Word: strait
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Dates: during 2000-2009
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Thursday, May. 17, 2001 Chen Shui-bian made history a year ago when he was elected President of Taiwan, ending 55 years of Kuomintang rule. He's now honing his role on the global stage, as a key player in the cross-Strait drama and with a visit later this month to Latin America via the U.S. Chen sat down last week in Taipei for an interview with TIME editors and reporters. Edited excerpts...
...plan for Taiwan? Chen: The decision was made because of China's increasing military budget and expanding military buildup, including missile deployment. It is also because China has continued to delay constructive and meaningful dialogue with Taiwan. Because of the threat from China, the military balance in the Taiwan Strait might be lost by the year 2005. That would not only affect Taiwan but would constitute a serious threat to the stability of the entire Asia-Pacific region. The missile threat from China is not just a 13-day threat like the Cuban missile crisis was 40 years...
...TIME: Do you see an opportunity for closer military cooperation with the U.S. and do you worry that Beijing's reaction could cause worse tension in the Taiwan Strait? Chen: Under the Taiwan Relations Act the U.S. has an obligation and responsibility to assist Taiwan's security. The recent decision on arms sales was made in line with that spirit. There is nothing unique about...
...TIME: And if those 23 million vote for independence, Taiwan would become independent? Chen: As I said in my inaugural speech last May, the conduct of cross-Strait relations must respect the free will of the people. I must act in accordance with our constitution in maintaining Taiwan's national security, dignity and sovereignty...
...controlled but others are beyond one's control. During my term in office I have pledged that I won't do anything to provoke the PRC, nor do I seek to anger them. We are genuinely peace-loving people and wish to promote long-lasting stability across the Strait...