MAC Press Release No. 039
The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) today (September 14, 2023) issued the following press release regarding its position on the "Opinions on the Pilot Zone for Cross-Strait Integration and Development" recently announced by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP):
1. We believe that the "Opinions" is part of the CCP's unilateral united front campaign against Taiwan to "promote integration and unification," a policy direction laid out at the party's 20th National Congress. A comprehensive analysis of the "Opinions" reveals that, it is in fact a collection of the existing CCP policies and measures. By putting forth these measures now—measures on education; employment; social engagement; industrial, agricultural, fishery, and technology collaboration; cultural exchange; and the formation of the Xiamen-Kinmen and Fujian-Matsu co-living spheres—the CCP is aimed at using "equal treatment and economic interest" as a pretext to lure and draw Taiwanese people and businesses to mainland China, accelerate their integration into mainland China's regulatory framework, and accept the CCP's rule. This approach is entirely wishful thinking by the CCP.
2. It is clear as day that mainland China currently faces a number of issues, including a slowing economy, flagging consumption, soaring youth unemployment rates, financial crises among large real estate developers, systemic financial risks, and a deteriorating business environment. The CCP obviously intends to use the "Opinions" to attract Taiwanese capital and talent in order to boost its internal economy. However, if mainland China cannot effectively address its internal economic problems, these measures for "promoting integration and benefitting Taiwan" will remain unrealistic.
3. We have noted that in the "Opinions," the words "exchange" and "collaboration" are mentioned 21 and 33 times, respectively, indicating that mainland China also recognizes that cross-Strait exchanges and collaboration are vital to creating a favorable atmosphere for interaction. We would therefore remind mainland China again that it should acknowledge the differences between the two sides in our political systems, ways of life, and values. Mainland China should respect Taiwanese people's firm stance on freedom, democracy, and dignity. Moreover, in the process of gradually resuming cross-Strait exchanges, there is a need to return to the existing dialogue and negotiation mechanism for coordination and communication as we handle the diverse issues involved, such as policies, regulations, policy implementation, and security. Proper arrangements will also need to be made to safeguard the rights and interests of the people and promote positive interaction between the two sides.
4. The MAC stated that Taiwan remains fully committed to maintaining the peaceful and stable status quo in the Taiwan Strait, closely follow the development of the situation, properly handle safety management, and facilitate the healthy and orderly cross-Strait exchanges.