Text of: 846-R683

The Committee recommends concurrence as amended as follows:

Readopt "United States--China Relations," p. 683 (with the following changes:)

The United Methodist Church:

1. Affirms the establishment of full diplomatic relations between the United States and the People's Republic of China as an important step toward mutual cooperation and understanding and toward world peace;

2. Advocates that the U.S. government, in accordance with the Joint Communique of December 1978, should continue to deal with the people of Taiwan on an unofficial basis;

3. Recognizes the necessity for China to continue it economic and social development and urges U.S. cooperation to that end within the context of Chinese independence and selfhood.

4. Feels the long-term basis of U.S. -- China relations should emphasize people to people, education, social and economic short-term or expedient military or strategic interests; expresses deep concern about the anti-Soviet rationale used to explain U.S. PRC relations; opposes the sale of U.S. military equipment to the PRC.

5. Endorses a peaceful approach to ending the long-standing conflict between the governments in the People's Republic of China and in Taiwan while recognizing that the resolution of the status of Taiwan is a matter for the Chinese people themselves People's Republic of China and for Taiwan and in that context supports the continued reduction and early cessation of U.S. arms sales in Taiwan;

6. Declares our continuing concern regarding the human rights of all people on both sides of the Taiwan Straights; and

7. Recognizes that U.S.-PRC relations have an important influence on the peace and stability of the Asian region, particularly in Southeast Asia; and urges both the United States, and the People's Republic of China, and Taiwan to seek peaceful means to contribute to the peace and stability of the region.

 

 

 

 

Info About Calendar Item 846-R683

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