New PRC Law on Ethnic Unity Takes Effect; Liang Wen-chieh Advises Caution for Taiwanese Working in Mainland

(CNA) Taipei, July 1 - The Communist Party of China's (CPC) "Law on Promoting Ethnic Unity and Progress" took effect today. Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) Deputy Minister Liang Wen-chieh stated that the law's concepts are vague and that "supporting Taiwan's maintenance of the status quo" could be construed as a crime. He advised Taiwanese citizens working in the mainland to be cautious, and for civil servants to "avoid going there if not necessary."

Liang Wen-chieh made these remarks before attending a seminar titled "Impact and Response to the PRC's Law on Promoting Ethnic Unity and Progress on Taiwan," held this morning at the National Taiwan University Alumni Hall by the Taiwan Asia Exchange Foundation.

Liang Wen-chieh said that the law uses many uncertain and very vague legal concepts, such as "what constitutes undermining ethnic unity and progress."

He stated that whether supporting Taiwan's maintenance of the status quo, supporting the continued existence of the Republic of China, or supporting the non-subordination of the People's Republic of China and the Republic of China to each other, could be construed as undermining ethnic unity under these vague concepts and lead to criminal charges.

Liang Wen-chieh emphasized that many other countries are beginning to worry about this issue, including in Japan and the United States, where there are many activities supporting Xinjiang and Tibet. He believes the law's introduction is intended for cross-border suppression, "therefore, this law is something we must closely observe."

Liang Wen-chieh believes that Taiwanese citizens making short-term trips to the mainland for tourism "might be alright"; however, for those working or residing there long-term, more caution is advised. From the government's perspective, it is recommended that individuals with civil servant status "best not go if not necessary." Based on past cases of civil servants being interrogated in the mainland, they are likely to be targeted. (Editor: Chen Kai-yu) 1150701

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