Members of the 10th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), China's top advisory body, held special panel discussions Tuesday to consider the proposed Anti-secession Law. Earlier in the day, the members heard explanations of the draft by Vice Chairman Wang Zhaoguo of the National People's Congress Standing Committee.

Most of the members showed unreserved support for the legislation, saying it expressed the feelings of the Chinese people. They said the law reflects the common will and resolution of the government and all Chinese people, including overseas Chinese and Taiwan compatriots, to defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Xie Zhengguan, who is a member of the Taiwan Democratic Self-government League, said that passage of the law is necessary and timely in light of the current cross-Straits situation.

Feng Jianqin and Song Yuqing, members of the Revolutionary Committee of the Chinese Kuomintang, praised the draft for its rigorous logic and justifiable reasoning, saying it shows the central government’s flexibility, vision and sincerity in achieving reunification peacefully.

The members slammed “Taiwan independence” forces for their provocative separatist attempts, which they feel prompted the need for the law, and called on Taiwan authorities and politicians to respect the will and interests of all Chinese people.

They suggested more exchanges between the people of the mainland and Taiwan to enhance mutual trust and reduce misunderstandings. They also suggested further promotion of cross-Straits trade and more convenient access for Taiwan businesses on the mainland.

Chen Guizhou, who is a native of Hualian, Taiwan Province, and vice president of the All-China Federation of Taiwan Compatriots, said, “The draft Anti-secession Law outlines limits for “Taiwan independence” forces but it’s not a timetable for reunification. It represents our commitment to peaceful reunification and 'One Country, Two Systems.' As a native of Taiwan, I fully support the ratification  of the law.”

Several members of the Revolutionary Committee of the Chinese Kuomintang pointed out that their party has countless ties with the people of Taiwan and offered their collective and personal efforts for peaceful reunification.

Members of the China Democratic League said that they are concerned about the Taiwan authorities' efforts to alienate Taiwan youth from the mainland through such means as distorting Chinese history and removing words containing “China” from textbooks.

(China.org.cn by staff reporter Chen Chao, March 11, 2005)