Wang Zaixi, an ARATS vice chairman, revealed Chen's tentative schedule after calling on P.K. Chiang, chairman of the Taipei-based Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF).

Wang arrived in Taipei on Sunday and attended a symposium on China's modernization along with Chiang yesterday.

He said that Taiwan's experience in modernization can be used as a good reference for China's transformation in view of the identical cultural backgrounds.

Wang is also here to get an understanding about the preparations for the increased arrival of Chinese tourists beginning on July 18.

The resumption of talks between the SEF and the ARATS in June resulted the launch of the historic direct passenger charter flights across the Taiwan Strait for four days in every week starting on July 4.

Chiang and Chen had agreed to continue negotiations on other major issues, including cargo charter flights and eventually the regular direct commercial flight services and direct shipping cargo services.

Chen has accepted an invitation from Chiang to come to Taiwan for a formal visit and further talks.

Wang said that it would be more convenient for traveling for Chen when the weather conditions turn better after summer.

Chiang and officials at the government's Mainland Affairs Council said they understand that Chen will have tighter schedule when China is fully preparing for the upcoming Beijing Olympic Games set for next month.

The SEF and the ARATS are semiofficial organizations responsible for the cross-strait talks for the two sides in the absence of formal relations.