The White House cautiously welcomed changes made by Taiwan in a referendum opposed by China. Chen Shui-bian, the President of Taiwan, announced last month his intention to hold a 'defensive referendum' next March. This referendum was intended to request China to withdraw its missiles near Taiwan. However, on Friday, Mr. Chen, in a softer tone, stated that if China does not withdraw its weapons from near Taiwan, a referendum on the deployment of ballistic missile defense by Taiwan will take place. The referendum will also assess voters' opinions on holding new negotiations with China. The U.S. Department of State indicated that Mr. Chen seems to have shown more flexibility in his statements regarding the referendum and welcomes negotiations with China.
U.S. Expresses Satisfaction with Taiwan's Flexibility - 2004-01-17
The U.S. has expressed cautious approval of Taiwan's recent changes regarding a referendum that aims to address Chinese missile presence. Taiwan's President Chen Shui-bian is considering a referendum to gauge public opinion on negotiations with China and the potential deployment of missile defenses. This development is significant as it reflects Taiwan's strategic posture and U.S. support amidst rising tensions with China.
👥 Key Players
📰 What Happened
Taiwan's President Chen Shui-bian announced a shift in the approach to a referendum regarding China's missile presence, signaling a willingness to negotiate. The U.S. expressed cautious approval of this flexibility.
- The referendum aims to gauge public opinion on missile defense and negotiations with China.
- Chen's softened tone indicates a potential de-escalation of tensions with China.
💡 Why It Matters
📚 Background
Taiwan has long been a point of contention between the U.S. and China, with Taiwan seeking to assert its sovereignty against Chinese claims.
🏷️ Entities Mentioned
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