The Anti-Secession Law provides a strong legal basis for peaceful reunification with Taiwan, according to local groups.

The law was passed unanimously on Monday, at the third session of the 10th National People's Congress.

"We can clearly see from the provisions of the bill that the Anti-Secession Law's aim is peace and not war. The bill seeks to safeguard the sovereignty and the unity of our nation by peaceful means," Vice-Chairman of the Hong Kong Region China Peaceful Reunification Association Michael Yip told reporters at a seminar yesterday.

Yip said the bill seeks to minimize cross-Straits tensions and enhance stability in the region.

"The Anti-Secession Law is sacred, and abides by the standards of international laws. It represents the spirit of our nation, and serves to demonstrate that there is only one China in the world, with Taiwan as an integral part of it," he said.

Yip stressed that the implementation of the bill will bring further stability and the improvement of cross-Straits relations.

"The law is conducive to the peaceful development of China, and will surely be supported by the international community and Chinese people around the world,

"At the same time, the Taiwan issue is an internal affair of China, and warrants no foreign interference. It is a manifestation of Chinese sovereignty," he stressed.

Meanwhile, the Kowloon Federation of Associations maintained that the passing of the Anti-Secession Law is a testament to the determination of China to achieve peaceful reunification with Taiwan.

The passing of this law will clear up any uncertainties about Beijing's position on the Taiwan issue. The mainland government has worked hard for 20 years to achieve peaceful reunification with Taiwan, and the Anti-Secession Law will provide a legal foundation for its previous work and future policies, the organization said.

The bill also helps maintain the status quo in cross-Straits relations, and reduces the possibility of military conflict, as it sets out clear policies on peaceful reunification, the federation said.

The new law makes it clear to the Taiwan people that the mainland will do everything in its power to safeguard their lives and property in times of crises, while endeavouring to avoid war, it added.

(China Daily HK Edition March 16, 2005)