Mainland Affairs Council

January 1, 2012
In a speech presented at the CPPCC National Committee New Year tea reception, PRC President Hu Jintao states that in the new year, the Mainland will adhere to the policy of "peaceful reunification and one country with two systems" to continuously promote the peaceful development of cross-strait relations on the basis of the "1992 Consensus."

January 9, 2012
The Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development issues a "Special Policy Opinion Supporting the Development and Opening of the Pingtan Comprehensive Experimental Zone." The Opinion allows enterprises and people in the Taiwan Area to invest in the establishment of construction, engineering design and engineering service enterprises in the Zone according to the law.

January 12, 2012
Governor of Fujian Province Su Shulin states that in this year, Fujian will fully implement the "Overall Development Plan for the Pingtan Comprehensive Experimental Zone," explore specific forms of "joint planning, joint development, joint operation, joint management, and joint benefits" between the two sides of the Strait, and promote the formation of a new pattern for interactions and cooperation between Pingtan and the counties and cities of Taiwan. It will also form an "Advisory Group on Promotion of Opening and Developing Pingtan" joined by well-known entrepreneurs, experts and scholars on the two sides, especially from Taiwan's six major industrial and commercial organizations and major research institutions to actively introduce strategic investors from Taiwan and encourage Taiwan persons, institutions and enterprises to participate in the development, construction and management of Pingtan.

January 14, 2012
Regarding Taiwan's election results, Spokesman for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council states that the peaceful development of cross-strait relations is the right path and has won the support of the broad masses of compatriots in Taiwan. The Mainland is willing to continue, on the common foundation of opposing "Taiwan independence" and adhering to the "1992 Consensus," to work together with various circles in Taiwan to continue the past and create the future, further create new prospects for the peaceful development of cross-strait relations, and work together for the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.

January 30, 2012
In an article entitled "Continuing the Past and Heralding the Future: Composing a New Chapter" published in Volume 2 of the Relations Across Taiwan Straits magazine, Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi states that the Mainland will further improve the operations of the Cross-Strait Economic Cooperation Committee and vigorously promote talks on the liberalization of the cross-strait trade in goods and services this year. At the same time, on the foundation of adhering to the "1992 Consensus," the Mainland will continue to promote SEF-ARATS talks, "placing priority on signing the Investment Protection and Promotion Agreement as scheduled." He also emphasizes that the essence of the "1992 Consensus" is to seek common ground while preserving differences, meaning to adhere to the common position of "one China" despite political differences between the two sides. On this foundation, the two sides of the Strait should further find common ground and assimilate differences, build mutual trust, and thereby provide a more solid guarantee for the long-term stable development of cross-strait relations.

February 2, 2012
The Zhangzhou Taiwanese Investment Zone is established with the approval of the Mainland's State Council and commemorated with a plaque. The State Council notes that the zone implements the current policy on national economic and technological development zones. It will take full advantage of exchanges with Taiwan and develop into a focal area for deep linkages connecting industries of the two sides of the Taiwan Strait and a major base for advanced manufacturing on the west side of the Taiwan Strait.

February 9, 2012
The Fujian Province Administration for Industry and Commerce states that from February 1, the Pingtan Comprehensive Experimental Zone will introduce a trial "direct registration system" for Taiwan-funded enterprises. All Taiwan-funded enterprises that are in the encouraged and permitted industries may apply for registration directly without providing documents for the approving authority.

February 10, 2012
In a speech presented at a Lunar New Year gathering held by the Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) and the Association of Taiwan Investment Enterprises on the Mainland (ATIEM), TAO Director Wang Yi states that 2012 is a year in which cross-strait relations carry forward the cause and forge ahead into the future. The Mainland will hold firmly to its working policies and guidelines towards Taiwan, continue to resolutely seize the theme of peaceful development of cross-strait relations, and continue to advance the peaceful development of cross-strait relations. Economic cooperation is still the focus of cross-strait relations this year. At the same time, the Mainland will expand cross-strait exchanges in culture, education and other fields and steadily build a strong political, economic, cultural and social foundation for the peaceful development of cross-strait relations. He also states that the "1992 Consensus" is an important basis and necessary precondition for improving cross-strait relations and promoting cross-strait negotiations.

February 15, 2012
At a regular press conference, the Taiwan Affairs Office emphasizes that it will continue to promote institutionalized negotiations between the SEF and the ARATS on the basis of the "1992 Consensus." According to the principle of alternate hosting, the eighth SEF-ARATS talks will be held in Taiwan in the first half of this year. Looking ahead, the Mainland is also willing continuously to create conditions and build consensus to resolve difficult cross-strait political and military issues . The two sides should uphold the common political foundation of opposing "Taiwan independence" and adhering to the "1992 consensus." On this foundation, the two sides can further assimilate differences and build mutual trust. The two sides should be able to sit down and talk about any political or military issues. "Shelving controversies, seeking common ground while preserving difference" is the best way to resolve political disputes.

February 24, 2012
The Pingtan Comprehensive Experimental Zone releases "Opinions on Encouraging and Supporting Taiwan College Graduates to Establish Businesses at the Pingtan Comprehensive Experimental Zone." The opinions call for preferential treatment in industrial and commercial registration, funding support, and housing for Taiwanese students that have graduated from overseas, the Mainland or Taiwan to establish businesses at the Pingtan Comprehensive Experimental Zone.

February 26, 2012
The General Administration of Press and Publication (GAPP) releases the "Guidance on Accelerating the Reform and Development of Publishing and Media Groups." This is the first time it clearly indicates support for publishing and media groups to participate in the construction of trial areas for cross-strait publishing exchanges.

February 29, 2012
The Taiwan Affairs Office indicates at a regular press conference that people from all walks of life in Taiwan who approve the peaceful development of cross-strait relations, including grassroots members of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), are welcome to visit the Mainland in appropriate capacities to enhance mutual understanding.

March 1, 2012
Mainland China emphasizes the "Four Musts" at its annual "Taiwan Work Conference": First, the Mainland must consolidate the framework under which the Mainland and Taiwan are both part of one China, enhance mutual political trust between the two sides of the Strait, and oppose and deter Taiwan independence separatist activities to make the people of Taiwan aware that Taiwan and the Mainland can not be opposed or separated from each other; Second, it must promote cross-strait negotiations, achieve progress in advancing ECFA follow-up talks, and create conditions for resolving difficult cross-strait political predicament; Third, it must vigorously promote exchanges in various fields, and continue to strengthen cultural and educational exchanges to enable the results of exchanges to benefit more people at the grassroots level in Taiwan; Finally, it must constantly unite and bring together people who support the development of peace between the two sides, build a strong foundation for the development of cross-strait peace, and establish a framework for the peaceful development of cross-strait relations.

March 3, 2012
In a work report presented at the Fifth Session of the 11th Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee, Chairman Jia Qinglin stated that the Mainland will develop multi-level and multi-channel exchanges with Taiwan, form close contacts between representatives of the two sides, expand links at the grassroots level, promote deeper cultural exchanges, strengthen economic and trade cooperation, and further enhance contacts with political parties and organizations, representatives of the people, social organizations, and especially young people in Taiwan.

March 5, 2012
Premier Wen Jiabao presented a Government Work Report at the opening of the Fifth Session of the 11th National People's Congress. He stated that cross-strait relations are actively advancing with opposition to "Taiwan independence" and acknowledgement of the "1992 Consensus." In the new year, the Mainland must continue to firmly adhere to the central government's principal policies and guidelines on Taiwan-related work to bolster the political, economic, cultural and public opinion foundation for the development of cross-strait relations and further develop a new situation of peaceful development of cross-strait relations.

March 6, 2012
At the plenary session for the Taiwan Delegation during the Fifth Session of the 11th National People's Congress, Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi stated that the Mainland will continue to adhere to the central government's policy on Taiwan work. Promoting the peaceful development of cross-strait relations will be the main theme and placing hopes in the people of Taiwan will be the main line to consolidate and deepen the peaceful development of cross-strait relations, as well as to promote cross-strait relations in various fields to achieve more progress and results.

March 6, 2012
During an interview with Voice of Strait, Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi stated that the two sides of the Taiwan Strait need to find the right time and create the necessary conditions to gradually begin exploring issues related to political dialogue. Political issues will be naturally resolved as the conditions steadily mature. The two sides should jointly consolidate the political foundation, deepen mutual trust, consolidate the results of exchanges, deepen mutually beneficial cooperation, and steadily usher cross-strait relations into a new era.
During an interview with Hong Kong's Wen Wei Po, Wang Yi stated that the Mainland is open to contacts with the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP). "In particular, the grassroots public in Taiwan, especially people in the central and southern regions, regardless of their political tendencies, are welcome to visit the Mainland." However, if the DPP continues to insist on the "Taiwan independence" position of "one country on each side," the Mainland side will resolutely oppose. Wang also reiterated that the two sides can discuss any issue under the "one-China" principle and premise.

March 14, 2012
At the press conference for the 11th National People's Congress, Premier Wen Jiabao stated that the Mainland will consider accelerating ECFA follow-up negotiations to further develop cross-strait financial cooperation, including promoting cooperation on bank settlement systems, encouraging mutual shareholding among banks of the two sides and, in the course of strengthening cross-strait economic and trade exchanges, "paying particular care to the interests of Taiwan's small and medium enterprises, industries with characteristics and the grassroots public, especially the interests of people in the central and southern regions."

March 15, 2012
At the opening ceremony of the "10th Symposium on Cross-Strait Relations," Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi stated that the peaceful development of cross-strait relations is now moving from the start-up stage to a new stage of consolidation and deepening, and the related work has to be done solidly. First, the two sides need to consolidate the foundation of cross-strait political mutual trust and deepen joint acknowledgement that both sides belong to one China. Second, they must consolidate the results of development of cross-strait economic and trade relations and deepen mutually beneficial cooperation. Third, they must consolidate overall exchanges between various sectors on both sides and deepen cultural and educational exchanges. And fourth, they must consolidate the foundation of public opinion for peaceful development of cross-strait relations and deepen the harmony of feelings among compatriots on both sides of the Strait.

March 22, 2012
During a meeting with KMT Honorary Chairman Wu Poh-hsiung, Chinese President Hu Jintao stated that, although the two sides are not yet unified, the territory and sovereignty of China has not been divided and the fact that both the Mainland and Taiwan belong to one China is unchanged. The two sides should be able to acknowledge that such fact is consistent with existing provisions on the two sides. Maintaining this one-China framework is beneficial to enhancing political mutual trust between the two sides and to the stable development of cross-strait relations. Furthermore, by strengthening cross-strait cultural exchanges, the two sides can promote identity with Chinese culture and the concept of the Chinese people as well as enhance the sense of Chinese identity among Taiwanese compatriots. He also noted that shelving controversies, seeking common ground, and interacting positively on the foundation of building political mutual trust is an important condition for improving the development of cross-strait relations. The two sides should promote follow-up talks to the Cross-Strait Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA) to achieve new results and consider negotiating and signing agreements in the cultural and education fields.

March 28, 2012
At a regular press conference, the Taiwan Affairs Office said that two sides of the Taiwan Strait are not in a state-to-state relationship. Both sides adhere to one China and seek common ground on this foundation. They agree that "both sides are part of one China" and have shelved controversies over areas of difference. Compatriots on both sides of the Strait are part of the Chinese race and are all Chinese people. In response to media questions on the "one country, two areas" view, he stated that this has long been the basic attitude of Taiwan towards cross-strait relations on a legal level. As for the issue of opening up and developing the Pingtan Comprehensive Experimental Zone, it is an economic matter rather than a "one country, two systems" experiment. Taiwanese compatriots are welcome to freely participate. Moreover, the establishment of reciprocal offices between the SEF and the ARATS responds to the current development of cross-strait relations, especially to the needs raised by cross-strait economic and cultural exchanges and contacts. It will enable specific issues that arise in the course of cross-strait exchanges to be handled in a more timely and convenient way. Furthermore, in order to stabilize the situation in the Taiwan Strait, the Mainland approves of the two sides' conducting exchanges on military issues at a suitable time to discuss the establishment of a mutual trust mechanism for military security.

April 1, 2012
During a meeting with the Taiwan-based Cross-Straits Common Market Foundation delegation including the honorary head Wu Den-yih in Boao, Hainan, PRC Vice Premier Li Keqiang stated that compatriots on both sides of the Strait are part of the Chinese race and the economy of the two sides is the economy of all Chinese people. The Mainland will pay close attention to promoting ECFA follow-up negotiations, strive to promptly sign a cross-strait investment protection and promotion agreement, work towards substantive developments in other talks. In addition, it will accelerate progress on cross-strait financial cooperation, vigorously strengthen cross-strait industrial cooperation, and jointly promote optimization and upgrading of the industrial structure.

April 1, 2012
While welcoming the Taiwan-based Cross-Straits Common Market Foundation delegation including the honorary head Wu Den-yih to the Boao Forum for Asia, Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi stated that strengthening cross-strait cooperation in various economic areas remains the priority and focal point of cross-strait relations this year. Cross-strait economic cooperation, in many regards, is moving from easy to more difficult issues. Both sides should deeply consider and face the problem of how to smoothly advance cross-strait economic cooperation and continue to achieve a mutually beneficial and win-win outcome for both sides. The two sides should further maintain, consolidate and continuously deepen political mutual trust between them. This is the only way to provide a more solid guarantee for advancing economic cooperation and resolving various problems in the economic sphere.

April 11, 2012
The Taiwan Affairs Office stated at a regular press conference that it actively supports promotion of the establishment of cross-strait currency settlement mechanisms and the "advance pilot" role of Xiamen in cross-strait exchanges. As to the issue of Taiwan's participation in the activities of international organizations, sensible and reasonable arrangements can be made through pragmatic cross-strait consultations on the premise of not creating "two Chinas," or "one China, one Taiwan." The Mainland hopes that the negotiation and signing of cross-strait exchange and cooperation agreements in the fields of culture and education can be included as negotiation issues between the two sides and that talks can begin soon. It also hopes that the Taiwan side can further provide a normal environment and the necessary conditions for Mainland students to study in Taiwan.

April 12, 2012
During a media interview following a meeting with U.S. Deputy Secretary of State William Burns, Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi stated that the Mainland's Taiwan policy will maintain stable and continuous, continuing to make orderly progress in promoting the peaceful development of cross-strait relations. The Chinese people have full wisdom and ability to resolve various problems concerning Taiwan through cross-strait negotiations on an equal footing. In this process, the Mainland hopes that the U.S. will continue to play an active role so that the Taiwan issue can truly become a positive factor rather than a negative one, a truly cooperation factor rather than a friction one, and a factor for enhancing strategic mutual trust rather than one causing strategic mutual distrust in Sino-U.S. relations.

