April 10, 2018
The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) stated today (April 10, 2018) in response to the speech presented by the mainland Chinese leader at the Boao Forum and talks with participants from Taiwan that economic and social development in the Mainland has experienced remarkable growth and change since Beijing embarked on reforms and opening-up measures. Taiwan has made important contributions and exerted a major influence in this process. The Mainland needs to take a positive view of Taiwan's key role in the past, present, and future prosperity and development of mainland China and East Asia. Economic development and political reform are like the two wheels of a bicycle: they must move together in the same direction. A comprehensive and balanced development strategy based on win-win cooperation is the only way to truly align with trends in the era of globalization, bring happiness to the people, and bring peace and prosperity to the region.
The MAC stressed that, over the past two years, the government has reiterated several times that it will handle cross-Strait affairs in accordance with the Constitution of the Republic of China, the Act Governing Relations between the People of Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area, and other relevant legislation. It will also staunchly defend national sovereignty and dignity and democratic values and remain committed to maintaining the status quo of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. This is consistent with the substantive interests of all parties in the Asia Pacific region. The MAC called on mainland China to give up its unilateral political views as a precondition to cross-Strait exchanges and interactions; to respect the right of the Taiwanese people to choose the future development of cross-Strait relations and Taiwan; and to stop repeatedly resorting to intimidation and pressure when dealing with cross-Strait relations. It also called on the Mainland to "adopt an open mind and advance with the times" in cross-Strait communication and dialogue; to engage with Taiwan through exchanges and cooperation to resolve differences, jointly seek mutual benefit, and work for the greatest well-being of the people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait.