(Xinhua)
Updated: 2008-01-14 22:28

Chen Bingde, chief of General Staff of the People's Liberation Army (PLA), said Monday that China hopes the United States does not send wrong signal to the "Taiwan independence" forces.

Chen, a member of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks in talks with Timothy Keating, commander-in-chief of the US Pacific Command.

The Taiwan question is the most important and sensitive issue in Sino-US relations, Chen said, noting that Taiwan leader Chen Shui-bian had stubbornly intensified secessionist activities, such as a proposed referendum on Taiwan's membership in the United Nations. Such moves seriously threatened peace and stability across the Straits and the mutual benefits of China and the United States.

Chen urged the United States to be aware of the risk of such activities, to cut off its military contact with Taiwan, and to stop weapon sales.

"The Chinese side appreciates the US government's adherence to one-China policy, and its opposition to the Taiwan authorities' efforts at referendum on Taiwan's UN membership," Chen said.

Keating responded the United States would firmly adhere to the one-China policy, and the Pacific headquarters of the US military would endeavor to guarantee peace and stability in the area.

Keating arrived in Beijing Sunday for a four-day visit including stops in Shanghai and the southern city of Guangzhou. He is scheduled to meet with officials from the Guangzhou Military Area Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army and visit military institutions and units. It is his second China visit since May.