 2003
The SEF writes the ARATS to request its assistance in coordinating with the agencies concerned to provide background information concerning the parties involved in the smuggling of the Mainland stowaways, to enable both sides of the Strait to fight against crime together.

September 2, 2003
With regard to the addition of the word "Taiwan" on the new version of ROC passports, the MAC issues a statement pointing out that there has been for a long time a set of established operational procedures and required documents in processing visa applications and the entry procedures for peoples of Taiwan and the Mainland as well as Taiwanese and Hong Kong citizens into either side of the Strait. The new version of passports will not at all affect civilian exchanges between Taiwan and Hong Kong.

September 2, 2003
In a press conference, Kong Quan, Spokesperson of the PRC's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, declares that the addition of "Taiwan" on the cover of a new version of passports is a display of gradual Taiwan independence. It has, at the same time, destroyed cross-Strait relations. The Mainland is firmly opposed to this.

September 7, 2003
On the demonstration for rectification of Taiwan's official name, the Spokesperson of PRC State Council's Taiwan Affairs Office issues a statement declaring that this is a step in the process of "creeping Taiwanese independence," and that this is contrary to the mainstream public opinion in Taiwan.

September 8, 2003
In a letter to the ARATS, the SEF asks the ARATS to relay the latest information concerning the six Mainland victims of the drowning incident to the Mainland's relevant agencies and officials for speedy identification, in order to notify the victims, family members to handle funeral matters.

September 8, 2003
The ARATS responds to the SEF expressing its hope for the SEF to expeditiously assist the family members of the victims in proceeding to Taiwan to handle funeral matters. The Mainland side has confirmed the identity of four of the victims.

September 10, 2003
The MAC promulgates the measures for Cross-Strait Freight Facilitation.

September 10, 2003
At the Moscow Conference of the "Global Effort of Overseas Chinese to Promote the Peaceful Unification of China," Zhang Mingqing, Assistant of the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office, issues a statement saying that no matter which political party or individual is in power in Taiwan, it is hoped that they will all abide by the "one China" principle, and that the cross-Strait direct "Three-Links" will be implemented through cross-Strait dialogue and negotiation on the basis of "one China."

September 10, 2003
At the opening ceremony of the Beijing-Taipei Scientific and Technical Forum, Li Bingcai, Deputy Director of the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office, is willing to listen extensively to the views and recommendations of the people from Taiwan's scientific, technological, and industrial sectors on such issues as the cross-Strait mechanism for economic cooperation, so as to propel cross-Strait economic and scientific and technological cooperation toward higher and newer standards.

September 11, 2003
The ARATS writes to the SEF providing information about the four Taiwanese citizens allegedly involved in the drowning incident and who have been arrested in the Mainland, and expresses its hope for the Taiwan side to provide information about the five Mainland people allegedly involved and arrested in Taiwan, and information about their participation in the planning and the implementation of the crime and the specific details about the illegal entry into Taiwan by the rescued 20 Mainland female stowaways.

September 11, 2003
ARATS officials express that the Mainland side has always consistently put much emphasis on the preservation of the proper rights and interests of the people on both sides of the Strait, and firmly fought against all criminal activities impairing the rights and interests of people on both sides of the Strait.

September 11, 2003
Zhou Mingwei, Deputy Director of the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office, states that there is a certain obstacle in the current state of cross-Strait relations, and that Taiwan's passive restriction to refuse the permanent stationing of media journalists from one side of the Strait to the other side has caused a difficult situation. We intend to probe into the possibility of negotiations between private organizations or between the media sectors or on a special case basis, to promote the permanent stationing of cross-Strait media journalists on the other side of the Strait.

September 12, 2003
The SEF responds to the ARATS requesting for the relay of information to the family members of the victims about the required documents for the processing of their entry papers to Taiwan, and also inviting an ARATS official to accompany and assist the family members during their trip to Taiwan. The four alleged suspects arrested in Taiwan are Taiwanese citizens, contrary to the statement of the Mainland that they are from the Mainland. The SEF also requests the ARATS for assistance in providing information about the investigation of the alleged suspects arrested in the Mainland, to enable both sides of the Strait to fight against crime together.

September 12, 2003
The ARATS writes the SEF to inform that a total of seven family members of four of the victims are taking the flight to Taiwan on September 15 and 16 to handle funeral matters, and to request for SEF personnel to assist them during their stopover in Hong Kong and in handling related matters.

September 14, 2003
Coast Guard Administration officer Chiang Shao-nan was abducted by Mainland fishermen fishing illegally in Taiwan's territorial waters. The SEF writes the ARATS to request assistance in ensuring the personal safety of Chiang, and to arrange for the early repatriation of Chiang and to return his arms, as well as to investigate the case and punish the offenders.

September 15, 2003
Coast Guard Administration officer Chiang Shao-nan was abducted by Mainland fishermen to Fuzhou. After coordination between the SEF and the ARATS, the SEF confirms that Chiang will be repatriated to Matsu via the "Mini-Three-Links" route. SEF Deputy-Secretary General Jan Jyr-horng states that aside from demanding for the return of the person, the Taiwan side has also requested that the Mainland return the firearms and ammunition at the same time, as well as punish the abductors.

