Research company takes action over 'Taiwan independence'

The company where the nephew of diehard 'Taiwan independence' separatist Liu Shyh-fang previously worked has said in a statement that Liu had been removed from all positions in both Taiwan and the Chinese mainland since April 7.

Chen Binhua, spokesman for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, said on Wednesday that the mainland will never allow diehard 'Taiwan independence' separatists or their relatives to invest or conduct business for profit on the mainland.

He made the remarks in response to the dismissal of Liu's nephew Yen Wen-chun from Long Time Technology Co Ltd in Taiwan and its mainland subsidiaries, including one in Shanggao county, Jiangxi province. Liu, who heads Taiwan's 'interior affairs department', was added to the mainland's list of diehard 'Taiwan independence' separatists in January.

"We will never allow those who support 'Taiwan independence' and undermine cross-Strait relations to profit on the mainland while engaging in harmful actions," Chen said.

He stressed that 'Taiwan independence' undermines peace and stability and harms the interests of people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait, describing it as a "dead end".

The punitive measures target only a very small number of separatists and do not affect the vast majority of Taiwan compatriots and businesses, Chen added. He said the mainland will continue to welcome and support Taiwan compatriots and enterprises in putting down roots and developing on the mainland.

According to the statement issued by the company's branch in Shanggao county, all employees are required to avoid any political activities that could undermine cross-Strait peace and stability. It also pledged that company resources will not be used, directly or indirectly, to support individuals or organizations that advocate 'Taiwan independence' or violate the one-China principle.

The company, which specializes in the research and development of battery materials, is headquartered in Taiwan and operates subsidiaries on the mainland.

Hong Kong media reported in February that Liu's relative had been conducting business on the mainland and had provided Liu with political donations