Press Interpreter

03/15/05 -- Article I. In order to oppose and mitigate the divisive influence of the "Taiwanese Independence Movement**;" in order to promote stability and peace in the Taiwan Strait region; in order to protect the nation's rights and the integrity of its territory; in order to secure the welfare of the Chinese people, we establish this law in accordance with the constitution.

Article II. In this world, there is only one China. The mainland and Taiwan comprise only one China. China's rights as a nation as well as the integrity of its territory do not allow for secession. Protecting the nation's rights as well as the integrity of its territory is a task shared by all Chinese people and includes our Taiwanese compatriots. Taiwan is a part of China. China will absolutely never tolerate the divisive influence of "Taiwanese independence" under any name of form, nor will it allow Taiwan to split off from China.

Article III. The Taiwan issue is a long-standing Chinese internal conflict.*** The resolution of the Taiwan issue and the realization of unity in the motherland is a Chinese internal affair and will not be interfered with by foreign powers.

Article IV. Completing the great task of unity in the motherland is a sacred responsibility shared by all Chinese people including our Taiwanese compatriots.

Article V. Maintaining our "One China" policy is the foundation of realizing peace and unity in the motherland. A peaceful unification of the motherland is in the best interest of our Taiwanese compatriots. With utmost sincerity and with utmost diligence, China will strive for a peaceful reunification. Upon reunification, Taiwan may operate under a different system than the mainland and have a high degree of autonomy.

Article VI. China will take the following measures to protect the peace and stability of the Taiwan Strait Region and develop cross-strait relations:

1) Encourage and promote cross-strait exchange of personnel, increasing understanding and promoting dialogue.

2) Encourage and promote cross-strait economic exchange and cooperation. Allow direct exchange of mail, direct transportation, and direct exchange of goods, thereby strengthening economic relations and producing greater wealth.

3) Encourage and promote educational exchange programs as well as technological, cultural, sanitation and athletic exchanges collectively promoting the glorious legacy of our common Chinese culture and heritage

4) Encourage and promote cross-strait cooperation in the prosecution of criminals

5) Encourage and promote other activities that help protect the peace and stability of the Taiwanese straits region and promote cross-strait relations. China will protect the interests and rights of our Taiwanese compatriots in accordance with the law.

Article VII. China will achieve unity and peace through fair dialogue and negotiation on both sides of the Taiwan Strait. Dialogue and negotiation can occur in incremental steps and also allow for flexibility and variations in form. Both sides of the Taiwan Strait should engage in dialogue and discussion about the following topics:

1) How to formally end the animosity between China and Taiwan

2) How to improve cross-strait relations

3) What arrangements and steps should be taken to promote peace and unity

4) What is the political position of the Taiwanese authorities

5) What is the scope of Taiwan's engagement with the international community, and what adjustments will be necessary

6) Any other issue relating to China's and Taiwan's peaceful reunification

Article VIII. If the divisive influence of the "Taiwanese independence movement" under any name or form causes Taiwan to split off from China, or if it gives rise to major events which may possibly cause Taiwan to split off from China, or if the chance of peaceful reunification is entirely lost, then the China must undertake non-peaceful and other necessary measures to protect the nation's rights and the integrity of its territory. If it becomes needful to undertake non-peaceful and other necessary measures according to the previous clause, then under the direction of the Sate Council, the Military Commission of the Central Committee will decide on and propose measures which will then be reported to the National People's Congress in a timely manner.

Article IX. If, in accordance with this document, it becomes needful to implement non-peaceful and other necessary measures, China will try to its utmost ability to preserve the lives, property, safety and due rights of Taiwanese civilians and foreign persons living in Taiwan, minimizing their losses. At the same time, China will protect the rights and interests of Taiwanese people who live in China and other regions according to China's laws.

Article X. This law is effective on the date of issuance.

Chairman: Hu Jintao

Vice Chairman: Guo Boxiong, Cao Gangchuan, Xu Caihou

Committee Members: Liang Guanglie, Li Xunai, Liao Xilong, Chen Bingde, Qiao Qingchen, Zhang Dingfa, Jing Zhiyuan

[Full text]

*This law was passed on March 14, 2005, by the People's Congress with a vote of 2,896 to 0.

**This is from the Chinese Taidu meaning Taiwan Independence.

***The Chinese text literally reads, "civil war" (neizhan).

[The text of the law appeared in the Nanfang Ribao (Southern Daily), from which it was translated here.]

--Translated by Joseph McMullin

Go to original article:
http://www.nanfangdaily.com.cn/southnews/jwxy/200503150279.asp