September 15, 2003
With regard to the MAC's promulgation of the "Measures for the Cross-Strait Feight Facilitation," Tang Jiaxuan, Councillor in charge of Taiwan Affairs at the Mainland's State Council, states that the freight facilitation across the Strait is part of cross-Strait economic affairs and the negotiations should therefore be handed over to the private sector. The Mainland's stance is very clear and definite, which insists that the measures should conform to the principles of mutual benefit and reciprocity.

September 15, 2003
Pu Zhaozhou, Chief official of the PRC's Civil Aviation Association makes an unprecedented official response to the measures for the Cross-Strait freight facilitation. Pu reiterates that regular flights and non-regular chartered flights for cargo transportation alike should be handled based on the principle that they must be "domestic affairs, direct and bidirectional, and mutually beneficial and reciprocal." He also states the Mainland's consistent position that the direct cross-Strait transportation links is economic affairs and should not be affected by political factors.

September 16, 2003
In an address at this year's Mid-Autumn gathering and forum of responsible persons of the Taiwanese Businessmen's Associations in the Mainland, President Chen Shui-bian openly calls on the Mainland side to prioritize the rights and interests and the competitiveness of the Taiwanese businessmen to allow the smooth operations of the indirect chartered cargo flights so as to create favorable conditions for the future direct cross-Strait transportation links.

September 17, 2003
An experimental manned space flight of the Mainland's Shenzhou-5 spacecraft will be conducted within the year. Mainland agricultural experts say that the spacecraft can take Taiwanese crops seeds into space for scientific experiments.

September 19, 2003
The Mnistry of Transportation and Communications promulgates the "Operational Procedures for Taiwanese Airline Companies to Apply to Operate Indirect Chartered Cargo Flights to the Mainland."

September 22, 2003
The ARATS writes the SEF to notify that the family members of four of the victims have returned safely in the Mainland and to express gratitude over the assistance rendered by the SEF and other agencies concerned to the family members in handling the funeral matters of the victims.

September 23, 2003
The SEF writes the ARATS to request assistance in providing information about the investigation about the people allegedly involved in the case and arrested by the Mainland authorities, to enable both sides of the Strait to fight against crime together.

September 23, 2003
At the 5th joint meeting of the Board of Directors and Supervisors of the SEF, Chairperson Koo Chen-fu emphasizes in his address that although both sides of the Strait hold differing political positions, the frequent cross-Strait exchanges have become a trend. Both sides should maintain tolerance and understanding, as well as resume the normal channels of communication and reopen negotiations on a full scale as soon as possible. At the same time, they should pragmatically handle the problems arising from the exchanges, in order to establish cross-Strait harmony.

September 24, 2003
In response to the MAC's recent promulgation of the measures for the cross-Strait freight facilitation, Li Weiyi, Spokesperson for the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office, emphasizes at a press conference that the related matters on the direct cross-Strait transportation links shall be handled as bidirectional and mutually beneficial and reciprocal under the principle that it be considered internal domestic affairs. Pu Zhaozhou, Director for General Affairs of China Civil Aviation Association, also states at the press conference that without conducting any negotiations between civilian entities, Taiwan authorities unilaterally promulgated the "measures the cross-Strait freight facilitation," which we consider very anomalous, very improper, and unacceptable.

September 24, 2003
Li Weiyi, Spokesperson for the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office, points out that Taiwan authorities recently edited senior high school history textbooks categorizing modern Chinese history under world history. This is another step taken by the Taiwanese authorities in promoting "gradual Taiwanese independence" in the educational sector.

September 25, 2003
The Executive Yuan promulgated and implemented the measures for the cross-Strait freight facilitation a few days ago, which, effective immediately, allows Taiwanese airline companies to operate indirect chartered cargo flights across the Strait (ahead of their Mainland counterparts). These chartered cargo flights that are "unidirectional," "restricted," and "indirect" will start before both sides of the Strait commence negotiations on the direct transportation links and as long as they do not violate the policy framework of the cross-Strait air cargo transportation.

September 30, 2003
At a reception of the celebration of its 54th anniversary of the People's Republic, Premier, Wen Jiabao, issues a statement declaring that we should adhere to the principle of "one China" and firmly oppose any activity conducted by Taiwanese separatists to split up the motherland.

October 6, 2003
In an interview with the Washington Post, President Chen Shui-bian reiterates that "Taiwan will walk its own road, the road that is Taiwan's own," and that Taiwan should no longer be viewed as part of the Mainland. The so-called "one China" is actually "one country, two systems." The "one China with respective interpretations" or the "roof under one China" are all to downgrade, localize, and marginalize Taiwan.

October 8, 2003
In answering questions posed by reporters, the Spokesperson for the PRC State Council's Taiwan Affairs Office attacks President Chen Shui-bian's recent statements for advocating Taiwanese independence, such as denial of the "1992 Consensus" of the principle of "one China," advocacy of "one country on each side," and the "proposal for the writing of a new constitution."

October 9, 2003
The Legislative Yuan passes the amendment of the "Act Governing Relations Between Peoples of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area" in the third reading. The amendment originally contained 102 articles, of which 83 articles are amended. As a result, the Act totals up to 132 articles. The scope of amendment exceeds 80%.