April 14, 2012
During a discussion with representatives of the overseas Taiwanese community in Houston, USA, Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi stated that the Mainland will continue to advance the peaceful development of cross-strait relations, consolidate the political foundation between the two sides, maintain the core significance of the "1992 Consensus," and form a clearer joint acknowledgement and unanimous position under the framework of acknowledging that both sides are part of one China and the principle issue of maintaining "one China." The Mainland will also continue the line of thinking of handling easy matters before difficult ones and economic matters before political ones in promoting cross-strait exchanges and cooperation in various fields, continue to vigorously develop exchanges among various sectors on both sides, and actively expand cultural and education exchanges in particular. It will also pay more attention to contacts and interactions with the grassroots public in Taiwan, continue to implement the guideline of placing hope on the people of Taiwan, and continue to firmly advance the grand cause of peaceful reunification of the motherland.

April 17, 2012
In an article published in Qiushi magazine, Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi stated that the Mainland will continue to promote the theme of peaceful development of cross-strait relations with the main line of widely uniting the broad masses of Taiwanese compatriots. It will actively and effectively carry out various related work and constantly create a new environment for the peaceful development of cross-strait relations. The first part is to consolidate the foundation of political mutual trust between the two sides and deepen the joint acknowledgement that the two sides belong to one China; the second part is to consolidate the achievements of developments in cross-strait economic and trade relations and deepen mutually beneficial cooperation; the third part is to consolidate the overall environment for exchanges between different sectors on both sides and deepen cultural and educational exchanges; and the fourth part is to consolidate the basis of public opinion for the peaceful development of cross-strait relations and implement the guideline of placing hope on the people of Taiwan in various Taiwan-related work.

May 8, 2012
Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi states at a reception for the “Fifth Anniversary of the Establishment of the Association of Taiwan Investment Enterprises on the Mainland” that to consolidate the foundation requires deepening mutual trust between the two sides and forming a clearer consensus and unanimous position on the fact that the two sides belong to one China; whereas to consolidate economic foundation requires accelerating the progress of follow-up talks on the Cross-Strait Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA) and working to improve the well-being of compatriots on both sides of the Strait; also, to consolidate cultural and social foundation requires constant strengthening of common perception among compatriots on both sides of the Strait in terms of ethnic, historical, and cultural ties and the development course of cross-strait relations through ongoing promotion of cross-strait exchanges and contact in various fields. He also states that the Mainland will work to accelerate ECFA follow-up negotiations, focus on deepening cross-strait financial cooperation, continue to encourage Mainland business investments in Taiwan, and vigorously promote cross-strait industrial cooperation.

May 8, 2012
Chairman Jia Qinglin of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference states at a reception for the”Fifth Anniversary of the Establishment of the Association of Taiwan Investment Enterprises on the Mainland” that consolidating and deepening peaceful development of cross-strait relations is a major task in the next period. To this end, the two sides should continue building mutual political trust; compatriots on both sides should continue to expand exchanges and contacts; and both sides should further deepen mutually beneficial economic cooperation. He also emphasizes that both sides belong to one China, cross-strait economy concerns the economy of the whole Chinese people, and that compatriots on both sides of the Strait are one family, therefore, deepening cross-strait economic cooperations will be a priority and focal point.

May 11, 2012
Chairman Jia Qinglin of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference delivers remarks at the “Second Forum of Social Groups of Taiwan Compatriots”, saying that advancing mutual political trust is the first antecedent for realizing peaceful cross-strait developments. The two sides need to consolidate and deepen the political foundation of “both the Mainland and Taiwan belong to one China” and uphold the spirit of "building mutual trust, shelving disputes, seeking common ground, and jointly creating a win-win outcome."

May 14, 2012
The Ministry of Commerce announced that this year it would study the possibility of further opening up the scope of Taiwan agricultural products entering the Mainland market and expand the scope of tariff reductions on Taiwan agricultural products shipped to the Mainland. During the Twelfth Five-Year Plan period, the Mainland will actively implement the Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA) and other cross-strait agreements. It will also expand cross-strait trade, promote two-way investment, strengthen cooperation in emerging industries and modern service industries, and actively help Taiwan-funded enterprises in the Mainland to transform and upgrade operations. In regard to trade in agricultural products, the Mainland will further protect the intellectual property rights of Taiwan's agricultural products, increase supervision of the Mainland market, consolidate the main channels selling Taiwan agricultural products, and promote complementary advantages and win-win cooperation between the agricultural industries of the two sides.

May 16, 2012
Taiwan Affairs Office states at press conference the hope that an agreement can be reached this year in negotiations on trade in services, however, negotiations on trade in goods involve many dimensions and a broader scope of items, therefore making talks slightly more complicated, yet the Mainland expresses the will to accelerate negotiation timetable with Taiwan. It also expresses the will to exchange views with the other side on issues of mutual concern, including human rights and the rule of law, through political dialogue between the two sides in order to enhance mutual understanding. According to the arrangement of institutionalized negotiations between the SEF and the ARATS, the eighth SEF-ARATS talks will be held in Taiwan in the first half of this year. During which, the SEF and the ARATS will sign the Cross-Strait Investment Protection and Promotion Agreement and the Cross-Strait Customs Cooperation Agreement. Moreover, compatriots on both sides of the Strait hope that a peace accord can be reached to formally end the state of hostility across the Taiwan Strait and meet the overall interests of the Chinese nation. This is the concept that the Mainland has always advocated and is the inevitable outcome of peaceful cross-strait developments. The Mainland hopes that the two sides can work together to steadily create conditions and build consensus.

May 16, 2012
Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi indicates during a forum on exchanges with Taiwan that, all localities and departments need to conscientiously implement major Taiwan work policies, continue to promote the theme of peaceful development of cross-strait relations under the main line of broadly uniting Taiwan compatriots, place greater emphasis on further standardizing and establishing mechanisms for exchanges with Taiwan, and jointly promote the sound and orderly development of cross-strait exchanges.

May 30, 2012
The Taiwan Affairs Office states at a press conference that, although the Mainland and Taiwan have yet to be reunified, China's sovereignty and territorial integrity have not been divided. The fact that both sides belong to one China has not changed. The two sides are not "two Chinas.", neither are relations between Taiwan and the Mainland "state-to-state" relations. As for the long-standing political differences between the two sides, the Mainland has consistently advocated shelving disputes, seeking common ground, and, through political dialogue, build consensus and create conditions to resolve these issues in the future.The rising issue of establishing reciprocal offices between the ARATS and the SEF is to deal with increasing exchanges due to peaceful development across the sStrait, the ARATS and the SEF will facilitate exchanges of views on this issue. In order to constantly deepen cross-strait cultural exchanges and cooperation, the two sides should actively consider negotiating and signing relevant agreements when necessary. The Mainland is also willing to continue exploring with Taiwan the various plans of establishing mechanisms for cross-strait cultural exchange. The Mainland also hopes that the authorities in Taiwan can advance with the times and promptly modify outdated policies and regulations.

June 13, 2012
The Taiwan Affairs Office stated at a regular press conference that it is willing to establish and develop normal exchanges and contact with various political parties in Taiwan. Furthermore, in order to conform to the new environment created by increasingly close cross-strait cultural exchanges and contact, it will actively promote the mutual establishment of cross-strait cultural offices in the private sector and hopes to reach a consensus with relevant parties in Taiwan through communication and negotation. Regarding cross-strait cultural agreements, pacts on any issue that become mature through communication and n egotation can be considered for negotiation and signing.

