Mainland spokesperson warns Taiwan against Olympics "referendum"

A Chinese mainland spokesperson on Wednesday warned Taiwan against holding a so-called "referendum on a proper name" it would use at the Olympics, saying it would only undermine the interests of the people on the island.

Ma Xiaoguang, spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council [Photo: meldingcloud.com.cn]

Ma Xiaoguang, spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, stressed that the "Olympic model" was the principle that had been observed by international sports organizations as well as sports persons from the mainland and Taiwan.

Under the model, established under International Olympic Committee (IOC) rules, the island takes part in the Olympic Games under the name "Chinese Taipei."

However, some political forces on the island are seeking a so-called "referendum" for the island to join the 2020 Tokyo Olympics "under a proper name," which is essentially a denial of the one-China principle.

"A very small number of separatist elements advocating 'Taiwan independence' on the island, with the connivance of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) administration, have disregarded the stern warnings issued by the IOC and the East Asian Olympic Committee, and insisted on seeking the 'referendum'," Ma said. "The move will only damage the interests of Taiwan residents, particularly Taiwan athletes."

The spokesperson reiterated opposition to "Taiwan independence" separatist activities in any form.

"The mainland and Taiwan belong to the one and same China, and Taiwan is an inalienable part of China. Taiwan has never been and will never be a country," Ma said, adding "Taiwan independence" will lead nowhere.