China Slams Taiwan for Issuing New 'Passport'

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Last updated at: (Beijing Time) Wednesday, June 18, 2003

China Slams Taiwan for Issuing New 'Passport'

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Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Liu Jianchao said Tuesday that Taiwan's decision to add the word "TAIWAN" to the cover of its new "passport" is an example of its continuing attempts to seek "gradual Taiwan independence" and another serious step to the detriment of cross-straits relations.

Liu made the remarks at a press conference in response to a question on Taiwan's issuance of a new "passport" scheduled to begin on Sept. 1, which will bear the word "TAIWAN" on its cover.

Liu said there is only one China in the world, which includes both the mainland and Taiwan, and China's sovereignty and territorial integrity allows for no separation.

He said Taiwan's recent decision to issue the new "passport" is part of a continued attempt to seek "gradual Taiwan independence" and constitutes another serious step undermining relations across the Taiwan Straits, something which should put all Chinese people on high alert.

Regardless of the tricks played by the Taiwan authority, it will not change the fact that Taiwan is part of China, said Liu, adding that Taiwan's attempt to seek separation and "Taiwan independence" will never succeed.

Liu said China hopes the international community respects China's national sovereignty and territorial integrity and remains alert to Taiwan's attempts to split China.

China, US Enjoy Potential for Cooperation in Non-proliferation

China and the United States enjoy great potential for cooperation in non-proliferation, said the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman.

In response to a question from the press, Liu said this potential could be tapped through detailed consultations, adding that both sides share common interests in non-proliferation.

China firmly opposes the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and has taken many important measures in this regard, he said.

China advocates good cooperation among countries in this field, he noted.

China welcomes initiatives conducive to Mideast security

China welcomes and supports all initiatives and efforts conducive to security and stability in the Middle East, said Liu when asked to comment on a French proposal to send peace-keeping forces to the Middle East.

At a regular press conference, Liu said safeguarding peace and stability in the Middle East is the responsibility and obligation of the international community.

China hopes the parties concerned will adopt flexible attitudes on this issue, show sincerity and implement the roadmap plan for the Middle East at the earliest possible date, he said, expressing his wish that the international community will enhance efforts in this regard.

Foreign minister to visit three European countries

Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing will visit Greece, Britain and Portugal late this month, according to the spokesman.

Li is expected to meet with the Foreign Ministers of the Troika of the European Union (EU) in Athens and pay a visit to Greece from June 30 to July 1, at the invitation of George Papandreou, the Foreign Minister of Greece and the rotating president of EU.

Prior to the trip, from June 24 to June 29, Li will pay an official visit to the UK and Portugal at the invitation of Foreign Secretary of the UK Jack Straw, and Portuguese Foreign Minister Antonio Martins da Cruz.

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