June 17, 2012
Chairman Jia Qinglin of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference stated at the "Fourth Cross-Strait Forum" that the Mainland will continue to implement guiding policies to promote peaceful cross-strait developments, advance peaceful development of cross-strait relations as the main theme, and broadly unite the vast number of Taiwan compatriots as the main line to consolidate and reinforce the common foundation for opposition to "Taiwan independence" and acknowledgement of the "1992 Consensus". It will also actively promote cross-strait economic cooperation and ECFA follow-up talks, continue to deepen cross-strait cultural and educational exchanges, and further build a strong political, economic, cultural and social foundation for peaceful cross-strait developments. He also proposed a four-point guideline to expand and deepen private exchanges between the two sides in the new environment, including the following: Maintain good momentum in the vigorous development of cross-strait private exchanges; further develop active effects of cross-strait private exchanges in building cohesion in public opinion; further enhance the well-being of the general public through cross-strait private exchanges; and further elevate the quality and level of cross-strait private exchanges.

June 17, 2012
Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi stated at the "Fourth Cross-Strait Forum" that the Mainland will support and encourage concerned parties to take more active initiatives to create more favorable conditions for expanding and deepening private exchanges between the two sides; support and encourage Mainland missions to more thoroughly connect with Taiwan's grassroots and locals; support and encourage the steady institutionalization and normalization of private exchanges between the two sides to further elevate the quality and level of such exchanges; and support all localities and departments in formulating and implementing more measures beneficial to the people of Taiwan. Director Wang also announced several related policy measures, includeing further relaxing policies related to the Mainland employment of Taiwanese students that graduated in the Mainland and other Taiwanese residents, and the expansion of trial points for the employment of Taiwanese students and other Taiwanese residents by Mainland businesses, providing greater conveniences for Taiwanese compatriots living and working in the Mainland, allowing Taiwan residents to apply for teacher certification for Mainland institutes of higher education, and allowing imports of rice from Taiwan.

June 17, 2012
Minister of Civil Affairs Li Liguo stated at the Cross-Strait Marriage and Family Forum during the Fourth Straits Forum that, with regards to new demands in the area of cross-strait adoption, the Mainland is actively amending related policy laws and regulations to provide spouses and relatives across the Taiwan Strait with more regulated and smooth adoption channels. In the future, the Mainland will further strengthen direct exchanges among cross-strait spouses, relatives and private organizations and encourage more Mainland spouses in Taiwan to actively participate in marriage and family related private organizations, so that cross-strait spouses can build friendship through mutual assistance and integrate into local life, at the same time, further normalize and institutionalize cross-strait marriage and family exchanges.

June 27, 2012
The Taiwan Affairs Office stated at a regular press conference that the Mainland has never opposed to private-sector economic contacts between Taiwan and foreign countries, but opposes to the negotiating and signing of any country with Taiwan on agreements involving sovereignty. It also stated that the Mainland hopes various sectors of Taiwan society can show concern and understanding for cross-strait marriage and family, and that the relevant competent authorities in Taiwan will promptly adjust and modify certain outdated provisions on Mainland spouses to create better environment and conditions for their family and life in Taiwan. After several discussions, the two sides are basically in consensus on the investment protection agreement and customs cooperation agreement, and the chief concerns of compatriots on both sides have been fully reflected and handled. Currently, the two sides are engaged in final discussions on the specific formulations and text of the agreements.

July 3, 2012
The Mainland's All-China Federation of Taiwan Compatriots kicksed off the "2012 Taiwanese Compatriot Youth Summer Camp" in Beijing. The summer camp is consisted of four sessions and will visit 27 Mainland provinces.

July 4, 2012
Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi stated in a speech presented at the opening reception for the Fifth Tianjin-Taiwan Investment Cooperation Conference, that promoting peaceful development of cross-strait relations is the established policy of the Mainland. They will maintain the continuity and stability of its guiding principles and policies on Taiwan and steadily consolidate and deepen political, economic, cultural and social foundation for peaceful cross-strait developments. He stated that "putting people first, working for better benefits for the people" is the fundamental principle that the Mainland has always adhered to in interacting with Taiwan compatriots, the Mainland will strive to make more convenient the process of practical affairs for the people of Taiwan, especially at the grassroot level. Furthermore, benign cross-strait interactions must be maintained, positive factors must be steadily increased to contain certain negative tendencies, and mutual consensus must be reached between the two sides to gradually resolve existing differences.

July 6, 2012
Spokesperson Liu Weimin of the Mainland Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that the Mainland will continue to take necessary measures to resolutely uphold sovereignty over the Diaoyutai Islands. He stressed that safeguarding the territorial integrity and sovereignty of mainland China's ancestral land is a common aspiration of compatriots on both sides of the Strait, as well as the joint responsibility of both sides.

July 18, 2012
The Taiwan Affairs Office and China Development Bank (CDB) signed an "Agreement to Promote Cooperation on Cross-Strait Economic Prosperity and Common Development of Enterprises." Between 2012 and 2015, CDB will provide the equivalent of RMB50 billion in financing to Mainland-based Taiwanese enterprises.

July 19, 2012
Spokesperson Hong Lei of Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated at a press conference that mainland China opposes official contacts and the development of substantive relations between the United States and Taiwan. The Mainland urges the U.S. to abide the spirit of the One China Policy and the three Sino-U.S. Joint Communiques, to prudently and properly handle Taiwan-related issues, and cease all forms of official contact with Taiwan so as to avoid harming peaceful development of cross-strait relations and Sino-US relations.

July 28, 2012
Chairman Jia Qinglin of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference stated at the opening ceremony of the "Eighth Cross-Strait Economic, Trade and Cultural Forum", that seeking common ground and positive interaction on the foundation of building political mutual trust is an important condition for the improvement and development of cross-strait relations. Advancing cross-strait negotiations and exchanges in various fields according to the concept of dealing with "easy matters before difficult ones" and progressing "step by step" is an effective way to expand cross-strait relations. A three-point proposal is issued for the development of cross-strait relations:
First, to consolidate political foundation and keep up momentum of peaceful developments. To enhance political mutual trust at this time is to maintain and consolidate the One China framework. The core concept of the One China framework indicates that the Mainland and Taiwan both belong to one country and the relationship across the Strait is not one of state-to-state.
Second, to deepen economic and trade cooperation and expand on the results of peaceful development. The two sides should prioritize the deepening of cross-strait economic and trade cooperation in cross-strait developments, as well as accelerate the development of various long-term mechanisms beneficial to deepening cross-strait economic cooperation.
Third, to strengthen cultural and educational exchanges and broaden the content of peaceful development. Cross-strait exchanges and cooperation in terms of culture, education, news, publication, film and television, art, religion, folk custom and folk religion should continue to be strengthened.

July 29, 2012
Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi stated in a speech presented at the farewell cocktail party for the "Eighth Cross-Strait Economic, Trade and Cultural Forum", that the investment protection agreement and customs cooperation agreement to be signed at the upcoming talks between the SEF and ARATS will encourage the investment of Mainland capital in Taiwan. He stressed that the Mainland is willing to communicate closely with the Taiwan side to accelerate discussions for cross-strait pact on trade in services, in hope of reaching an agreement by the end of this year. At the same time, the Mainland will accelerate negotiations on cross-strait trade in goods agreement, as well as fast-track study, planning and consensus building related to the mutual establishment of institutions by the SEF and ARATS on the Mainland and Taiwan side, respectively. To achieve these goals, a "political foundation" for cross-strait relations must be consolidated so as to intensify mutual political trust.

