China's Top Adviser Calls for Unity, Slams Taiwanese Independence

Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) chairman Jia Qinglin urged members to back the proposed anti-secession law, which aims to curb Taiwan's independence movement. The law, expected to pass almost unanimously, has been met with widespread support from CPPCC delegates, including members from diverse ethnic and religious groups. Jia emphasized the importance of promoting "peaceful reunification" and "one country, two systems" through economic, scientific, and cultural exchanges. He also called on CPPCC members to work together to eliminate Taiwanese suspicions and misunderstandings about Beijing's policies.

Key Takeaways:

• Jia Qinglin, CPPCC chairman, called on members to back the proposed anti-secession law, urging them to work together to curb Taiwan's independence movement.
• The law, scheduled to be presented to the National People's Congress on Tuesday, is expected to pass almost unanimously by March 14.
• CPPCC delegates, including members from diverse ethnic and religious groups, showed unreserved support for the law to safeguard national unity.
• Ding Wenfang, deputy chairman of the Islamic Association of China, expressed support for the law, saying it was a response to Taiwanese President Chen Shui-bian's timetable for "one country on each side" and constitutional reform.
• Xu Shiquan, vice-chairman of the National Society of Taiwan Studies, believed many Taiwanese people would support the law as they start to understand its benefits for peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.
• The CPPCC has promoted the principles of "peaceful reunification" and "one country, two systems" through publicity work and economic, scientific, and cultural exchanges.

Statistics:

• The CPPCC has over 2,000 members, including members from diverse ethnic and religious groups.
• The anti-secession law is expected to pass almost unanimously by March 14.