Taiwan and mainland China should sustain peaceful bilateral relations, seek common ground while shelving differences and make the people’s livelihood the top priority, according to ROC Vice President-elect Wu Den-yih April 1.
Wu’s comments came during a meeting with high-ranking mainland Chinese leader Li Keqiang prior to the Boao Forum for Asia in Hainan province.
As honorary head of the ROC delegation, Wu noted that the meeting, with its time arrangement, demonstrates Beijing strongly emphasizes the peaceful development of cross-strait relations.
“Since the ruling Kuomintang regained power in Taiwan four years ago, cross-strait relations have steadily improved,” Wu said. “Sixteen agreements benefiting the people of both sides have been inked, including those on mainland Chinese tourists to Taiwan, direct flights, joint crime-fighting, nuclear safety and reciprocal judiciary assistance.
“These pacts are not gifts from above, but rather win-win outcomes due to practical negotiations carried out by people with patience, prudence and wisdom across the Taiwan Strait,” Wu continued, stressing that he hopes a cross-strait investment protection agreement can be signed as soon as possible.
“The objective regarding Taiwan’s recent approval for mainland Chinese investors to own shares in more local businesses is for both sides to cooperate and jointly tackle regional integration,” Wu pointed out. “Taiwanese businessmen have contributed a lot in mainland China. We hope the policy can further strengthen bilateral exchanges.”
In addition, Wu pointed out that the people in Taiwan wish to participate in international activities, such as the International Civil Aviation Organization and the U.N. Framework Convention on Climate Change, and other nongovernmental organizations. “We hope mainland China can listen to the voice of our people.”
Founded in 2001, the Boao Forum is a platform for its 28 members to discuss pressing economic issues and exchange ideas on regional cooperation and development. This year’s event will take place from April 1 to 3, with a focus on sound and sustainable development. (HZW)
Write to Grace Kuo at morningk@mail.gio.gov.tw