August 8, 2012
ARATS Chairman Chen Yunlin stated in a written speech upon arriving in Taipei for the Eighth Chiang-Chen Talks, that accelerating Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA) follow-up talks and building on the achievement and benefits of the ECFA are currently important tasks in SEF-ARATS negotiations. Amidst the challenges posed by the changing international economic environment for economic development on both sides, advancing cross-strait economic integration is an option that can no longer be delayed, therefore, the two sides will fully promote discussions on trade in services, trade in goods, and the ECFA dispute settlement agreement in 2012 and 2013. As long as the two sides adhere to the political foundation of building mutual trust, they will be able to continue, through negotiations, to usher in a new win-win era of mutual benefit in cross-strait relations.

August 10, 2012
Director Wang Yi of the Taiwan Affairs Office of the CPC Central Committee and State Council stated during a meeting with the ARATS negotiation team, that the entire negotiation process for the Cross-Strait Investment Protection Agreement has demonstrated that, although cross-strait talks are gradually entering "deep water zone," the two sides can achieve their anticipated goals if they work together towards a common path. He also stated that further discussion is still needed on the three Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA) follow-up agreements, and that the two sides have reached consensus of focusing on discussions related to trade in services, with the aim of completing talks this year. The principle for negotiation on trade in services agreements is "reciprocity", however, differences in the economic scales and the actual needs of compatriots on both sides of the Strait will also be taken into consideration. Director Wang also expressed the view that both sides should comprehensively begin exchanges on technology, culture, education, and earthquake-related cooperation.

August 19, 2012
Director Wang Yi of the Taiwan Affairs Office of the CPC Central Committee and State Council stated at the third cross-strait county and city "Double Hundred Forum," that the achievements and results in cross-strait relations provides important experience in several respects. The first is to adhere unswervingly to the direction of peaceful cross-strait developments. The second is to firmly oppose "Taiwan independence" and steadfastly identify with the political foundation of the "1992 Consensus." The third is to adhere unswervingly to the basic line of handling easy matters before difficult ones and progressing in an orderly manner, continue to deepen cross-strait exchanges and cooperation in various fields, and constantly advance cross-strait relations to acheive new results. And the fourth is to adhere unswervingly to the fundamental purpose of putting people first and seeking benefits for the people.
Wang Yi stated that the development of peaceful cross-strait relations has entered a new state of consolidation, in which grassroot representatives for people on both sides are social forces that both reflect and lead public opinion. They should continue to realize their respective strengths and carry out their rightful duties to contribute even more to peaceful cross-strait developments. They should first, reflect the people's voices and guide public opinion; second, understand grassroots thoughts and focus on practical issues; third, be the bridgebuilder and strengthen exchanges; and fourth, maintain the right and uphold the overall situation.

August 28, 2012
Director Wang Yi of the Taiwan Affairs Office of the CPC Central Committee and State Council stated at the founding ceremony of the Cross-Straits Marriage and Family Association that the driver for cross-strait development lies in the private sector. Among the people on both sides of the Strait, cross-strait marriage couples have become forces for maintaining cross-strait peace and stability and promoting exchange and harmony. It is hoped that relevant parties in Taiwan can pragmatically attend to reasonable demands of Mainland spouses in Taiwan, make further improvements in addressing the difficulties they face in terms of residency, work, and life, and promptly eliminate artificial restrictions and discrimination.

August 29, 2012
Deputy Director Zheng Lizhong of the Taiwan Affairs Office of the CPC Central Committee and State Council stated at the opening ceremony of the 11th Liaoning Taiwan Week, that the Mainland will continue to promote various Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA) follow-up talks, promote two-way cross-strait investment and industrial cooperation, advance cross-strait cooperation in finance and other modern service industries such as the prompt establishment of cross-strait currency settlement mechanisms, and support the transformation and upgrading of Taiwan-funded enterprises in the Mainland with the aim of creating better conditions for cross-strait economic exchanges and cooperation. The Mainland will also actively promote cross-strait exchanges in cultural, education, social and other fields, and work to strengthen political, economic, cultural and social foundation for the peaceful development of cross-strait relations.

September 1, 2012
Director Wang Yi of the Taiwan Affairs Office of the CPC Central Committee and State Council stated at the 18th Shandong-Taiwan Economic and Trade Fair in Weifang, Shandong, that the Mainland side is ready to approve of seven actions so as to implement the Cross-Strait Investment Protection and Promotion Agreement:
1.Promptly convene an inter-ministerial joint meeting on protecting Taiwanese businesses、rights and interests, so that all relevant departments involved in respective areas may accurately and effectively implement the Agreement.
2.Publicize and introduce theIinvestment Protection Agreement, through appropriate methods, to the great nember of Taiwanese businessepeople in the Mainland, and help and encourage them to proactively make use of the Agreement.
3.Promptly establish the investment dispute settlement mechanism and investment consultation mechanism stipulated in the Agreement, and strengthen institutionalized and normalized communication and coordination.
4.Strengthen and revise the Law of the People's Republic of China on Protection of Investment by Compatriots from Taiwan and the related enforcement rules promulgated by the Mainland side.
5.Formulate measures to identify Taiwanese businesses investing in the Mainland through third areas and implement protections measures for the rights and interests of such investors.
6.Confirm judicial interpretations and supporting measures on dispute resolution in investment compensation cases involving an investor and an investment location
7.Promptly finalize the Consensus under the Agreement regarding protection of personal freedom and safety and formulate concrete implementation measures.

September 4, 2012
The Taiwan Affairs Office of the CPC Central Committee and State Council and the Hebei Provincial Government signed a Memorandum Of Understanding on promoting exchanges and cooperation between Hebei and Taiwan. The State Council Taiwan Affairs Office and Hebei Province will draw on their respective strengths to establish a close cooperation mechanism. The two sides will enhance communication and cooperation in the five areas of Hebei-Taiwan economic and trade relations, Hebei-Taiwan cultural exchanges, Taiwan-related publicization, protection of the legitimate rights and interests of Taiwan compatriots, and establishment of Taiwan-related cadre teams to achieve a mutually beneficial and win-win outcome.

September 4, 2012
Member of the Politburo Standing Committee of the Communist Party of China Jia Qinglin raised four suggestions during a meeting with Taiwanese exchange delegation led by Yao Eng-chi, Chairman of the Cross-Strait Public Opinion Exchange Foundation to deepen peaceful development of cross-strait relations. First, strengthen confidence and adhere to the path of peaceful development in cross-strait relations. The Mainland will continue to thoroughly implement guiding policies to promote the peaceful development of cross-strait relations, and consolidate and deepen political, economic, cultural and social foundations for peaceful development of cross-strait relations. Second, consolidate the foundation and maintain the accurate course of cross-strait relations, whereby both sides deepen political mutual trust, and uphold and consolidate the one China framework. Third, expand exchanges and promote deeper development of cross-strait cooperation in various fields. Active measures should be taken to support and encourage people on both sides to expand various forms of exchange in all fields, sectors, and industries. Fourth, jointly create win-win results to enhance the well being of the people on both sides. Deepening cross-strait economic and trade cooperation should continue to be prioritized, so that two sides may complement each other economically and jointly increase competitiveness.

