MADRID, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Representatives of overseas Chinese in Spain have strongly condemned the Taiwan authorities for proposing a referendum on its bid for UN membership in the name of Taiwan.

The secessionist attempt by Chen Shui-bian, the leader of the Taiwan authorities, shows a total disregard for the fundamental interests of the Chinese nation, said a statement issued recently by the representatives from the Council for the Promotion of China's Peaceful Reunification in Spain and the Spanish Chinese Chamber of Industry and Commerce.

The dangerous move, which is in open defiance of cross-Strait relations, was sure to be opposed by all of the Chinese people around the world, they said.

They reiterated their support for the Chinese government's stance on this issue and pledged to make contributions toward the peaceful reunification of China.

Although living abroad, overseas Chinese have an obligation to safeguard China's sovereignty and territorial integrity, they said.

The Taiwan authorities would bear all the consequences if it obstinately insists on the referendum for UN membership, said the statement.