Overseas Chinese communities have strongly condemned Taiwan leader Chen Shui-bian for his so-called "four wants and one no" secessionist remarks on Sunday.

Chen said at a gathering on Sunday that he wanted independence, a new constitution, development, and new names for local firms that use the word "China" in their title.

The Chinese Chamber of Commerce, Thailand, made a statement on Friday that Chen attempted to use the undisguised secessionist remarks to divert public attention from his corruption cases. His remarks are damaging to the well-being of Taiwan compatriots, the stability across the Taiwan Straits and peace in the Asia-Pacific region, the statement said.

On the same day, the Tio Chew Association of Thailand said in a statement that Chen's "Taiwan independence" remarks are in defiance of the Chinese mainland and are trumpeted to create strains in cross-Strait relations.

The statement said that Chen's remarks have proved that he is a downright faithless politician. And "it is our common desire to realize the peaceful national reunification as soon as possible."

Wang Zhimin, chairman of China Council for the Promotion of Peaceful National Reunification in Thailand said, "With the utmost sincerity and every possible effort on our part, we firmly support the Chinese government to promote peaceful development of cross-Strait relations, which would lead to the realization of peaceful national reunification."

He added in a statement that the council would oppose any form of activities at any name aimed at splitting Taiwan from China.

Luxembourg-China Economic and Cultural Exchanges Association also made a statement on Thursday lashing out at Chen's "Taiwan independence" remarks, noting that Taiwan has always been and will always remain an inalienable part of the Chinese territory. It further stated that it is impossible for Taiwan secessionists to separate Taiwan from China.

The China Council for the Promotion of Peaceful National Reunification in Germany made a statement on Wednesday that the overseas Chinese population in Germany is firmly opposed to Chen's "Taiwan independence" remarks and secessionist activities, and supports the territorial integrity and sovereignty of China.

Editor: Donald