October 9, 2003
The Legislative Yuan passes the amendment of the "Act Governing Relations Between Peoples of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area" after the third reading. The MAC issues a press release explaining that the biggest adjustment made in the amendment is in the establishment of a new order for long-term exchanges between the social, educational and cultural as well as the trade and economic sectors of both sides of the Strait, and further under the premise of guiding cross-Strait relations to gradually proceed toward normalization, comprehensive assessment and adjustment are made in such matters as cross-Strait negotiations, cross-Strait transportation links, personnel exchanges, trade and economic exchanges, and cultural and educational exchanges, in order to create a new legal mechanism that encapsulates "reasonable liberalization," "effective management," and "full implementation."

October 9, 2003
In an address at the "Assembly of Overseas Chinese and Ethnic Chinese Associations Around the World," Deputy Director Zhou Mingwei of the PRC's Taiwan Affairs Office states that although the present situation in Taiwan is very complicated and that peaceful unification is also facing a greater degree of difficulty, the basic structure and development trend of cross-Strait relations remain unchanged.

October 10, 2003
In his address at the 2003 National Day celebrations, President Chen Shui-bian states that there will always exist a "door to cooperation" and a "door to peace." The "door to cooperation" can open only if the "one China" and "one country, two systems" formulas are put aside. The "door to peace" can open only when China renounces its threat to resort to the use of force and halts its suppression against Taiwan internationally.

October 13, 2003
PRC releases its "Document of China's Policy on the European Union," emphasizing that the "one China" policy is an important element in the political foundation of Chinese-European relations, the stable development of which is affected by the proper handling of the Taiwan issue. The Mainland China also demands that the members of the European Union disallow Taiwanese political figures from proceeding to the European Union or any of its member states to engage in activities for any reason, and to avoid contact and communication of official nature with the Taiwanese authorities.

October 19, 2003
PRC President Hu Jintao meets with US President George Bush in the Thai capital city of Bangkok. Hu Jintao points out that the Mainland is firm in its basic guiding principles of "peaceful unification and 'one country, two systems,' " that it will try its very best to solve the Taiwan issue by peaceful means, and that it will never tolerate "Taiwan independence."

October 17, 2003
In his meeting with Therese Shaheen, Chairman and Managing Director of the American Institute in Taiwan, President Chen Shui-bian reiterates that as long as the Mainland doesn't attempt to use force against Taiwan, his assurance to keep his promise of the "four no's plus one" policy within his presidential term has remained unchanged. The implementation of a public referendum or the new constitution that will be jointly written by the Taiwanese people in 2006, will not contradict that promise made in his inaugural address.

October 21, 2003
The SEF writes the ARATS explaining that Chu An-hsiung is wanted for bribery and requesting for assistance in his arrest and repatriation. This is beneficial to the joint fight of both sides of the Strait against crime.

October 21, 2003
In a meeting with a Taiwanese trade and economic delegation, 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, points out that only the promotion of the implementation of the direct "Three-Links" as soon as possible conforms to the common expectations and basic interests of the peoples on both sides of the Strait, and reiterates that the Mainland side has always advocated not allowing political differences to influence and distract cross-Strait economic cooperation.

October 24, 2003
In an address at the Australian Parliament, PRC President Hu Jintao states that Taiwan is an inalienable part of the Mainland's territory. The realization of the complete unification of China as soon as possible is the common expectation and firm resolve of the entire Chinese people. The separatist activities engaged by the advocates for "Taiwan independence" is the greatest threat against peace across the Taiwan Strait. We are firmly against "Taiwan independence."

October 22, 2003
In an address at the General Chamber of Commence of ROC, President Chen Shui-bian expresses that the Government will still maintain a stable cross-Strait policy and create a framework for a stable cross-Strait interaction.

October 23, 2003
In her talk at the "Joint Conference of the R.O.C.-New Zealand and New Zealand-R.O.C. Business Councils," MAC Chairperson Tsai Ing-wen emphasizes that with regard to the direct cross-Strait transportation links, the Government will try its best to promote the preparatory work for the transition period, but there is no haste in negotiations; otherwise, it will lose its advantage.

October 24, 2003
The ARATS writes the Cross-Strait General Public Service Center regarding the reckless shooting by Taiwan's police officers at Mainland fishermen engaged in fish breeding because the incident has caused personal injury and material loss.

October 26, 2003
The Spokesperson for the PRC's Taiwan Affairs Office issues a statement in reaction to the demonstration staged in connection with the referendum and the writing of a new constitution pointing out that President Chen Shui-bian has claimed several times that the promise of the "four no's plus one" policy will remain unchanged. However, these are all browbeating words.

October 27, 2003
With regard to the direct criticism hurled at the Taiwan president by the Mainland authorities, the MAC issues a statement reiterating that, under the principle of parity, Taiwan's sincere intention to enhance cross-Strait relations remains consistent. As long as the Mainland authorities can have a little bit more pragmatism and trust and a little less resentment and politicking, there will be greater room for beneficial interaction in cross-Strait relations.

October 28, 2003
The Mainland's Xinhua News Agency reports that in a meeting with a delegation from Taiwan's United Daily News group, PRC State Council member Tang Jiaxuan expresses that the cross-Strait 'Three-Links' is an economic issue and should be pragmatically promoted under the spirit of direct links and two-way travel, in search of mutual benefit and win-win situation, and through negotiations on an equal basis.

