Taipei, June 30 (CNA) The European Union (EU) lauded the "constructive measures" Taiwan and China have taken with the signing of a historical trade agreement, saying Wednesday that the pact will contribute to regional stability.
"The European Union believes that the expansion of cross-strait economic relations has a potential also to benefit the development of its already significant trade and investment links in East Asia, " said Catherine Ashton, the EU High Representative for foreign affairs and security policy.
The Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA) , signed Tuesday in Chongqing, China, aims to liberalize cross-strait trade by reducing tariffs, relaxing trade regulations and allowing better market access.
The Taiwan government has said it hopes that the pact will boost the country's economy and employment and prevent it from being marginalized in the economic integration process in East Asia.
In a statement issued the day after the signing of the ECFA, Ashton reiterated that, in the context of the EU's one-China policy, the EU believes that the "Taiwan question" must be resolved through dialogue between all concerned parties.
Ashton said she appreciates and supports the efforts of both sides to find pragmatic solutions and peacefully develop relations. (By Chris Wang) enditem /pc