September 5, 2012
Taiwan Affairs Office Deputy Director Sun Yafu stated at the opening ceremony of the Third Cross-Strait Chinese Character Art Festival, that the two sides should consolidate and deepen the peaceful development of cross-strait relations, continue to strengthen exchanges and cooperation, advance dialogue and consultation, expand contact between the people, strengthen institutionalized development in the political, economic, cultural, and social spheres, solidify the foundation, and maintain the strong momentum for correct progress and development. The two sides need to work harder than ever to develop cross-strait cultural exchanges and cooperation in order to consolidate and deepen the cultural foundation, especially with regards to reinforcing the common cultural and national identity of compatriots on both sides of the Strait, and also reinforcing the concept that compatriots on both sides of the Strait are part of one family.
Sun Yafu also indicated that the Mainland will continue to first, create a policy environment beneficial to cross-strait cultural exchanges and cooperation; second, promote the deepening of cross-strait cultural exchanges and cooperation; third, create quality goods for cross-strait cultural exchanges and cooperation; and fourth, promote institutionalization of cross-strait cultural exchanges and cooperation. The Mainland encourages cultural groups on both sides to establish exchange and cooperation mechanisms, and promotes the establishment of reciprocal offices by cross-strait private cultural groups. It also encourages persons on both sides to study the issue of signing cross-strait cultural exchange agreements or culture-related pacts.

September 7, 2012
General Secretary Hu Jintao of the CPC Central Committee proposed three points on consolidating and deepening the peaceful development of cross-strait relations during a meeting with KMT Honorary Chairman Lien Chan in Vladivostok, Russia. The first id to unwaveringly adhere to the path of peaceful development in cross-strait relations; second, continuosly consolidate the political foundation for peaceful cross-strait development, oppose "Taiwan independence", and insist on the common political basis of the "1992 Consensus"; and third, seize the prospects for cross-strait relations in the historic process of a changing world order and national revival.

September 8, 2012
Vice Minister of Commerce Jiang Yaoping presented a four-point proposal at the Seventh Cross-Strait Economic Cooperation and Development Forum that the two sides should progress in an orderly manner in the continual promotion of negotiations on the Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA) follow-up agreements; seize opportunities to actively promote two-way investment cooperation; focus on the long-term future and facilitate cross-strait industrial cooperation; and pragmatically promote and actively assist the transformation and upgrading of Taiwan-funded enterprises in the Mainland.

September 12, 2012
Spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office expressed at a press conference the hope for the Democratic Progressive Party to objectively and comprehensively understand the Mainland, dispel animosity, adjust policies, reduce interferences in cross-strait exchanges and cooperation, and gradually change its "Taiwan independence" position. Regarding the Diaoyutai issue, the Spokesperson stated that the Diaoyutai and its affiliated islets have been part of the inherent territory of mainland China since ancient times. Compatriots on both sides of the Strait are of the same family and "brothers quarrelling at home join forces against attacks from without." Defending sovereignty over the Diaoyutai and its affiliated islets is a bounden duty shared by all compatriots on both sides of the Strait. The Mainland also called on the relevant competent authorities and regulatory agencies in Taiwan to put people first by promptly modifying outdated policies and provisions to meet the overall demands of cross-strait exchanges and cooperation. Furthermore, he stated that the Mainland has always been consistent in its position on the treatment of Taiwan's international space; as long as the momentum of cross-strait development is maintained and cross-strait mutual political trust builds, such issues can always be duly handled through pragmatic negotiations. As for how Taiwan will participate in International Civil Aviation Organization related activities, will depend on the provisions stipulated in the organization charter and will be decided through cross-strait negotiatons.

September 14, 2012
Thirty-three CPC Central Committee and State Council departments participated in the Fourth Joint Meeting for the Protection of Taiwanese Buisnesspeople’s Rights and Interests in Beijing. During which the State Councilor Dai Bingguo stated that over the past five years, the joint meeting has encouraged all localities and departments to lawfully handle numerous cases concerning the rights and interests of Taiwanese businesses and Taiwanese compatriots, and has announced a series of policy initiatives. In step with the contiuous progress in cross-strait developments, the government hopes for participating members of the joint meeting to take practical actions to continue consolidation of public opinion for the peaceful development of cross-strait relations, and steadily create new developments in cross-strait relations.

September 19, 2012
Director Wang Yi of the Taiwan Affairs Office of the CPC Central Committee and State Council expressed hope at the opening ceremony of the Cross-Strait Entrepreneurs Purple Mountain Summit that the Summit will play the following four roles. First, build consensus and maintain peaceful development of cross-strait relations. Second, cooperate hand-in-hand to revitalize the Chinese nation and economy. Third, explore ways to deepen cross-strait industrial cooperation. And fourth, strengthen communication and promote two-way investment across the Strait.

September 23, 2012
Director Wang Yi of the Taiwan Affairs Office of the CPC Central Committee and State Council stated at the opening ceremony of the 2012 Jiangxi-Taiwan Economic and Trade Cooperation Seminar that on the Mainland side, there are four constants in terms of developing cross-strait relations: first, the Mainland will continue to insist on the basic principle of peaceful development of cross-strait relations; second, it will continue its opposing position to "Taiwan independence" and its basic position on identifying with the "1992 Consensus"; third, it will continue to adhere to its basic line of thinking on handling easy matters before difficult ones and advancing in an orderly manner; and fourth, it will continue to adhere to the basic principle of putting people first and working for the well-being of the people.

September 26, 2012
Spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council stated at a press conference that the Diaoyutai and their affiliated islets are part of the existing territory of mainland China. Defending sovereignty over the Diaoyu Islands and the affiliated islets and safeguarding the overall interests of the Chinese nation are bounden duties shared by all compatriots on both sides of the Strait. Official ships of the Mainland have patrolled, enforced justice, and protected fishery rights in this sea area, and will continue to do so to serve fishermen on both sides.

October 16, 2012
Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi presented an article in the latest issue of Qiushi Journal, indicating that over the past 10 years, significant progress and breakthroughs have been achieved through the promotion of cross-strait relations, including resolutely defeating the "Taiwan independence" plot, establishing a political foundation for cross-strait relations, achieving comprehensive and direct two-way "Three Links" across the Taiwan Strait, broadly uniting Taiwanese compatriots to promote cross-strait developments, appropriately handling Taiwan's foreign affairs, and consolidating observance of the one China policy in the international community. In the future, the Mainland will constantly solidify and deepen political, economic, cultural and social foundation for peaceful cross-strait developments and continue to usher in a new era of work towards Taiwan.

October 17, 2012
Taiwan Affairs Office Spokesperson stated at a press conference that the establishment of reciprocal offices by ARATS and SEF is utterly essential and can make more convenient the process and facilitate services for compatriots on both sides when dealing with specific issues emerging from the course of cross-strait exchanges. It is hoped that both sides can promptly complete respective plans, communicate and conduct dialogues in order to reach a consensus. Furthermore, he expressed the Mainland's hopes for Taiwan to continue active measures to provide a normal learning environment for Mainland students studying in Taiwan, as well as open up to the negotiation and signing of a cross-strait cultural exchange agreement. The Spokesperson stressed that the two sides can sign a package agreement on cultural exchanges or can make arrangements in specific areas regarding cross-strait cultural exchanges and cooperation. The Mainland also expressed hope for the realization of mutual establishment of representative offices by media agencies.

