Representatives of overseas Chinese in Vietnam are strongly opposed to the "Taiwan independence" agenda of the Chen Shui-bian authorities to cut Taiwan from China.

All people interviewed by Xinhua affirmed that "Taiwan independence" neither leads to peace nor stability. They said that Taiwan is a part of China, and reunification of the motherland will boost its socio-economic development.

"According to the history of China, Taiwan belongs to China. Therefore, 'Taiwan independence' is impossible," said Liu Jianmao, head of the Renyi Tang Unicorn, Lion and Dragon Dance Troupe in HoChi Minh City's District 5.

"It's certain that we will realize the reunification of our country," he noted.

Li Sida, chairman of the Chongzheng Association of Countrymen, echoed Liu's view, saying "Chinese people everywhere always wish peace and stability in their motherland."

An ordinary overseas Chinese, Wang Guang at 544 Alley, Ham Tu Street, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City, emphasized, "Like Hong Kong and Macao, it is fair and reasonable for Taiwan to return to the mainland. Nothing to debate."

On May 17, the Office for Taiwan Affairs under the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China and the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council were authorized to issue a statement on current cross-Straits relations. The statement said that the Chen Shui-bian authorities are blamed for the present tense relations across the Taiwan Straits, and that the Chinese people will never put up with "Taiwan independence."