Taiwan's Pro-Independence Parties Defeated
Taiwan's pro-independence parties lost a hotly contested legislative election Saturday a defeat that might reduce the risk of a conflict with China but also continue the political gridlock that has paralyzed one of Asia's youngest democracies. The loss was a big blow to President Chen Shui-bian, who tirelessly campaigned for candidates and promised to use his control of parliament to revise the constitution and push for a new Taiwanese identity pledges that unnerved China. Chinese leaders dislike Chen because he refuses to accept their goal of unification. Taiwan has had loose ties with the mainland just 100 miles to the west throughout much of China's history. The Communists, who took over China in 1949, say Taiwan must unify eventually or endure a punishing attack.
Posted by: Fred 2004-12-11 |