The China Petroleum and Natural Gas Corporation has determined to list the Chaidamu Basin as a major area for China 's oil gas exploration , and has planned to achieve an annual oil gas output of 3 million tons , and an annual output reaching 10 million tons by the year 2005 .

<org>The China Petroleum and Natural Gas Corporation</org> has determined to list <loc>the Chaidamu Basin</loc> as a major area for <gpe>China</gpe> 's oil gas exploration , and has planned to achieve an annual oil gas output of <quantity>3 million tons</quantity> , and an annual output reaching <quantity>10 million tons</quantity> by <date>the year 2005</date> .


People in economic circles pointed out that the rich oil gas resources in the Chaidamu Basin would lay a good material foundation for shifting China 's energy industry center to the west .

People in economic circles pointed out that the rich oil gas resources in <loc>the Chaidamu Basin</loc> would lay a good material foundation for shifting <gpe>China</gpe> 's energy industry center to the west .


-LRB- End -RRB-


Xinhua News Agency , Beijing , September 1st

<org>Xinhua News Agency</org> , <gpe>Beijing</gpe> , <date>September 1st</date>


With the aim of promoting Chinese culture internationally , the China Traditional Martial Arts Imperial College and the China Traditional Literature Imperial College were established today in Beijing .

With the aim of promoting <norp>Chinese</norp> culture internationally , <org>the China Traditional Martial Arts Imperial College</org> and <org>the China Traditional Literature Imperial College</org> were established <date>today</date> in <gpe>Beijing</gpe> .


The above two imperial colleges have been established with the approval of the National Education Committee and the Beijing Adult Education Bureau , under the concern and support of the National Physical Education Committee , the Cultural Department , the China Martial Arts Academy , the China Art Academy , and under the proposing and funding of Mr. Zhiren Li , a famous entrepreneur , calligraphy and painting master , and art collector from Taiwan .

The above <cardinal>two</cardinal> imperial colleges have been established with the approval of <org>the National Education Committee</org> and <org>the Beijing Adult Education Bureau</org> , under the concern and support of <org>the National Physical Education Committee</org> , <org>the Cultural Department</org> , <org>the China Martial Arts Academy</org> , <org>the China Art Academy</org> , and under the proposing and funding of Mr. <person>Zhiren Li</person> , a famous entrepreneur , calligraphy and painting master , and art collector from <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> .


Mr. Zhiren Li has the title of a " calligraphy magnate " in Taiwan .

Mr. <person>Zhiren Li</person> has the title of a " calligraphy magnate " in <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> .


In recent years , he has successively invested 10,000,000 New Taiwan Dollars to build hundreds of elementary schools in the old , sparse , frontier , and poor areas of China 's mainland , and has received praise from people here and abroad .

In <date>recent years</date> , he has successively invested <money>10,000,000 New Taiwan Dollars</money> to build <cardinal>hundreds</cardinal> of elementary schools in the old , sparse , frontier , and poor areas of <gpe>China</gpe> 's mainland , and has received praise from people here and abroad .


On August 30th , Jiaxuan Tang , vice minister of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs , and Haojing Song , special envoy of the Korean government and vice minister of the Foreign Affairs Ministry held talks in Beijing , exchanging ideas concerning establishing a solid mechanism for ensuring peace on the Korean peninsula .

On <date>August 30th</date> , <person>Jiaxuan Tang</person> , vice minister of <org>the Ministry of Foreign Affairs</org> , and <person>Haojing Song</person> , special envoy of the <norp>Korean</norp> government and vice minister of <org>the Foreign Affairs Ministry</org> held talks in <gpe>Beijing</gpe> , exchanging ideas concerning establishing a solid mechanism for ensuring peace on the <norp>Korean</norp> peninsula .


During talks , the two parties expressed satisfaction with joint efforts made by the two countries of Korea and China in maintaining the armistice , and safeguarding peace and safety on the Korean peninsula in the last forty - some years as one of the signing parties of the Korea Armistice Agreement .

During talks , the <cardinal>two</cardinal> parties expressed satisfaction with joint efforts made by the <cardinal>two</cardinal> countries of <gpe>Korea</gpe> and <gpe>China</gpe> in maintaining the armistice , and safeguarding peace and safety on the <norp>Korean</norp> peninsula in <date>the last forty - some years</date> as one of the signing parties of <law>the Korea Armistice Agreement</law> .


