Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)
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Question 71: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs the political situation in Taiwan; the position of his Department with regard to recognition of Taiwan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3911/07]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758 of 25 October 1971 recognised the Government of the People's Republic of China as the sole representative of China. Although Taiwan continues to exercise autonomy and to term itself 'The Republic of China', this is not recognised in international law. Taiwan's official status is that of a Province of China. In common with most Member States of the UN, Ireland recognises the Government of the PRC as the sole legitimate government of China. Ireland does not maintain diplomatic relations with Taiwan and there is no inter-Governmental contact between the two sides. A Taipei Representative Office, established in Dublin in 1988, has a representative function in relation to economic and cultural promotion, but no diplomatic or political status. The relationship with the PRC is by far the most important domestic and foreign political issue for the leadership and people of Taiwan. It is at the heart of Taiwanese party politics, with the current government favouring greater independence, while the Opposition Coalition favours closer links with the mainland.

Cross-China Straits relations are also a top priority for the PRC, with particular emphasis on maintaining the one-China policy in all international fora, and the ultimate reunification of Taiwan with the mainland. Ireland, together with our EU partners, has consistently stressed the importance of harmonious cross-Straits relations to the peace, stability and development of the PRC, Taiwan and the region in general. The adoption by the PRC in March 2005 of an anti-secession law concerning Taiwan which, though asserting that China would do its utmost to achieve a peaceful reunification of the country, also contained a military threat should Taiwan seek to declare independence, was much criticised by the international community, including the EU. Equally, the EU also expressed its concerns regarding provocative remarks made by the Taiwanese leader in early 2006. The economic relationship and interdependence between the China and Taiwan is expected to expand and deepen in the coming years. China is Taiwan's number one export market and Taiwan is one of the mainland's biggest investors. It is to be hoped that these economic relationships will help ease political tensions across the China Straits in the longer-term.