Zhu reiterated in a grand reception marking the 51st anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China that the question of Taiwan cannot be put off indefinitely.

"New leaders of the Taiwan authorities should size up the situation, follow the historical trend, abandon their separatist proposition and embark on the bright road of peaceful reunification," he said.

The premier stressed that the Chinese Government and people have the greatest sincerity in striving for peaceful reunification, but it is also ready to check any separatist activities.

"We also have the strong determination and have made necessary preparations to resolutely check the activities for 'Taiwan independence' and all other separatist activities," he said.

The complete reunification of the motherland will surely become a reality at an early date with the joint efforts of all the Chinese people, Zhu said, adding that such a reunification will come on the basis of "peaceful reunification" and "one country, two systems" and the Eight-Point Proposal set forth by President Jiang.

About 1,500 people, including representatives from across the country and foreign diplomatic missions in Beijing attended the reception.

(Xinhua 10/01/2000)