October 29, 2003
The MAC issues a press release pointing out that the unreasonable criticism made by the Mainland authorities at every detail of President Chen Shui-bian's itinerary abroad is rude interference in the external relations of the Republic of China, and has once more harmed cross-Strait harmony. The MAC urges the Mainland authorities again to maintain an attitude of mutual respect and non-interference in each other's internal affairs, to prevent harming cross-Strait relations.

October 29, 2003
At a press conference, Zhao Mingqing, Spokesperson for the PRC's Taiwan Affairs Office, points out that it has never maintained any opposing stance toward the economic and cultural exchange activities of Taiwan with the civilian sector of other countries. However, it is against Taiwan's using the international venue in engaging in activities related to "one China and one Taiwan," which splits the motherland. Any inappropriate action of President Chen Shui-bian during his transit in the US will directly affect Sino-US relations and will also cause tense cross-Strait relations.

October 29, 2003
In a regular press conference of the PRC's Taiwan Affairs Office, Spokesperson Zhang Mingqing states that the major headline in October is the successful launching of the Shenzhou-5 spacecraft. This is a joint honor for the Chinese people on both sides of the Strait.

October 31, 2003
In an interview with the USA Today, President Chen Shui-bian points out that, "the ball that can break the stalemate in cross-Strait relations has always been in China's court." Taiwan is a sovereign and independent country that does not belong to the People's Republic of China. The Mainland unilaterally sets the frame of the "one China principle" and tries to forcefully impose it on Taiwan, thereby downgrading, localizing, and marginalizing Taiwan, which Taiwan cannot accept.

November 1, 2003
In an address on the occasion of his receiving the Human Rights Award in New York, President Chen Shui-bian points out that the insufficiency of Taiwan's constitutional framework is the rationale upon which he has proposed the concept of "hastening the birth of a new constitution for Taiwan." He further stresses that holding referendums should not bear any relevance to his "Four No's Plus One" pledge. Neither should important matters concerning the future of Taiwan, including its constitutional development and the realization of a "national sovereignty," be simplistically interpreted as a political debate over "unification vs. independence."

November 2, 2003
In a special interview with the media during his attendance at the activities held in commemoration of the 100th Anniversary of the Independence of Panama, President Chen Shui-bian stresses that the Republic of China is a sovereign country, and is absolutely not a part of any country. Therefore, the Republic of China rejects the "one country, two systems" formula.

November 5, 2003
After receiving a report about the murder of Ho Chin-sheng, a Taiwanese businessman in Guangdong Province in the Mainland, the SEF immediately renders assistance to the family members of the victim in processing the necessary documents to enable them to proceed to the Mainland to handle funeral matters. The SEF also writes the ARATS to contact the agencies concerned right away to go after the criminals and bring them to justice. In connection with this, the SEF urges the Mainland authorities once again with regard to the urgent message sent on the same day to the ARATS seeking assistance in the expeditious coordination with the agencies concerned to go after the criminals and bring them to justice. The Mainland authorities should pay attention to the peace and order issue in order to guarantee the personal safety of the Taiwanese businessmen in the Mainland.

November 6, 2003
The Mainland's Xinhua News Agency releases a commentary on "President Chen Shui-bian's Provocative Actions by Proposing Taiwan Independence," pointing out that "Taiwan leader Chen Shui-bian" has been peddling his opinions on "one country on each side" and his intention of "holding a referendum" and "writing a constitution" along his journey to Panama and during his stopover in the United States, basically refuting his own "Four No's Plus One" promise, which is a means of carrying out Taiwan independence.

November 7, 2003
The Mainland's Xinhua News Agency releases a commentary "exposing Chen Shui-bian's political fraud," severely attacking President Chen Shui-bian's real intention of carrying out Taiwanese independence under the guise of a public referendum.

November 12, 2003
At a meeting with a delegation from the Brookings Institution, President Chen Shui-bian expresses his hope that Taiwan will hold a referendum on a new constitution on the December 10 World Human Rights Day in 2006. He further articulates his description of the cross-Strait relationship as "one country on each side, " as well as his advocacy of referendums and a new constitution is an integral part of Taiwan's democratic and constitutional reforms and has nothing to do with his "Four No's Plus One" pledge. Neither should these appeals be simplistically interpreted as a political debate over "unification vs. independence."

November 12, 2003
With regard to the irrational criticism made by the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office at its regular press conference repeatedly distorting President Chen Shui-bian's visit abroad and his stopover in the US, the MAC reiterates that the Mainland's action is flaring up the emotions of both sides of the Strait and has hurt the feelings of the Taiwanese people. Aside from expressing its utmost regret over the matter, the MAC also urges the Mainland authorities to immediately put a stop to this wrongful action.

November 12, 2003
At a regular press conference, Spokesperson for the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office Li Weiyi points out that the Mainland is willing to take measures to actively assist in implementing the chartered flights for the Taiwanese businessmen returning home during the Lunar New Year Holidays. However, he also expresses firm opposition to the proposed negotiations on the direct transportation and the "Three-Links" under the framework of "one country on each side."

November 12, 2003
At a regular press conference, Spokesperson for the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office Li Weiyi expresses discontent with the statements of President Chen Shui-bian during his stopover in the US, pointing out that President Chen Shui-bian is deliberately challenging the "one China principle" and engaging in separatist activities through holding a referendum. This is an evidence that the so-called "Four No's Plus One" pledge is a blatant lie to the people of the world.