October 17, 2012
Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi stated during a meeting with newly-appointed SEF Chairman Lin Join-sane and visiting SEF delegation, that the achievements of the SEF-ARATS negotiations are all based on the most important consensus between the two sides of opposing "Taiwan independence" and adhering to the "1992 Consensus", which is the common foundation for the resumption and steady advance of negotiations between the SEF and ARATS. Director Wang Yi also stated that much experience has been accumulated through the SEF and ARATS negotiations, and may be summarized into the following four areas: communicating in good faith and negotiating on an equal footing; treating each other with sincerity and interacting positively; handling easy matters before difficult ones and advancing in an orderly manner; and putting the people first and working for the people's benefits.

October 17, 2012
Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference Jia Qinglin stated during a meeting with SEF cultural, economic, and trade delegation led by Lin Join-sane, that more active measures should be adopted in cross-strait relations. The first is to further solidify conviction. The second is to further consolidate the foundation, by which most importantly to consolidate and strengthen the political foundation of opposing "Taiwan independence" and upholding the "1992 Consensus". The third is to show greater wisdom, seek common ground and accept differences while building mutual trust, and then progressively assimilate differences; at the same time, promote negotiations based on the principles of gradually dealing with "easy matters before difficult ones" with the aim of creating mutual benefits and a win-win outcome. The fourth is to further strengthen courage on the Taiwan side in hope that Taiwan can pursue a more active Mainland policy and effectively promote and deepen cross-strait cooperation in various fields.

October 18, 2012
The Ministry of Transport announced four policy measures towards Taiwan in the area of sea transportation, including: 1) adding two new direct cross-strait shipping ports and upgrading transportation service capacity; 2) deepening cross-strait search and rescue cooperation and jointly creating a peaceful Taiwan Strait; 3) strengthening crime fighting and punishment of illegal acts and consolidating the achievements of direct cross-strait transportation links; and 4) establishing a sound market regulatory system to ensure that enterprises substantively benefit from direct cross-strait transportation links.

October 23, 2012
Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi stated during the "Leaders' Meeting of the National Association of Taiwan-Funded Enterprises" in Shandong, that the current and future main focus of deepening cross-strait economic cooperation will be on: 1) effectively implementing the Cross-Strait Investment Protection and Promotion Agreement; 2) accelerating cross-strait financial cooperation; 3) accelerating the completion of Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA) follow-up talks and seeking to conclude negotiations on the cross-strait trade in services agreement this year; and 4) steadily promoting the establishment of reciprocal offices between the SEF and ARATS through negotiations between the two organizations.

October 31, 2012
Spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office stated at a press conference that mainland China has indisputable sovereignty over the South China Sea Islands and surrounding sea area and that it welcomes persons in various fields on both sides to make active proposals on South Sea cooperation. TAO Spokesperson further stated that the "1992 Consensus" is an important political foundation for promoting the peaceful development of cross-strait relations, and the Mainland and Taiwan both belong to the one China; therefore, relations across the Strait are not of state-to-state relations, and that the Mainland is willing to listen to and consider rational, active, and constructive opinions and proposals on the development of cross-strait relations from people in all sectors of Taiwan. The Spokesperson also statesd that the Mainland would like to see Taiwan improve medical conditions for Mainland students in Taiwan and hopes that Taiwan can continue actions in canceling discriminatory policies against Mainland students in order to provide normal and friendly environment and conditions for their study and stay in Taiwan.

November 5, 2012
Director of the State Bureau of Cultural Relics Li Xiaojie offered proposals on future work related to cross-strait cultural relic exchanges during the 20th Anniversary Forum on Cross-Strait Cultural Relic Exchanges. He indicated that the major tasks in the future are to, first, promote institutionalized and mechanism-based exchanges on cultural relics, eliminate restrictive regulations hindering cross-strait cultural relic exchanges, and promptly include the signing of a cross-strait agreement on cultural relic exchanges in the agenda for SEF-ARATS negotiations. Second, the two sides should also support cultural relics exchange activities in all areas and by all departments on the two sides, and promote more cooperative relations between museums, cultural preservation institutions, and cultural heritage research institutions on the two sides. Third, continue to strengthen high-level cross-strait exchange visits in cultural and art circles, alternately host or jointly participate in commemorative activities with major significance, constantly expand the scope, level and influence of cross-strait exchanges and cooperation on cultural relics. And forth, solidify the foundation of cross-strait cultural ties by implementing Taiwan-related heritage conservation projects.

November 8, 2012
General Secretary Hu Jintao of the CPC Central Committee stated in a report at the 18th National Congress of the CPC that the realization of peaceful unification begins with ensuring the peaceful development of cross-strait relations . He stated that although the Mainland and Taiwan are not yet reunified, the fact that the two sides belong to one China has never changed, and that the national territory and sovereignty has never been divided and shall never be divided. The two sides should firmly uphold the common position of opposing "Taiwan independence" and adhering to the "1992 Consensus", advance and maintain joint acknowledgement of the "one China" framework, and seek common ground while reserving differences on this foundation. The Mainland is willing to engage in contact, dialogue, and cooperation with all Taiwanese political parties with the prerequisite that that they do not advocate "Taiwan independence" and identify with the "one China". Hu also stated that, they would continue to promote cross-strait exchanges and cooperation, deepen economic cooperation and build up common interests, expand cultural exchange and reinforce national identity, and promote negotiations on an equal footing and concentrate on institutional improvements. It is hoped that the two sides can work together and explore a reasonable arrangement on cross-strait political relations under the special circumstances prior to national reunification, discuss the establishment of a cross-strait military Confidence Building Mechanism to stabilize the Taiwan Strait, negotiate and conclude a cross-strait peace agreement, and oppose firmly the separatist schemes of "Taiwan independence." The Chinese people will never allow any person or any force to separate Taiwan from the motherland by any means.

November 10, 2012
Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi presented the main tasks for cross-strait relations in the consolidation and deepening stage during an exclusive interview with Xinhua News Agency: The first is to consolidate the foundation of mutual political trust between the two sides and adhere to the one China principle. On the foundation of opposing "Taiwan independence" and adhering to the "1992 Consensus", the two sides should form a clearer acknowledgement and unanimous position on establishing and consolidating the one-China framework. The second task is to continue to deepen cross-strait economic cooperation and build on the common interests of compatriots on both sides of the Strait. The third task is to strengthen cross-strait cultural and educational exchanges and deepen the feeling of unity among compatriots on both sides of the Strait. The fourth task is to consolidate the social foundation for the peaceful development of cross-strait relations and steadily expand the support and participation of the people on both sides.

November 16, 2012
Taiwan Affairs Office Spokesperson stated at a press conference that the "1992 Consensus" is an important political foundation for developing cross-strait negotiations, building mutual trust, and promoting the peaceful development of cross-strait relations. The core value of the "1992 Consensus" is to adhere to the one China principle, and its essence is to seek common ground while reserving differences. For the very first time, the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China included the "1992 Consensus" into the work report, indicating clearly that "the two sides should abide the joint position of opposing 'Taiwan independence' and adhering to the '1992 Consensus,' and advancing the joint acknowledgement of maintaining the one-China framework." It is hoped that the two sides can continue to build mutual political trust and deepen cross-strait peaceful developments.
The Spokesperson also said that cross-strait political issues objectively exist and will have to be faced sooner or later. Both sides should work together to create the conditions to resolve these political difficulties, continue to strengthen cross-strait economic cooperation, and expand cross-strait exchanges in cultural, education and other fields according to the basic thinking line of handling easy matters before difficult ones and advancing in a gradual way. At the same time, they should constantly build consensus and create conditions to resolve cross-strait challenges in the political, military, and other spheres.

