The government of Nepal firmly opposes the "proposed referendum" on joining the United Nations under the name of Taiwan and holds the view that it is an act of destabilization across the Taiwan Straits.

"It believes that such an attempt by the Taiwan Authorities under any name or by any means would only lead to tension in the region," the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a press statement issued Tuesday.

"The Government of Nepal has consistently followed the principled stand of 'One-China' policy and is firmly committed to upholding this principle," said the Ministry.

"Nepal wants to reiterate its position once again that the People's Republic of China is the sole and legitimate representative of China."

(Xinhua News Agency March 12, 2008)