TBO.com - TBO is Tampa Bay Online

Visit Planned By Chinese Official Sparks Protests

ADVERTISEMENT

The Tampa Tribune

Published: October 26, 2008

TAIPEI - Tens of thousands of opposition supporters marched through Taiwan's capital Saturday to protest an upcoming visit by a senior Chinese envoy, saying the trip was part of Chinese efforts to assert control over the self-ruled island.

The protesters, many wearing T-shirts bearing the slogan "Defend Taiwan," also accused Taiwanese President Ma Ying-jeou of making too many concessions and moving too fast in relaxing restrictions on trade and investment with China.

"The government has not done enough to protect our own interests when opening up to China," said protester Karin Hsieh.

The rally, organized by the opposition Democratic Progressive Party, blasted Ma's efforts to seek better ties with the mainland since he took office in May. His predecessor, the DPP's Chen Shui-bian, had pursued a stridently anti-China and pro-independence policy.

Chen joined Saturday's march, which snaked for several miles through Taipei.

Under Ma's initiative, Taiwan and China resumed talks in June after a hiatus of almost 10 years.
Taiwanese officials say the discussions with Chen Yunlin, chairman of China's Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait, will be limited to economic issues, including the introduction of direct cargo flights and an expansion of current weekend passenger flights to daily service.

On Friday, Ma said the talks would highlight the equality of Taiwan and China.

The Associated Press

Share this:

Loading Comments...

Email Print

ADVERTISEMENT