Date: July 13, 2018
MAC Press Release No. 47
Regarding views on cross-Strait relations proposed by the mainland Chinese leader during a meeting with persons from Taiwan, the Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) stated today (July 13, 2018) that the government has firmly maintained a consistent policy of upholding the peaceful and stable status of cross-Strait relations and staunchly defending national sovereignty and dignity and Taiwan's identity. Amidst the complexities and changes in the current cross-Strait situation, the two sides have a responsibility to stabilize developments and work for the well-being of the people. Mainland China must recognize the cross-Strait reality, respect public opinion in Taiwan, and resolve differences through communication. This remains the direction of public sentiment.
The MAC stressed that the Republic of China (ROC) is a sovereign state and that Taiwan has been a responsible party in maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and the larger region. Over the past two-plus years, the government has promoted cross-Strait affairs according to the ROC Constitution, the Act Governing Relations between the People of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area, and other legislation. It has also been committed to maintaining the status quo in the Taiwan Strait and actively demonstrated pragmatism and goodwill. The MAC indicated that the future development of cross-Strait relations must be pragmatically and objectively faced. It cannot be decided by one side alone, nor can it be determined by force. Over the past nearly 70 years, the situation in the Taiwan Strait has steadily progressed from hostility to peace. This result was achieved by the joint efforts of the people on both sides of the Strait. It should be properly cherished by both sides.
The MAC stated that the pursuit of cross-Strait peace is the greatest consensus among the people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait. It is also a historical trend in the development of cross-Strait relations. In their pursuit of national rejuvenation, the Mainland authorities should learn rationality, openness, and respect. They should integrate with the value systems of democracy, freedom, human rights, and rule of law, as well as have the courage to shoulder their historical duty. The MAC calls on both sides to commit to resolving their differences through communication without preconditions. This alone is the correct path for cross-Strait relations to secure steady progress.