The two parties believed that , due to changes in current international relations and the situation on the Korean peninsula , it was necessary to establish a new peace - guarantee mechanism on the peninsula .

The <cardinal>two</cardinal> parties believed that , due to changes in current international relations and the situation on the <norp>Korean</norp> peninsula , it was necessary to establish a new peace - guarantee mechanism on the peninsula .


Korea announced negotiation plans concerning establishing a new peace - guarantee mechanism on the Korean peninsula , and specific measures already taken by the Korean side of recalling the Korean delegation to the Korean Military Armistice Commission and setting up the Panmunjom Representative Office of the Korean People 's Army as the negotiatory organization , etc .

<gpe>Korea</gpe> announced negotiation plans concerning establishing a new peace - guarantee mechanism on the <norp>Korean</norp> peninsula , and specific measures already taken by the <norp>Korean</norp> side of recalling the <norp>Korean</norp> delegation to <org>the Korean Military Armistice Commission</org> and setting up <org>the Panmunjom Representative Office of the Korean People 's Army</org> as the negotiatory organization , etc .


The Korean side emphasized that , the above mentioned measures were actions of goodwill .

The <norp>Korean</norp> side emphasized that , the above mentioned measures were actions of goodwill .


It aimed to create actual conditions for establishing a peace - guarantee mechanism .


The Chinese side expressed that , it would pay attention to the development of the situation on the Korean peninsula and sincerely hoped that the situation on the Korean peninsula would be relaxed and stabilized .

The <norp>Chinese</norp> side expressed that , it would pay attention to the development of the situation on the <norp>Korean</norp> peninsula and sincerely hoped that the situation on the <norp>Korean</norp> peninsula would be relaxed and stabilized .


Maintaining the peace and stability of the Korean peninsula accords benefits to all countries in this region , and is also beneficial to the peace and safety of Asia and the world .

Maintaining the peace and stability of the <norp>Korean</norp> peninsula accords benefits to all countries in this region , and is also beneficial to the peace and safety of <loc>Asia</loc> and the world .


The Chinese side holds that problems related to the Korean peninsula should be solved through consultation and dialogue between each party concerned .

The <norp>Chinese</norp> side holds that problems related to the <norp>Korean</norp> peninsula should be solved through consultation and dialogue between each party concerned .


Considering the requirements of the Korean side , and based on the current situation that the Korean side has recalled the Korean side 's delegation to the Military Armistice Commission and that the Military Armistice Commission has actually stopped operating , the Chinese government decided to recall the delegation of the Chinese People 's Volunteer Army to the Military Armistice Commission .

Considering the requirements of the <norp>Korean</norp> side , and based on the current situation that the <norp>Korean</norp> side has recalled the <norp>Korean</norp> side 's delegation to <org>the Military Armistice Commission</org> and that <org>the Military Armistice Commission</org> has actually stopped operating , the <norp>Chinese</norp> government decided to recall the delegation of <org>the Chinese People 's Volunteer Army</org> to <org>the Military Armistice Commission</org> .


The Chinese side hopes that each party concerned continues to make constructive efforts to relax the situation on the Korean peninsula .

The <norp>Chinese</norp> side hopes that each party concerned continues to make constructive efforts to relax the situation on the <norp>Korean</norp> peninsula .


-LRB- End -RRB-


Xinhua News Agency , Brisbane , April 23 , by reporter Fa'en Wang

<org>Xinhua News Agency</org> , <gpe>Brisbane</gpe> , <date>April 23</date> , by reporter <person>Fa'en Wang</person>


Chinese rising star Li Luo broke through the stiff opposition of gymnasts from Eastern Europe and the USA to win the gold medal on the uneven bars at 29th World Gymnastics Championships .

<norp>Chinese</norp> rising star <person>Li Luo</person> broke through the stiff opposition of gymnasts from <loc>Eastern Europe</loc> and the <gpe>USA</gpe> to win the gold medal on the uneven bars at <ordinal>29th</ordinal> <event>World Gymnastics Championships</event> .


This was the best result of a Chinese gymnast in 4 days of competition .