November 13, 2003
The Mainland's Xinhua News Agency publishes an article signed "Xiayan" stating that "Chen Shui-bian has gone on to a dangerous brink in his advocacy of Taiwan independence and separatism." The article points out that President Chen Shui-bian went to the US and Panama to engage in "a Journey of Happiness and Joy," clearly announcing his intention to promote the holding of a referendum and the writing of a new constitution, which are pushing cross-Strait relations further to a dangerous situation.

November 14, 2003
Pu Zhaozhou, Director of the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC)'s Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office, points out in a press release that the Mainland hopes the Taiwan side will take practical measures to abide by the principles of "direct and two-way interaction; mutual benefit and reciprocity" and carry out the real significance of the direct chartered flights during the Lunar New Year Holidays.

November 17, 2003
With regard to the unreasonable criticism made by the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office on the "referendum legislation" being promoted by the Taiwan Government, the MAC urges the Mainland authorities to refrain from interfering with Taiwan's internal affairs and reiterates that the Mainland's unscrupulous criticism of Taiwan's head of state is not only useless in properly understanding Taiwan's public opinion and feelings, but is also of no help to the creation of cross-Strait harmony and stability.

November 17, 2003
The Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office releases, under the name of the "Responsible Person of the State Council's Taiwan Affairs Office," a statement on "President Chen Shui-bian's administration's passing of the 'referendum law' in carrying out 'Taiwan independence' separatist movement," warning that "the administration of President Chen Shui-bian" should rein in on the edge of the precipice and immediately stop using to the "legislation of a referendum" to carry out the evil of disintegrating the country.

November 18, 2003
The SEF expresses its deep regrets over the cancellation of the permit of the delegation composed of members of the Association of Chinese Notaries to visit Taiwan and the order for them to depart Taiwan on the same day by the Bureau of Immigration, Ministry of the Interior, due to the failure of the delegation to follow the agreed itinerary during their stay in Taiwan to engage in a forum and exchange views with the SEF on related issues about document notarization matters.

November 18, 2003
Mainland Taiwan Affairs Office Deputy Director Wang Zaixi points out at the Symposium on Cross-Strait Relations that "the implementation of a referendum and the writing of a constitution are dangerous acts" and that "Taiwan independence is a base line." If Taiwan's authority publicly provoke the Mainland and the "one China principle," then it is feared that the use of force is unavoidable.

November 18, 2003
In a special interview with the Xinhua News Agency, Mainland ARATS Chairman Wang Daohan criticizes President Chen Shui-bian's promotion of the legislation of a referendum is carrying out "Taiwan independence" under the pretext of democracy, which is pushing cross-Strait relations and the situation across the Taiwan Strait into a dangerous brink.

November 18, 2003
In a speech presented at the "Symposium on Cross-Strait Relations," Director Luo Yuan of the Mainland's Academy of Military Sciences expresses that senior military officials of the People's Liberation Army have seriously declared several times that "the time when Taiwan announces independence is the moment when it declares war." He further emphasizes that "once Taiwan proceeds toward the separatist road of no return, the People's Liberation Army will take drastic measures to safeguard the integrity of the sovereignty and territory of the motherland."

November 20, 2003
During a meeting with the 2003 commissioners of the Overseas Chinese Affairs Commission, President Chen Shui-bian reiterates Taiwan should remain firm in the three democratic principles of "the expression of public opinion from bottom-up; no preconditions; and the people making a decision through referend" so as to keep on deepening the roots of democracy in Taiwan. He emphasizes once again that we absolutely cannot accept the Mainland's simplified interpretation of the timetable and objectives of our democratic system an issue of "unification vs. independence."

November 20, 2003
In an address at the Fourth Industrial Elite Award Commendation Ceremony, President Chen Shui-bian reiterates that the door to cross-Strait peace and goodwill must be jointly opened up by the peoples on both sides of the Strait, and that the dignity and welfare of the Taiwan people shall never be sacrificed in pursuit of further cross-Strait exchanges.

November 21, 2003
Premier Yu Shyi-kun officially announces that the chartered flights scheduled during next year's Lunar New Year Holidays for Taiwanese businessmen returning home from the Mainland will follow the model implemented this year, and the "Mini-Three-Links" route via Kinmen and Matsu. The Government has also considered the participation of Mainland carriers in operating the chartered flights and has allowed two-way flights based upon the negotiations and agreements between both sides of the Strait.

November 23, 2003
In a special interview with the Washington Post, PRC Premier Wen Jiabao points out that the Mainland's policies on Taiwan are clear and definite, which include the stances on "peaceful reunification and one country, two systems" and "that no administration would abandon peaceful reunification." The Mainland will also safeguard reunification "at any cost," and demand that the US explicitly oppose Taiwan's promotion of its independence through holding a referendum and writing a new constitution.

November 25, 2003
Speaking on "Cross-Strait Relations and Taiwan's Mainland Policy" at the invitation of the Examination Yuan, MAC Chairperson Tsai Ing-wen points out that the most important thought of Taiwan's Mainland policy is its firm advocacy of the Republic of China's sovereignty and independence. Cross-Strait relations will be normalized only on the basis of sovereignty, parity, and peace.

