Taiwan’s Chen scraps unification pledges

[EuroObserver]

By Kathrin Hille in Taipei
Published: February 27 2006 10:25 | Last updated: February 27 2006 10:25
http://news.ft.com/cms/s/83573aa2-a779-11da-85bc-0000779e2340.html

Chen Shui Bian TaiwanTaiwan’s President Chen Shui-bian on Monday abandoned token commitments to future unification with China, ignoring US pressure to avoid angering Beijing by taking steps that could move the island towards formal independence.

Mr Chen scrapped the National Unification Council (NUC), which was in charge of working towards unification with China, together with a set of guidelines declaring unification with the mainland a long-term national goal. Mr Chen said the NUC has “ceased functioning” while its guidelines would stop applying. That he avoided using the word “abolish” was thought to be a compromise gesture to the US.

Mr Chen also said he would not “repeat” the pledges - known as the “Five Noes” - including not to touch upon the council and its guidelines.

His open defiance of the US indicates that Washington will find it increasingly difficult to keep Mr Chen in check during his last two years in power.

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[rodeodance]

1. looks like we will have to bully another nation.-

....His open defiance of the US indicates that Washington will find it increasingly difficult to keep Mr Chen in check during his last two years in power.