After almost sixty years, China is still unable to let go of Taiwan despite overwhelming international recognition of Taiwan’s sovereignty. Yet after ongoing clashes, the Chinese government has now opened up talks with Taiwan. Although dialogue is no yet set, the Chinese President Hu Jintao has expressed his interest in holding talks “as early as possible,” a sign that China and Taiwan could at least have a healthier relationship. Many feel that these talks should address the topic of commute between Taiwan and China, in light of current restrictions on travel that require office approval for traveling to Taiwan from China.
In a gesture of good will, President Hu offered Tawian ruling Kuamintang Party Chairan Wu Poh-hsiung the opportunity to attend the upcoming Beijing Olympics, which Wu accepted. This controversial offer now involves a Taiwanese government official attending an event that caused protests around the world in relation to China’s controversial treatment of Taiwan.
The meeting between Hu and Wu comes soon after the May 20th inauguration of Ma Yin-jeou as Taiwan’s new president, who is being more cautious about perusing independence than the previous president, Chen Shui-bian. While he does not seek complete independence, he is pushing for closer economic ties—particularly smart in a time where China’s economy is booming and there is more to be gained than lost.
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