This was the best result of a <norp>Chinese</norp> gymnast in <date>4 days</date> of competition .


There were many other strong competitors taking part in the women 's uneven bars .


Russia , Romania and US each has 2 competitors and Ukraine has 1 competitor .

<gpe>Russia</gpe> , <gpe>Romania</gpe> and <gpe>US</gpe> each has <cardinal>2</cardinal> competitors and <gpe>Ukraine</gpe> has <cardinal>1</cardinal> competitor .


The 17 year old Li Luo scored 9.900 in the preliminary competition to take the lead .

The <date>17 year old</date> <person>Li Luo</person> scored <cardinal>9.900</cardinal> in the preliminary competition to take the lead .


She was the fifth gymnast on the apparatus .

She was the <ordinal>fifth</ordinal> gymnast on the apparatus .


Her performance arrangement was new , difficult and special in style , and showed a high degree of technical proficiency .


She received thunderous applause from the spectators .


After a perfect finish to her performance the judges immediately awarded her the night 's highest score of 9.912 .

After a perfect finish to her performance the judges immediately awarded her the <time>night</time> 's highest score of <cardinal>9.912</cardinal> .


The last gymnast was Russian S. Georgina , who staked everything on her last performance .

The last gymnast was <norp>Russian</norp> <person>S. Georgina</person> , who staked everything on her last performance .


Although her movements were smooth , she earned a score of 9.875 due to a lower level of difficulty and picked up the silver medal .

Although her movements were smooth , she earned a score of <cardinal>9.875</cardinal> due to a lower level of difficulty and picked up the silver medal .


Georgina 's fellow team member D. Cochetegiva won the bronze medal with a score of 9.850 .

<person>Georgina</person> 's fellow team member <person>D. Cochetegiva</person> won the bronze medal with a score of <cardinal>9.850</cardinal> .


Romanian Mirosoviki , silver medal winner for the overall championships , made a big mistake and only managed sixth place .

<norp>Romanian</norp> <person>Mirosoviki</person> , silver medal winner for the overall championships , made a big mistake and only managed <ordinal>sixth</ordinal> place .


Today , there were a total finals in 5 events , the men 's floor exercise , the pommel horse , the rings , the women 's vault and the uneven bars individual singles competition .

<date>Today</date> , there were a total finals in <cardinal>5</cardinal> events , the men 's floor exercise , the pommel horse , the rings , the women 's vault and the uneven bars individual singles competition .


Romania won 2 gold medals .

<gpe>Romania</gpe> won <cardinal>2</cardinal> gold medals .


China , Italy and Byelorussia shared the other 3 gold medals .

<gpe>China</gpe> , <gpe>Italy</gpe> and <gpe>Byelorussia</gpe> shared the other <cardinal>3</cardinal> gold medals .


Two Chinese male gymnasts Dashuang Li and Huadong Huang took part in the competitions today .

<cardinal>Two</cardinal> <norp>Chinese</norp> male gymnasts <person>Dashuang Li</person> and <person>Huadong Huang</person> took part in the competitions <date>today</date> .


They both won fifth place respectively on the floor exercise and the pommel horse .

They both won <ordinal>fifth</ordinal> place respectively on the floor exercise and the pommel horse .


Jian Zhang , the head of Chinese delegation , commented that the scores of male gymnasts were the worst in the last 10 years , and explained that levels were falling .

<person>Jian Zhang</person> , the head of <norp>Chinese</norp> delegation , commented that the scores of male gymnasts were the worst in <date>the last 10 years</date> , and explained that levels were falling .


However , all 3 women gymnasts , Li Luo , Ya Qiao and Huilan Mo , taking part in the internationals for the first time , performed well , because they had strong events and their movements had difficulty .

However , all <cardinal>3</cardinal> women gymnasts , <person>Li Luo</person> , <person>Ya Qiao</person> and <person>Huilan Mo</person> , taking part in the internationals for the <ordinal>first</ordinal> time , performed well , because they had strong events and their movements had difficulty .


There was almost an upset in the finals of the men 's floor exercise .


As a relative unknown in gymnastics , the Greek R. Milisanidis boldly went head to head for the gold medal with the Byelorussian star Shellbo .

