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TAIPEI, Dec 26 (AFP) - Taiwan's China policy-maker has decided to extend direct links between two offshore islands and the mainland for another year, officials said Wednesday.

The cabinet-level mainland affairs council in January launched the so-called "three mini-links" of direct trade, transport and postal services between Taiwan's outlying Kinmen and Matsu islets with selected Fujian ports on a trial basis for one year.

The decision was made despite escalating smuggling, a lack of regular shipping and restrictions and restrictions on mainland tourists visiting the islands.

The problems were due to the lack of bilateral negotiation, the council said in a statement.

The decision to extend the direct links "demonstrates Taiwan's resolve to further improve cross-strait relations", it said.

Taiwanese authorities have said they would open full direct links with the mainland if the mini-links proved successful.

Taiwan and China split in 1949 following a civil war but bilateral business activities flourish after Taipei allowed civilian exchanges with the mainland from the end of 1980s. 

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