November 26, 2003
In reaction to the statement of the Spokesperson of the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office on Taiwan's "referendum legislation," the MAC issues a press release expressing regret and reiterating once again that the basic stance of the Mainland policy of the Republic of China remains unchanged. The Mainland authorities should maintain an attitude of mutual respect and not interfere with the democratization process in Taiwan, so as to preserve cross-Strait relations in harmony.

November 26, 2003
At a regular press conference, Spokesperson for the Mainland State Council's Taiwan Affairs Office Zhang Mingqing points out that with regard to the chartered flights during the Lunar New Year Holidays next year, the Mainland side is firm in its stance on the principles of "direct and two-way interaction; mutual benefit and reciprocity." It welcomes the civilian air carriers of both sides to conduct negotiations on the technical and commercial aspects of the matter.

November 26, 2003
At a regular press conference, Spokesperson for the Mainland State Council's Taiwan Affairs Office Zhang Mingqing states that if Taiwan passes an "unlimited" referendum law that involves contents of the national flag, national title, and territory under its jurisdiction, the Mainland side will make a strong reaction. At the same time, if President Chen Shui-bian refuses to come to his senses and is bent on having his own way in creating an incident involving "Taiwan independence," Beijing will certainly not just sit idly by..

November 27, 2003
The Legislative Yuan passes the "Referendum Law."

November 27, 2003
Invited by the Exporters and Importers Association of Taipei to deliver a speech, MAC Chairperson Tsai Ing-wen expresses that the Mainland authorities should not simplistically interpret Taiwan's democratic development as a political issue on "unification vs. independence," even to the extent of unilaterally drawing a so-called "red line," causing unnecessary frictions and risks in cross-Strait relations. She also expects the Mainland to show a positive reaction so that the indirect chartered flights scheduled during next year's Lunar New Year Holidays will take off smoothly under positive cross-Strait interactions.

November 27, 2003
The SEF writes the ARATS pointing out that it has been authorized by Taiwan's high authorities to engage in the negotiations with the proper Mailand agencies for handling the preparations for the indirect chartered flights during the Lunar New Year Holidays for the Taiwanese businessmen. The SEF urges the ARATS to respond as soon as possible whether both parties could negotiate and make further arrangements that conform to mutual expectations, so that appropriate arrangements could be made.

November 27, 2003
SEF Chairman Dr. Koo Chen-fu issues a statement on the chartered flights for the Lunar New Year Holidays, expressing that acting as the windows for the agreements and dialogue between both sides of the Strait, the SEF and the ARATS have a unique responsibility to promote positive cross-Strait interactions and to enhance the welfare of the peoples on both sides of the Strait. We are willing to invite the Mainland's ARATS for negotiations based on the existing foundations, and hoping that the Mainland side will make a positive response as soon as possible, to enable us to make the subsequent arrangements.

November 28, 2003
The Mainland points out in the name of the "Spokesperson for the State Council's Taiwan Affairs Office" that "we are seriously concerned about the related situation of Taiwan's 'legislation of referendum' and are closely monitoring related developments."

November 30, 2003
President Chen Shui-bian expresses that the Mainland is imposing an external threat on Taiwan by deploying 496 ballistic missiles within a radius of 600 kilometers and carrying out military exercises for the purpose of attacking Taiwan at any time. In order to ensure Taiwan's sovereignty and public security, a "defensive referendum" is going to be held on March 21 next year.

December 1, 2003
MAC Chairperson Tsai Ing-wen points out that the defensive referendum is a display of Taiwan's democratic power and should not be considered to be provocative. In facing the democratic development in Taiwan, the Mainland should make a profound observation and understanding of the opinion and expectations of the Taiwanese people, and not unilaterally set restrictions or make any unreasonable responses, which cause unnecessary friction and risks in cross-Strait relations.

December 1, 2003
At the forum marking the 60th anniversary of the Cairo Declaration, the PRC's Taipei Affairs Office Vice Director Wang Zaixi reiterates that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China. China will never allow any individual to split Taiwan away from China by any means.

December 2, 2003
At a regular press conference, the PRC's Foreign Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Liu Jianchao states that China hopes the US will explicitly oppose the various provocative actions taken by Taiwan authorities to split China, and appropriately deal with the Taiwan issue, so as to maintain peace and stability in the Taiwan area and the common interests between China and the US.

December 4, 2003
In his meeting with US Senator Jeff Bingman, President Chen Shui-bian states that the majority of the Taiwan people want peace and loathe missiles, and that the planned "defensive referendum" is aimed at maintaining the status quo and avoiding any changes in the status quo. It neither involves the "independence vs. unification" issue nor breaches his "four no's plus one" pledge. The deepening and consolidation of democracy in Taiwan is to pursue lasting peace across the Taiwan Strait and security and stability in the Asia-Pacific region.

December 5, 2003
In a special interview with the New York Times, President Chen Shui-bian announces that the topic of the defensive referendum is that "the 23 million people of Taiwan will firmly demand that the People's Republic of China immediately withdraw all the ballistic missiles aiming at Taiwan and also openly and publicly announce and promise that they will not use force against Taiwan." He also reiterates that if the leadership in China can respond with goodwill and agree to immediately withdraw all the ballistic missiles aiming at Taiwan, and openly announce that they will not use force against Taiwan, then Taiwan will not hold a defensive referendum on March 20 next year.

