US Secretary of State Colin Powell said in Washington Tuesday
that the United States will adhere to the one-China policy and does
not support the independence of
Taiwan.??
Powell made the remarks at a lecture sponsored by the Heritage
Foundation, a think-tank in Washington.
"We adhere firmly to our one-China policy," Powell said, adding
that "We do not support Taiwan's independence and we oppose moves
by either side to unilaterally change the status quo."
He also said that the United States would try hard to keep peace
and stability in the Taiwan Straits.
"We do all we can to keep peace and ensure stability in the
Taiwan Straits," he said. "President (George W.) Bush has been
absolutely clear on this point."
On bilateral relations between the two countries, Powell said
that the United States pursues "a candid, constructive and
cooperative relationship with China in all spheres."
He also said that "it is American policy to integrate China into
Asian and global institutions."
(Xinhua News Agency March 3, 2004)