Taipei, July 22 (CNA) President Lee Teng-hui said on Thursday that the "state-to-state" theory will contribute to relations across the Taiwan Strait in the long run.
Lee made the remarks while meeting with Francisco Tatad, chairman of the Philippine Senate Foreign relations Committee.
In a recent interview with Germany's Deutsche Welle radio station, Lee defined Taiwan-mainland China ties as special "state-to-state" relations, sparking furious reaction from Beijing.
Lee told the Philippine parliamentary leader that his definition is aimed at explaining the Republic of China's status and rights from historical, legal and realistic viewpoints.
"I'm convinced that the 'state-to-state' theory has positive meanings to cross-strait relations," Lee said, adding that he hopes mainland China will accept this concept.
The president went on to say that he fully understands it won't be easy for mainland authorities to immediately accept the "state-to-state" theory.
Nevertheless, Lee said he believes that so long as Beijing leaders can calmly think about the theory, they will be able to understand its true meaning.
Stressing that the "state-to-state" theory is conducive to the development of cross-strait relations, Lee said he hopes mainland leaders will gradually come to terms with the concept.
Lee reiterated that the ROC can never agree to Beijing's claim that the ROC is a local-level government under its jurisdiction. "Cross-strait relations will make headway only when the two sides can stand on an equal footing and treat each other with respect," he added.
For his part, Tatad said he understands the implication of Lee's "state-to-state" definition, adding that he hopes the Philippine government will review its "one China" policy and work out appropriate measures to cope with the "state-to-state" theory in developing relations with both sides of the Taiwan Strait.