US Secretary of State Colin Powell said in Washington on Tuesday that the
United States will adhere to the one-China policy and does not support the
independence of Taiwan.
Powell made the remarks in a speech delivered at a lecture sponsored by the
Heritage Foundation, a think-tank in Washington.
"We adhere firmly to our one-China policy," the US Secretary of State 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 Bush has been absolutely clear on this point."
On the 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."