As a relative unknown in gymnastics , the <norp>Greek</norp> <person>R. Milisanidis</person> boldly went head to head for the gold medal with the <norp>Byelorussian</norp> star <person>Shellbo</person> .


Shellbo finally won the gold with a score of 9.725 ; Milisanidis scored 9.687 to share the silver medal with the British competitor N. Thomas .

<person>Shellbo</person> finally won the gold with a score of <cardinal>9.725</cardinal> ; <person>Milisanidis</person> scored <cardinal>9.687</cardinal> to share the silver medal with the <norp>British</norp> competitor <person>N. Thomas</person> .


It was the best result for Greek gymnasts since they began taking part in gymnastic internationals .

It was the best result for <norp>Greek</norp> gymnasts since they began taking part in gymnastic internationals .


Romania won 2 gold medals from 18 year - old M. Uzika , in the pommel horse and from 16 year - old G. Gogiea , on the women 's vault , their respective scores were 9.712 and 9.812 .

<gpe>Romania</gpe> won <cardinal>2</cardinal> gold medals from <date>18 year - old</date> <person>M. Uzika</person> , in the pommel horse and from <date>16 year - old</date> <person>G. Gogiea</person> , on the women 's vault , their respective scores were <cardinal>9.712</cardinal> and <cardinal>9.812</cardinal> .


Italian U. Kegie won the gold medal on the rings with a score of 9.787 .

<norp>Italian</norp> <person>U. Kegie</person> won the gold medal on the rings with a score of <cardinal>9.787</cardinal> .


The standard on the rings today was the highest of all previous championships .

The standard on the rings <date>today</date> was the highest of all previous championships .


All 8 gymnasts performed many breathtakingly difficult moves .

All <cardinal>8</cardinal> gymnasts performed many breathtakingly difficult moves .


Kegie who was in first place in the preliminary showed his energetic and powerful performance and won the final .

<person>Kegie</person> who was in <ordinal>first</ordinal> place in the preliminary showed his energetic and powerful performance and won the final .


The American B. Ovneol won the silver medal with a score of 9.725 , the Romanian D. Bulinka and the German W. Belinki shared the bronze medal with the same score of 9.700 .

The <norp>American</norp> <person>B. Ovneol</person> won the silver medal with a score of <cardinal>9.725</cardinal> , the <norp>Romanian</norp> <person>D. Bulinka</person> and the <norp>German</norp> <person>W. Belinki</person> shared the bronze medal with the same score of <cardinal>9.700</cardinal> .


Romanian gymnasts showed solid strength in the final of the women 's vault .

<norp>Romanian</norp> gymnasts showed solid strength in the final of the women 's vault .


Besides Gogiea winning the gold medal , Mirosoviki won the bronze medal with a score of 9.787 .

Besides <person>Gogiea</person> winning the gold medal , <person>Mirosoviki</person> won the bronze medal with a score of <cardinal>9.787</cardinal> .


The Russian Georgina won the silver medal with a score of 9.800 .

The <norp>Russian</norp> <person>Georgina</person> won the silver medal with a score of <cardinal>9.800</cardinal> .


The American Miller , winner of the gold medal for the overall championships , made a big mistake in the competition and only managed seventh place .

The <norp>American</norp> <person>Miller</person> , winner of the gold medal for the overall championships , made a big mistake in the competition and only managed <ordinal>seventh</ordinal> place .


To date seven gold medals have been decided at the championships .

To date <cardinal>seven</cardinal> gold medals have been decided at the championships .


The last 5 men 's and women 's finals in the individual events will be held tomorrow .

The last <cardinal>5</cardinal> men 's and women 's finals in the individual events will be held <date>tomorrow</date> .


-LRB- End -RRB-


Xinhua News Agency , Shantou , April 23rd , by reporter Guangzhi Ling

<org>Xinhua News Agency</org> , <gpe>Shantou</gpe> , <date>April 23rd</date> , by reporter <person>Guangzhi Ling</person>


" the First Session of the Global Chinese Physics Meeting " which will bring together Chinese physicists from all over the world will be held at Shantou University from August 5th to 9th , 1995 .

" the <ordinal>First</ordinal> Session of <event>the Global Chinese Physics Meeting</event> " which will bring together <norp>Chinese</norp> physicists from all over the world will be held at <org>Shantou University</org> from <date>August 5th to 9th , 1995</date> .


