The three links -- transport, trade and postal services -- should be established at an early date because they would benefit both Taiwan's economic development and the interests of Taiwan compatriots, Qian told a national conference on Taiwan affairs.

"Since the issue of the three direct links is a purely economic affair, related talks can leave out the political meaning of one China,'' the vice-premier said at the three-day meeting.

He added that the mainland will actively push for implementation of the links and won't let political disputes affect and disrupt cross-Straits economic cooperation.

Qian also expressed his hope that the Taiwan authorities will no longer create hurdles to cross-Straits transport, trade and postal services and act for the benefit of Taiwanese people.

The remarks by the vice-premier indicate Beijing's growing pragmatism and flexibility in dealing with cross-Straits economic and trade issues, although it stands firm on political ones.

Qian told the meeting that Beijing will stick to the one-China principle and oppose all separatist attempts to promote Taiwan independence.

The one-China principle cherished by Beijing holds that both Taiwan and the mainland are part of China.

But it has never been accepted by Taiwan leader Chen Shuibian from the pro-independence Democratic Progressive Party.

Cross-Straits negotiations can be resumed if Taipei accepts the one-China principle and the 1992 consensus, which orally commits both sides of the Straits to the principle, according to Qian.

The vice-premier also lauded the mainland's achievements in developing cross-Straits relations and in fighting pro-independence moves over the past year.

He said cross-Straits economic ties and exchanges in cultural and educational fields were greatly strengthened in the past year mainly due to the mainland efforts.

Meanwhile, the mainland's opposition to independence activities also won support from the Chinese people, including Taiwan compatriots, as well as the international community, Qian said.

He stressed that the failure of these separatist moves has proven that pro-independence attempts defy the will of the people.

On August 3, Chen created new tensions in cross-Straits ties by preaching that "each side (of the Taiwan Straits) is a country''.

Chen also said that he backed legislation on a referendum on Taiwan's future and destiny at an appropriate occasion.

Beijing fired off a strong warning to Chen in response to his pro-independence moves, saying the separatist attempt may lead the island to disaster.

"But the basic pattern in cross-Straits relationships and development trends remains unchanged despite the complicated situation in the past year,'' Qian said confidently.

(China Daily January 16, 2003)