December 5, 2003
The PRC's Xinhua News Agency publishes a signed article "Perilous Provocation" stating that President Chen Shui-bian recently made the Mainland's "threats of the use of force" as an excuse for his numerous proposals to promote the so-called "defensive referendum," showing his intention of causing endless trouble. This is an extremely dangerous provocation.

December 6, 2003
The Xinhua News Agency publishes a signed article stating that President Chen Shui-bian is promoting a defensive referendum that is extremely provocative to the current situation of cross-Strait relations.

December 7, 2003
In a meeting with UN Secretary General Kofi Annan in New York, PRC Premier Wen Jiabao expresses that Beijing understands the demands of the Taiwanese people for democracy. He adds that, "however, the separatist forces of the Taiwan administration are attempting to split Taiwan away from China under the guise of democracy, which we shall not tolerate." He further emphasizes that as long as there is a ray of hope, the Chinese government will never abandon using peaceful means to solve the Taiwan issue.

December 8, 2003
In response to the the statement of Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao in his meeting with Annan, the MAC reiterates that the Mainland has kept on saying that it has not abandoned a peaceful solution to the cross-Strait issue, yet it has continued to facilitate all kinds of military deployment, including ballistic missiles, which are all aimed at Taiwan along its coastal areas, causing a serious threat to the stable conditions across the Taiwan Strait and even further difficulty in developing beneficial cross-Strait relations. The MAC urges the Mainland authorities to correctly understand the real significance of democracy and not to treat the efforts of the government and the people of Taiwan in promoting democracy with a biased attitude and a slanted view.

December 9, 2003
PRC Premier Wen Jiabao holds talks with US President George Bush during his visit to the US and emphasizes that the basic guiding principle in the solution of the Taiwan issue has all along been peaceful reunification and under the "one country, two systems." The Mainland will make its best efforts and show its sincerity to achieve peaceful reunification with Taiwan in the end.The administration of Taiwan's Chen Shui-bian engages in a defensive referendum under the guise of democracy, seeking to split Taiwan away from the Mainland. China will neither accept nor tolerate such forms of separatist activities.

December 10, 2003
In his meeting with US Congressman Dan Burton, President Chen Shui-bian expresses a three-point view on the meeting between Bush and Wen and urges the international community not to accept Mainland's threat of force and missile deployment against Taiwan as a matter of course. The international community should not regard Taiwan people's efforts to deepen democracy, their will and efforts to maintain peace, and their worries about the Mainland's missile threat as provocative actions. The definitions of democracy, peace, threat, and provocation can by no means be determined by Beijing authorities unilaterally.

December 10, 2003
The MAC authorized the SEF a few days ago to write the ARATS proposing that negotiations be conducted on the "two-way" chartered flights during the Lunar New Year Holidays for Taiwanese businessmen next year. The ARATS responded by phone to the SEF saying that "this matter will be negotiated between the carriers of both sides." However, the Government hopes that the Mainland side will make a formal response to this matter.

December 10, 2003
In an interview with the CNN, PRC's Premier Wen Jiabao criticizes President Chen Shui-bian's proposal of a "defensive referendum," which is carrying out "Taiwanese independence" activities under the guise of democracy, which is therefore fraudulent in nature.

December 11, 2003
In her address at an international conference, attended by representatives from the US, Japan, and Taiwan, on "The Rise of China Revisited: Perception and Reality ," MAC Chairperson Tsai Ing-wen points out that the Mainland's deployment of 496 ballistic missiles aimed at Taiwan and the Mainland's recent intentional distortion of the intentions of Taiwan's leadership and people to initiate constitutional reform and referendum to deepen democracy have constituted a major obstacle to the display of the free will of the Taiwanese people and to the democratic progress in Taiwan.

December 12, 2003
China's PLA Daily publishes a commentary pointing out that as a politician, Chen Shui-bian's words are not in accord with his deeds, he contradicts himself and uses lame arguments. The substance of his "defensive referendum" is to split Taiwan from Mainland China and radically change the cross-Strait status quo. This is the real intention behind the so-called "defensive referendum" promoted by Chen Shui-bian.

December 15, 2003
In a special interview with the Financial Times, President Chen Shui-bian speaks on the issue of defensive referendum stressing that what President Bush concerns about is whether or not the status quo of Taiwan will be changed and that the Taiwan government has repeatedly emphasized that we do not intend to change the status quo. The referendum is to further safeguard the status quo of Taiwan and to avoid any changes in Taiwan's status quo.

December 16, 2003
In a press conference, PRC Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Liu Jianchao reiterates that Beijing opposes the split of Taiwan from China by any individual for any reason, and states that China's use of its military might to exercise its obligation to preserve its national sovereignty and territorial integrity is not at all the same as terrorism.

December 17, 2003
With regard to the statement of the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office on the "Three-Links," the MAC hopes that the Mainland side would eliminate the obstacles hampering cross-Strait negotiations in a pragmatic attitude, so as to promote the smooth implementation of the direct transportation links and the "Three-Links." They should not use the "one China" principle as an excuse to boycott cross-Strait negotiations between the SEF and the ARATS.

