"Technical issues involved in the matter could be discussed by trade organizations of both sides first and then be confirmed by the authorities," said Tang Yi, deputy director of the economic bureau of the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, at a regular press conference.

He urged Taiwan authorities to put the interests of Taiwanese farmers first and give green light to trade organizations to the mainland to discuss the technical details as soon as possible.

"So that Taiwan farmers could benefit from trade with the mainland at an early date," Tang added.

Cooperation in agriculture and the sale of Taiwan farm produce on the mainland, offered by the mainland, has been a hot topic across the Taiwan Straits these days.

Tang said the mainland has completed necessary preparations for the import of more than 10 kinds of Taiwan fruits under zero tariff, and will also provide convenience to the sale of Taiwan fruits in custom clearance, product inspection and quarantine.

He also said as quick transit is important in fruit trade, the two sides should realize direct flights for farm produce trade through negotiations between non-governmental organizations.

(Xinhua News Agency June 1, 2005)