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