German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Jacques Chirac reaffirmed in Berlin on Tuesday their countries' constant and clear one-China policy.

They made the remarks at a joint press conference when asked to comment on Taiwan leader Chen Shui-bian's decision to cease the functioning of the "National Unification Council" (NUC) and the application of the "National Unification Guidelines."

Merkel, who hosted the first biennial meeting of the German and French cabinets after taking office in November, said she had stressed and confirmed Germany's stance of sticking to the one-China principle when talking recently with Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao by phone.

Germany will continue to follow this principle, Merkel added.

She said Germany's position on this matter was in line with that of the European Union's, adding that "we should do everything possible to maintain things quiet and peaceful" across the Taiwan Straits.

Chirac echoed her comments by saying that France would not change its stance and would clearly stick to the principle of "one country, two systems."

"We have not changed our position," Chirac added.

(Xinhua News Agency March 15, 2006)