Beijing May Boycott Taiwan's APEC Envoy; DPP initiates UN Bid Parade

It is speculated that Beijing may object to the presence of former vice premier Tsai Ying-wen as Taiwan's special envoy to the APEC leaders’ summit in Sydney next month.

Taiwan’s President Chen Shui-bian said, “China’s oppression has been constant. If [Beijing's opposition to Tsai's participation at the APEC summit] is true, it would demonstrate that China’s suppression of Taiwan has nothing to do with whether you are a man or a woman.”
Taiwanese presidents have been barred from attending APEC summits due to objections from the PRC. As a result, Taiwan’s president has to appoint a representative to attend the summits on his behalf.

Chen did not confirm whether he had appointed Tsai but stressed that Taiwan must not give up simply because of China’s oppression. He also urged Taiwan’s government to adhere to principles and strive for acceptance in the international community.

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Regarding the development of Taiwan’s bid to join the UN, the Democratic Progressive Party plans a series of activities to solicit support from around the world for the nation's bid to join the world body under the name “Taiwan,” including a massive parade in Kaohsiung on Sept. 15. On that day, the party hopes to attract 50,000 people to the parade in Kaohsiung.

The DPP Central Standing Committee also announced that it will seek 1.2 million endorsement signatures before Oct. 15 to underscore Taiwan’s determination to enter the UN as a full member.


(Excerpts from Taipei Times)