Taiwan appeals for reconciliation with China

Taiwan appeals for reconciliation with China

TAIWAN: In his first direct address to people in China, Taiwanese
President Chen Shui-bian on Thursday urged Chinese leaders to
negotiate with his government and promote closer trade ties.

As a former opposition leader, Chen had advocated Taiwan's
formal independence. But he has softened his stand since taking
office last year, saying Taiwan will not pursue independence
unless China attacks.

China deeply distrusts Chen and refuses to deal with his new
government, and the two sides remain locked in a dispute about
Taiwan's political status.

The sides split amid civil war in 1949, and China claims that
Taiwan is part of its territory. Chinese leaders want Taiwan to
acknowledge it's part of China before talks begin. --AP