President Ma floats possibility of cross-strait peace deal
President Ma Ying-jeou floated the possibility of a cross-strait peace accord within 10 years Oct. 17, while vowing to
continue to improve Taiwan's international status.
"We are now thinking whether we should cautiously consider the possibility of signing a peace agreement with mainland
China in the next decade based on the progressive approach we've adopted in dealing with cross-strait relations," Ma
said.
Ma, who is seeking re-election in January, contended that a peace agreement with mainland China would help create
long-term stability across the Taiwan Strait, which is essential for Taiwan's sustainable development.
The president stressed, however, that such a move would only be taken when it has strong public support, meets the
actual needs of the country and can be supervised by the Legislature.
"There is no timetable for considering a cross-strait peace pact, but it is an option that is not ruled out. We would
only take such action when there is sufficient trust between the two sides and all conditions are right," Ma said.
Ma's remarks came in the last of a series of news conferences outlining his 10-year plan for the country, elaborating
his visions on cross-strait peace and a friendly international environment.
Ma said over the past three years his administration has safeguarded the sovereignty of the ROC and enhanced public
welfare by maintaining cross-strait peace under the Constitution and the policy of no unification, no independence and
no use of force.
Another key reason for the currently thriving cross-strait relations is the step-by-step principle his government has
adopted, putting economics before politics and dealing with issues that are urgent or easily resolved prior to those
that are less urgent and more difficult, he added.
For cross-strait relations to continue moving forward, it is important that Taiwan and mainland China interact without
denying each other's authority to govern, despite the fact that they do not recognize one another as sovereign
countries, according to Ma.
The president said his government will gradually permit more Chinese investment in the future, as it does not make sense
to exclude mainland China when Taiwan is trying to welcome more foreign investment.
Meanwhile, Ma proposed that Taiwan and mainland China should increase cooperation on global issues such as climate
change, environmental protection, humanitarian aid, green energy and public health.
As to foreign policy, Ma vowed to continue "viable diplomacy" in promoting relations with other countries, saying this
pragmatic and flexible strategy has been well received by the international community and has proven to be in the
interests of the people of Taiwan.
A clear example is the 70 additional countries and territories that have offered visa waivers and landing visas to
Taiwanese citizens since he took office in 2008, bringing the total number to 124, Ma added.
The president also pledged that Taiwan would continue in its role as a peacemaker, supplier of humanitarian aid,
promoter of cultural exchange, architect of new technology and business opportunities, as well as champion of Chinese
culture with unique Taiwanese characteristics.
ENDS