No hope for independence in Taiwan

I would like to respond to the letter ``Taiwan's Move Toward Independence,'' Dec. 13, since it is misleading to readers.

The author makes the erroneous claim that there is a ``growing visibility of the demand for formal independence'' on Taiwan. To the contrary, the past several elections all indicate that independence does not have majority support.

In the most recent election, on Dec. 3 for governor of Taiwan and mayors of Taipei and Kaohsiung cities, the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) purposely downplayed its pro-independence stand, at least publicly, when it realized that it was losing support.

Unification, not independence, is a mutual cross-straits objective. We insist, however, that it will only occur under a free and democratic system of government, and under peaceful means.

Before unification, the Republic of China on Taiwan will continue to play an active role in the global community by participating in international organizations whenever possible.

Taiwan has the ability to make a positive and significant contribution to the international community based on its wealth of experience and knowledge, especially in the economic sector.

It would be foolish to jeopardize Taiwan's past accomplishments and future by declaring independence. After all, mainland China has never renounced its threat of the use of force against Taiwan. Eddy Tsai, Boston Director, Taiwan's Coordination Council for North American Affairs

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