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President Ma emphasizes no use of force

ROC Central News Agency

2011/05/01 23:19:46

Berlin, May 1 (CNA) President Ma Ying-jeou of the Republic of China told German media that Taiwan will adhere to the principle of no unification, no independence, no use of force in promoting relations with mainland China.

Ma made the remarks in an interview with German weekly magazine Spiegel at the Presidential Office in late April.

President Ma pointed out in the interview which was published in the May issue of the weekly that Taiwan can only extend some kind of influence towards the mainland, if both sides talk to each other.

"According to our Constitution, we will adhere to the principle of no unification, no independence, no use of force, " said the president, referring to the relations with the Chinese mainland.

He added that "This is a clear policy which reflects the expectation of the majority of Taiwanese people and is in the best interest of Taiwan."

While the Chinese mainland has become the largest market for Taiwanese products, President Ma said that Taiwan is seeking not to rely only on that market.

In order to minimize the risks, "We do not put all the eggs into one basket. Nevertheless, mainland China is the biggest basket among all. It would not be wise not to do so," he said.

Regarding Taiwan's national defense, the president said that in addition to military strength, Taiwan is seeking to develop its " soft power" through promoting culture, economy and trade.

He said that Taiwan has close cooperation with the United States in security issue. "We buy weapons which we do not produce from the U.S."

"In 1982, the U.S. government gave Taiwan six assurances, among which the guarantee of no time limit for weapon sales to Taiwan and no need of discussions (on weapon sales) with the mainland."

Addressing German reporters's concerns over human rights situation on the mainland and Taiwan's stance, President Ma said, since mainland China "has become the second largest economy of the world, it has to fulfill its responsibility in the world. This also pertains to reforms in individual freedom, democracy, rule of law, and human rights."

The President said that he was one of the only nine heads of state worldwide who congratulated Liu Xiaobo when he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, and in the meantime, he also appealed to the government in Beijing to release Liu.

He said that through reforms and opening up to the world, mainland China has liberated itself from poverty and achieved enormous economic growth. And the emergence of internet and new technologies has made it possible for more and more people to express political opinions there.

"Sooner or later, (mainland) China will also move towards a more liberal and democratic society," said President Ma. (by Lillian Lin) Enditem/Bear