Taiwan opposition chief hits peace pact with China

The leader of Taiwan's opposition, Tsai Ing-wen, has criticized President Ma Ying-jeou for hinting at peace with China.

On Monday, Ma said he would consider the possibility of peace talks with China within a decade.

Tsai, who leads the Democratic Progressive Party, indicated on Wednesday that such a treaty could not be expected to uphold Taiwan's sovereignty. She expressed concern that the proposal might lead to unification with mainland China as defined in China's law banning any move to split the country.

Tsai is aiming to win the presidential election, next January.
Relations with the mainland are expected to be the biggest issue, and discussions on a possible peace treaty could influence voters.

Tsai said if political talks take place, Beijing's concept of One China should not be a precondition, and that any change to Taiwan's status quo should be decided by public referendum. She also insisted that China's military threat be removed.

Thursday, October 20, 2011 02:14 +0900 (JST)