Deputy Minister of the Mainland Affairs Council (MAC), Lin Chu-chia says China should respond positively to Taiwan’s efforts to integrate into the regional economy.
Speaking at a New Year gathering for returning Taiwanese businessmen on Tuesday, Lin said Taiwan’s efforts to join regional trade bodies should run parallel to cross-strait economic cooperation.
"Taiwan should not be excluded from global economic development nor should Taiwan’s right to participate in regional trade bodies be blocked due to the emphasis on cross-strait economic cooperation," Lin said.
Lin said if Beijing is supportive of Taiwan’s projects to join regional trade blocs, it will have a positive impact on the Taiwanese public’s perception of China.
He also said the MAC will continue to work for cross-strait policies beneficial to the people.
Also at the same venue, President Ma Ying-jeou said the government’s China policy is moving in the right direction despite minor incidents over the past year.