December 17, 2003
In a press conference, PRC's Taiwan Affairs Office releases its policy paper on "Prioritizing the Needs of the People, Working for the Welfare of the People, and Promoting the Cross-Strait 'Three-Links' in an Aggressively Pragmatic Attitude," totalling 9,500 words. The paper expounds on the Mainland's basic position and policy views on the "Three-Links," as well as practical issues related to banners and documents in connection with the cross-Strait direct transportation links.

December 17, 2003
In a regular press conference, PRC's Taiwan Affairs Office Spokesperson Li Weiyi points out that President Chen Shui-bian's insistence in holding a "defensive referendum," which is directly targeted at the Mainland, is a serious provocation to the principle of "one China," the stable development of cross-Strait relations, and the peaceful situation across the Taiwan Strait.

December 25, 2003
SEF Chairman, Dr. Koo Chen-Fu, emphasizes that the SEF and the ARATS are the most appropriate existing channels for communication and negotiations between both sides of the Strait. Since the end of August this year, the SEF and the ARATS have been keeping contact and making consultations with each other on several unexpected incidents leading to the proper management of these cases, which have re-affirmed the functions of both agencies. It is hoped that both agencies will normalize their contacts next year and contribute more for the development of cross-Strait relations.

December 25, 2003
In a meeting held in Beijing with about a hundred leaders of Taiwanese businessmen, PRC President Hu Jintao emphasizes that the Mainland will not allow Taiwanese separatist forces to split China, and strightforwardly points out that the problem in the implementation of the "Three-Links" is not with Beijing. He reiterates that political divergences will not affect cross-Strait economic cooperation. Provided that it is advantageous to the Taiwanese people, China will try its best to promote any policy.

December 26, 2003
In convening a meeting of the Presidential Economic Advisory Council, President Chen Shui-bian reiterates that Taiwan is willing to relax the visits to Taiwan by Mainland citizens to a larger extent for sightseeing and urges the Mainland side to responsed with goodwill.

December 26, 2003
Presiding at a forum held in Beijing in commemmoration of the 110th anniversary of Mao Tse-tung, PRC President Hu Jintao issues a lengthy statement mentioning PRC's Taiwan policy. He reiterates that the Mainland shall continue to uphold the guiding principles of peaceful reunification and "one country, two systems;" to carry out Jiang Zemin's "Eight-Point Proposals;" to reinforce cross-Strait personnel exchanges, as well as economic, cultural, and exchanges in other areas; and to maintain peace across the Taiwan Strait.

December 29, 2003
In his year-end press conference, Premier Yu Shyi-kun states that the Government is willing to continue operating the chartered flights during the Lunar New Year Holidays, and even welcome two-way flights and additional flight points. However, since the matter involves the administrative powers of both sides, negotiations are necessary. It is regretted that the Mainland side does not have any interest in negotiations causing the chartered flights to be stalled.

December 31, 2003
In his year-end message, President Chen Shui-bian urges the Beijing authorities to publicly abandon the threat of the use of force against Taiwan, and to withdraw the deployed ballistic missiles aimed at Taiwan. Otherwise, nostalgia and soft appeals will never be able to draw the feelings of the Taiwanese people closer.

December 31, 2003
The MAC releases a press statement expressing regret over the Mainland's Taiwan Affairs Office's repeated malicious criticism and defamation of Taiwan's head of state. This behavior reflects the Mainland authorities' lack of the cultivation of democratic values and their lack of the willingness to maintain harmonious cross-Strait relationship. The MAC repeatedly urges the Mainland authorities to keep sober and to gain further understanding of the significance of democracy in Taiwan. They have to immediately put a stop to their conduct that intensifies the tension between both sides, as well as the intimidations and the irrational behavior that hurts the feelings of the Taiwanese people. Only by doing so can cross-Strait relations return to the right track.

December 31, 2003
The implementation date of the amendments of the "Act Governing Relations Between the Peoples of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area" approved by the Executive Yuan and the amendment and promulgation of the enforcement rules of the Act will be dealt with in two phases. The first phase, which is from December 31, 2003
, includes the amended articles which are more pressing and require expeditious enforcement, such as Article 16, Article 18, Article 21, Article 22.1, Article 34, Article 79, and Article 89, and the articles in the amended Act that keep intact (which totals 47 articles). The rest of the amendments, which include cross-Strait personnel exchanges, the overall entry and exit system, the accompanying measures for Mainland spouses and their implementation, and the establishment and planning of new mechanisms for cross-Strait negotiations, will take effect on March 31, 2004.

December 31, 2003
In a press conference, the PRC's Taiwan Affairs Office Spokesperson Zhang Mingqing emphasizes that the insistence of the administration of Chen Shui-bian in his proposal of "one country on each side" in handling the issue of the "Three-Links" constitutes the greatest obstacle to the implementation of the cross-Strait "Three-Links."

December 31, 2003
Pu Zhaozhou, Director of the Office of Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macao Affairs of the Civil Aviation Administration of China, expresses his views on the issue of the chartered flights during the Lunar New Year Holidays next year for the Taiwanese businessmen. If the Taiwan side promises to allow two-way flights across the Strait in next year's chartered flights during the Lunar New Year Holidays, the Mainland can allow Taiwan's carriers to fly "one-way" flights this time directly flying from Taipei and Kaohsiung to Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Xiamen, without stopping over a third point. Moreover, it is hoped that the carriers of both sides engage in negotiations on the concrete details of the technical aspects of operating such flights as soon as possible.