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Chen once more refuses to rule out independence

President Chen Shui-bian (陳水扁) yesterday reaffirmed his position that the future of cross-strait relations had unlimited possibilities, including unification or independence, saying that the most important thing for the time being is for leaders from both sides to sit down to talks without preconditions.

"I will never change my stance just because Beijing attacks me," Chen told CNN reporter Mike Chinoy in an interview at the Presidential Office to be broadcast today at 9am.

"To fix unification as the only choice for the Taiwanese people is totally against the principles of democracy and freedom," Chen said.

Chinoy asked the president whether his attitude toward China was hardening in view of his declaration last month that unification was not the only choice for Taiwan.

The President said that he had made this remark in response to local media questions about whether he would take up the post of chairman of the National Reunification Committee.

"I read the National Unification Guidelines (國統綱領) and I found that the first article stated the goal of accomplishing unification under the principles of freedom and democracy," Chen said. "To limit the choices about Taiwan's future is not to conform to democracy or freedom."

Chen stressed that he was elected in accordance with the Constitution of the Republic of China and should therefore be responsible for maintaining national sovereignty.

"I have continually delivered goodwill with a view to reconciliation and active cooperation since the inauguration," Chen said. "It does not mean that I want to make concessions over Taiwan's basic stance."

"The Republic of China, however, is a completely democratic country and the DPP is also a totally democratic and progressive party. As head of state, I can't exclude any opinions."

He said that his sincere goodwill, expressed in expectation of reopening dialogue with Beijing leaders, was consistent and would not change just because of criticism from Beijing.

"Only if we stabilize the current situation, can we improve relations step-by-step," Chen said.

As to whether Taiwan was worried about China expanding its military power, Chen said that Taiwan would not enter into an arms race with Beijing.

The president also mentioned the issue of WTO entry, saying that he was glad to see both sides communicating in accordance with the international community's rules, which would help China move towards democracy.

"After both sides have entered the WTO, the cross-strait relationship should be one of `competition and complementariness,' under the rules of the international community," Chen said. "I believe that it will be a great help in stabilizing the cross-strait situation."
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