[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 77 (Monday, June 13, 2005)]
[Senate]
[Page S6399]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                            TAIWAN AND CHINA

  Mr. CRAIG. Mr. President, in recent weeks Lien Chan of Taiwan 
undertook the task of meeting with key leaders in the People's Republic 
of China. This was no small task as the gulf between the two sides is 
much wider than the Strait of Formosa.
  The substantive accomplishments of Chairman Lien's recent mission to 
mainland China surely put to rest any accusations that the event was 
little more than a symbolic gesture. In fact, the practical results 
should have a very positive impact on cross-strait trade, tourism, and 
culture if momentum can be maintained.
  First and foremost, an essential mechanism of dialogue has been 
established, overcoming obstacles of politics and history. The 
precedent has been set. Further talks between mainland China and Taiwan 
should follow as a matter of course, to address a range of issues of 
mutual concern, provided there is enough goodwill on both sides. 
However, I think it is important to note that these meetings did not 
include elected officials of the Government of Taiwan. Although these 
initial talks were an important step, it is essential that future talks 
between Taiwan and China include the rightly elected leaders of Taiwan 
for there to be any real substance and hope for change.
  Second, it seems that certain basic principles have been addressed 
that should help Taipei and Beijing re-open negotiations on an equal 
footing, even though they still disagree on the meaning of ``one 
China'' and what Taiwan's international status is. The basic concept of 
ending hostility and promoting cooperation has been embraced. Both 
sides believe it is a mistake to let small details create a deadlock 
forever, and that is a key principle for progress.
  Third, even people who insist that all talk is meaningless unless it 
leads to policy changes should be able to admit that eliminating and/or 
reducing trade barriers on farm products, like fruit, is a concrete 
achievement. Both sides gain from such actions, and it sets a good 
example for further progress later on down the road.
  Fourth, it is to be commended by any free society when a tightly 
controlled country like mainland China agrees to negotiate to allow its 
people to tour a democracy like Taiwan. Who knows what the long-term 
implications may be, when those who know few liberties are one day 
allowed to visit and see for themselves what real freedom feels and 
looks like.
  Finally, even the most humorless critics surely must admit that 
``panda bear diplomacy'' still trumps political stalemate and 
hostility. Critics can call it symbolism, but even symbolism has 
definite practical value when it lifts spirits and relaxes tensions.
  History will record that this mission was blessed with genuine 
substance as well as great potential in building bridges where none 
existed before.

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