November 26, 2012
Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi stated at a forum on the 20th anniversary of the "1992 Consensus" that the core of the "1992 Consensus" is to adhere to the one China principle. He pointed out that the Mainland and Taiwan belong to one China, cross-strait relations are not of state-to-state relations, and that the two sides should negotiate on an equal footing under the one China framework. Equal negotiations can be developed under the prerequisite of adherence to the "1992 Consensus" and acknowledgement of one China. The establishment of this core value is not only consistent with the objective fact, but also corresponds to the respective regulations of the two sides. The essence of the "1992 Consensus" is to seek common ground while reserving differences ; this has developed into an important part of the political foundation for the cross-strai peaceful development. Being the foundation and condition for any exchanges between the Mainland and the Tawianese authorities and all political parties, the core of the "1992 Consensus" lies in recognization of the Mainland and Taiwan belonging to one China. So long as this condition is met, no barriers lie between exchanges between the Mainland and Taiwanese political parties.
Director Wang also noted that the report of the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China proposed new positions and new statements on consolidating and deepening the peaceful development of cross-strait relations: To begin, this is the first time that that "1992 Consensus" has been included in official party documents, clearly showing the high level of attention given to the "1992 Consensus" as an important part of the political foundation for the peaceful development of cross-strait relations. Secondly, it proposes that the two sides should strengthen joint acknowledgement of the one-China framework, with clear intentions to seek common views between the two sides based on recognition of and adherence to one China, to expand mutual common ground, to reinforce mutual inclusiveness, and thereby to deepen mutual political trust. Third, the report emphasizes the strengthened institutionalization of the peaceful development of cross-strait relations. Fourth, it advocates discussion of cross-strait political relations under the special circumstances before national reunification and makes sensible and reasonable arrangements on this point; "sensible" in that it considers the concerns of both sides and does not try to impose on the other side; and "reasonable" in that it respects the legal foundation and does not seek to create "two Chinas" or "one China, one Taiwan."

November 28, 2012
Taiwan Affairs Office Spokesperson stated at a press conference that a sensible and reasonable arrangement on the issue of Taiwan's participation in the activities of international organizations can be made through pragmatic cross-strait negotiations on the precondition that it does not create "two Chinas" or "one China, one Taiwan." On the matter of reciprocal institution establishment by the SEF and the ARATS, it is hoped that both sides can complete respective research and planning with consensus concluded as soon as possible; as for specific issue such as locations of establishment can be further discussed during future exchange of opinions across the Strait.

December 6, 2012
ARATS Vice Chairman Wang Zaixi stated during an interview with a Voice of Strait reporter that cross-strait relations have now entered into the consolidation and deepening stage. The two sides should follow up the implementation of cross-strait economic exchanges and cooperation by promptly launching and progressively promoting institutionalized political negotiations, and engage in some sort of contact in the period before the arrival of the next scheduled election in Taiwan. As to the issue of cross-strait political positioning, it is believed that the two sides should gradually begin preparation for the end of hostility between the Strait and conclusion of a peace accord. On the future development of cross-strait relations, Wang Zaixi stated that the two sides have signed 18 agreements and laid a foundation for peaceful cross-strait developments in consistence with the long-term interests and fundamental interests of the Taiwanese people; regardless of which party takes office in future elections, the overall trend of advancing cross-strait developments will not change. Wang also stated that, with the realization of the goal to build a well-off society in the Mainland by 2020, revitalization and unification of the Chinese nation is no doubt the future trend.

December 7, 2012
Taiwan Affairs Office Director Wang Yi stated in a welcome speech to a delegation of the Taiwan Township and City Council Federation that, peace and stability will endure in the Taiwan Strait as long as the two sides continue to oppose "Taiwan independence" and adhere to the "1992 Consensus"; and cross-strait relations will continue to advance forward as long as the two sides continue to strengthen exchanges and deepen cooperation.

December 12, 2012
Spokesperson of the Taiwan Affairs Office stated at a press conference that the mutual establishment of cross-strait cultural institutions in the private sector will promote cultural exchanges and cooperation between the two sides and expressed hope that both sides can work to promptly achieve this. The Spokesperson also said that currently the main task in developing peaceful cross-strait relations is to consolidate and deepen political, economic, cultural, and social foundation, while at the same time, with focus on advancing ECFA follow-up negotiations, deepening cross-strait economic cooperation, and promoting cross-strait cultural exchanges. The existence of political differences between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait is an existing objective fact; individuals of the academia or private sectors across the Strait may begin dialogue to seek more common ground and consensus, and enhance mutual trust so as to gradually create conditions for addressing problems in the future. Furthermore, the two sides may engage in dialogue concerning military issues when time-appropriate to explore the establishment of a military confidence building mechanism between the two sides, during which, the two sides may also discuss the military deployment and related issues.

December 19, 2012
Director Wang Yi of the Taiwan Affairs Office stated at the opening ceremony of the First Cross-Strait Cultural and Creative Industry Cooperation Forum that cross-strait cultural and creative industry cooperation should be the next breakthrough and direction for strengthening and deepening cross-strait economic cooperation. He also indicated that development of the cultural and creative industry is an objective need in the respective economic transformation of both sides; it may strengthen the competitiveness and vitality of enterprises on both sides and create a new outlook for mutual benefits across the Taiwan Strait. Mutual learning and complementing of strengths between the cultural and creative industries across the Strait will help both sides to jointly promote the soft power of the overall Chinese ethnic group on the global stage.

December 22, 2012
Director Sun Yafu of the Research Center for Relations across the Taiwan Straits stated at a forum and seminar on the 20th anniversary of the 1992 Consensus that, in promoting cross-strait peaceful developments, the important concept of the political foundation is the insistence on the Mainland and Taiwan both belonging to one China; the measures taken in promotion were the deepening of exchanges and cooperation and advancing of consultations and negotiations; the strong driveing force is to enhance the sense of unity among compatriots on both sides of the Strait; and the necessary condition for any development is opposition to "Taiwan independence" separatist activities. Based on this foundaiton, the government has set six policy directions of enhancing mutual political trust, advancing economic cooperation, strengthening cultural exchanges, negotiating foreign affairs, and resolving political and military issues.

December 26, 2012
During a news conference, Taiwan Affairs Office Spokesperson expressed support for the two sides to jointly establish a cross-strait professional baseball league, and said that a pattern for major cross-strait sports exchanges has formed over the past few years on the levels of the Olympic Committees, individual athletic associations, and grassroots private sports organizations of the two sides. On the other hand, he also stated that the Mainland has always forbidden travels to Taiwan via a third country, therefore Mainland residents should follow relevant provisions stipulated in the Cross-Strait Agreement Concerning Mainland Tourists Traveling to Taiwan when visiting Taiwan. He also expressed hope that relevant departments on both sides can increase cooperation to end such phenomenon. As for Mainland tourists traveling to Taiwan through normal channels, there are no barriers for them when undergoing cosmetic or health check procedures in Taiwan. Furthermore, he stated that Taiwan should promptly adjust and amend discriminatory provisions toward Mainland spouses of cross-strait marriages and Mainland students studying in Taiwan so as to protect their dignity and legitimate rights and interests.