Cross-strait ties are 'special relations': president

ROC Central News Agency

2012/12/26 16:38:39

Taipei, Dec. 26 ( CNA) President Ma Ying-jeou reaffirmed Wednesday that the Republic of China is a sovereign independent country, but that cross-Taiwan Strait ties involve 'special relations' rather than ties between two countries.

Under the Constitution of the Republic of China, the Republic of China is a sovereign independent country, 'a fact that cannot be changed,' Ma said at a ceremony announcing military promotions.

The territory under the ROC Constitution includes mainland China, but its jurisdiction only covers Taiwan and the outlying islands of Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu at present, the president said.

Ma said that since assuming the presidency in 2008, he has reaffirmed the 'special relations' under which the two sides do not recognize each other's sovereignty but do not deny each other's jurisdiction.

That formula has allowed the two sides to put aside differences and pursue peaceful development across the Taiwan Strait, the president said.

The Republic of China is Taiwan's official name.

Meanwhile, Defense Minister Kao Hua-chu said on the same occasion that the promotion of military personnel is based on merit, amid questions raised by opposition legislators on the qualifications of some of those promoted.

(By Kelven Huang, Chen Pei-huang and Lilian Wu)
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