This was learned by this reporter from the recently ended preparatory working meeting of the First Session of Global Chinese Physics Convention .

This was learned by this reporter from the recently ended preparatory working meeting of the <ordinal>First</ordinal> Session of <event>Global Chinese Physics Convention</event> .


This large scale and high level international convention will be jointly held by the Overseas Chinese Physics Institute , Shantou University , the Physics Institute of China , the Physics Institute of Taipei , China , the Hong Kong Physics Institute , the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the Chinese Academy of Science .

This large scale and high level international convention will be jointly held by <org>the Overseas Chinese Physics Institute</org> , <org>Shantou University</org> , <org>the Physics Institute of China</org> , <org>the Physics Institute of Taipei , China</org> , <org>the Hong Kong Physics Institute</org> , <org>the National Natural Science Foundation of China</org> and <org>the Chinese Academy of Science</org> .


The academic content of this meeting will be : elementary particles and astrophysics , coacervation physics , new materials , applied physics , nuclear physics and synchronized radiation technology , etc .


At the preparatory meeting , a meeting organization committee was also formed , made up of 17 members : Zhengdao Li , Yuanzhe Li , Zhaozhong Ding , Jianxiong Wu , Daqiu Wu , Xide Xie , Jici Yan , Zhenning Yang , Guangzhao Zhou , Guangya Zhu , etc .

At the preparatory meeting , a meeting organization committee was also formed , made up of <cardinal>17</cardinal> members : <person>Zhengdao Li</person> , <person>Yuanzhe Li</person> , <person>Zhaozhong Ding</person> , <person>Jianxiong Wu</person> , <person>Daqiu Wu</person> , <person>Xide Xie</person> , <person>Jici Yan</person> , <person>Zhenning Yang</person> , <person>Guangzhao Zhou</person> , <person>Guangya Zhu</person> , etc .


Xinhua News Agency , Beijing , April 23rd

<org>Xinhua News Agency</org> , <gpe>Beijing</gpe> , <date>April 23rd</date>


Today , the Association of the Relationship between the Two Sides of the Straits sent a letter to the Foundation for the Exchange across the Straits to exchange views on the matters of life and property loss of mainland compatriots and Taiwanese compatriots .

<date>Today</date> , <org>the Association of the Relationship between the Two Sides of the Straits</org> sent a letter to <org>the Foundation for the Exchange across the Straits</org> to exchange views on the matters of life and property loss of mainland compatriots and <norp>Taiwanese</norp> compatriots .


The communique said that on April 12th the Straits Association director expressed that the Straits Association agreed in principle , after both sides implement necessary preparations , to exchange views about the matter of contact and exchange between both sides of the Straits concerning life and property loss of mainland compatriots and Taiwanese compatriots in recent years .

The communique said that on <date>April 12th</date> the <org>Straits Association</org> director expressed that <org>the Straits Association</org> agreed in principle , after both sides implement necessary preparations , to exchange views about the matter of contact and exchange between both sides of the <loc>Straits</loc> concerning life and property loss of mainland compatriots and <norp>Taiwanese</norp> compatriots in <date>recent years</date> .


The Straits Association holds that , now , both sides should first agree on topics and content of exchanging views , and then come back to consider issues such as staff levels and time , place , etc .

<org>The Straits Association</org> holds that , now , both sides should first agree on topics and content of exchanging views , and then come back to consider issues such as staff levels and time , place , etc .


If both sides can not reach an agreement on topics and content , it would not be possible to find common points in exchanging views .


This type of discussion is not what compatriots from both sides are happy to see .


The Straits Association believes that the content of the exchange of views should include :

<org>The Straits Association</org> believes that the content of the exchange of views should include :


Firstly , to exchange views on the issues of tourism and contact on both sides of the Straits , including travel safety issues of compatriots from both sides .

<ordinal>Firstly</ordinal> , to exchange views on the issues of tourism and contact on both sides of the <loc>Straits</loc> , including travel safety issues of compatriots from both sides .


As early as the first working discussion , at the end of August of last year , when the two associations implemented the " Wang - Gu Talks " , the Straits Association put forward in the " schedule for the discussion on implementing relevant agreements of the Wang - Gu Talks " that the associations should conduct specific discussions about " issues on strengthening tourism and contact on both sides " as soon as possible , but so far the Straits Foundation 's response has not been received .

