The Panama-China Friendship Association said Saturday that the Anti-Secession Law will prevent the secession of Taiwan from China and contribute to China's reunification.

Oyden Ortega, chairman of the association, said the law will be conducive to China's peaceful reunification process and help maintain stability across the Taiwan Straits and defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity.

In a letter to the office of a Chinese trade mission, Ortega said the law will guarantee the fundamental interests of the Chinese people.

The association was founded in 2001 with about 400 members, including former Panamanian president and former foreign minister.

(Xinhua News Agency March 20, 2005)