Date:01/03/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/03/01/stories/2006030104371600.htm

International

Hu slashes Taiwan move

Grave provocation to peace, says Chinese President

BEIJING: Chinese President Hu Jintao here on Tuesday condemned the decision of Taiwan authorities to cease the function of ``National Unification Council'' and the application of its guidelines, saying it is a ``dangerous step'' toward ``Taiwan Independence.''

Taiwan leader Chen Shui-bian announced on Monday that the ``National Unification Council'' shall ``cease to function'' and the ``National Unification Guidelines'' shall ``cease to apply''. ``Despite the strong opposition within and outside the island, the Taiwan authorities went its own way,'' Mr. Hu said.

It is a grave provocation to the one-China policy observed by the international community and to the peace and stability across the Taiwan Straits, he noted.

``It's also a dangerous step on the road towards `Taiwan Independence'. It's our unswerving will and determination to oppose `Taiwan Independence' secessionist forces and their activities and to safeguard the peace and stability across the Straits,'' the President said.

``We will continue to strive for the prospect of peaceful reunification, but never tolerate the secession of Taiwan from the motherland,'' Mr. Hu said. ``Anyone who moves against historical trend is doomed to failure.'' — Xinhua