As early as the first working discussion , at <date>the end of August of last year</date> , when the <cardinal>two</cardinal> associations implemented <event>the " Wang - Gu Talks "</event> , <org>the Straits Association</org> put forward in the " schedule for the discussion on implementing relevant agreements of <event>the Wang - Gu Talks</event> " that the associations should conduct specific discussions about " issues on strengthening tourism and contact on both sides " as soon as possible , but so far <org>the Straits Foundation 's</org> response has not been received .


Secondly , the Straits Association persistently advocates completely implementing discussions of topics about routine and economy , science and technology stipulated in the " common agreement of the Wang - Gu talks " , and has suggested many times to the Straits Foundation that discussions on the " rights of Taiwanese merchants investing in the mainland and related issues " should be started early .

<ordinal>Secondly</ordinal> , <org>the Straits Association</org> persistently advocates completely implementing discussions of topics about routine and economy , science and technology stipulated in the " common agreement of <event>the Wang - Gu talks "</event> , and has suggested many times to <org>the Straits Foundation</org> that discussions on the " rights of <norp>Taiwanese</norp> merchants investing in the mainland and related issues " should be started early .


Our association holds that the personal and property safety of Taiwanese merchants investing in the mainland have legal safeguards , and if the Straits Foundation felt it was needed , it could exchange views while discussing " Rights of Taiwanese merchants investing in the mainland and related issues " .

Our association holds that the personal and property safety of <norp>Taiwanese</norp> merchants investing in the mainland have legal safeguards , and if <org>the Straits Foundation</org> felt it was needed , it could exchange views while discussing " Rights of <norp>Taiwanese</norp> merchants investing in the mainland and related issues " .


Thirdly , the Straits Association has repeatedly requested that both associations should conduct consultative discussions on issues of the Taiwanese military killing and wounding mainland coastal fishermen and causing serious life and property losses in recent years .

<ordinal>Thirdly</ordinal> , <org>the Straits Association</org> has repeatedly requested that both associations should conduct consultative discussions on issues of the <norp>Taiwanese</norp> military killing and wounding mainland coastal fishermen and causing serious life and property losses in <date>recent years</date> .


Since establishing the Straits Association , it has continuously pointed out such inhumane behavior to the Straits Foundation which seriously hurts feelings of compatriots of both sides and breaks the harmonious atmosphere on both sides , so as to attract the attention of relevant Taiwanese areas on compensating for losses , finding those responsible , and severely punishing the assailants .

Since establishing <org>the Straits Association</org> , it has continuously pointed out such inhumane behavior to <org>the Straits Foundation</org> which seriously hurts feelings of compatriots of both sides and breaks the harmonious atmosphere on both sides , so as to attract the attention of relevant <norp>Taiwanese</norp> areas on compensating for losses , finding those responsible , and severely punishing the assailants .


It has appealed to stop such violence at the root through negotiation between the two associations .

It has appealed to stop such violence at the root through negotiation between the <cardinal>two</cardinal> associations .


However , up to now , the Straits Foundation 's response has not been received .

However , up to now , <org>the Straits Foundation 's</org> response has not been received .


The communique clearly points out that in the above issues involving rights of compatriots of both sides of the Straits in contact and exchange , personal safety is included , so as for the long delay in starting discussions , the fault is not with the Straits Association .

The communique clearly points out that in the above issues involving rights of compatriots of both sides of the <loc>Straits</loc> in contact and exchange , personal safety is included , so as for the long delay in starting discussions , the fault is not with <org>the Straits Association</org> .


The communique says that current methods of contact and co-operation between the two associations must strictly follow the " regulation agreement of contact and talks between the two associations " signed last year .

The communique says that current methods of contact and co-operation between the <cardinal>two</cardinal> associations must strictly follow <law>the " regulation agreement of contact and talks between the two associations "</law> signed <date>last year</date> .


Since the " QianDao Lake Incident " occurred , the Straits Association has , according to the agreement , reported the situation to the Straits Foundation , explaining and answering a certain number of questions and requests brought up by the Straits Foundation .

Since <event>the " QianDao Lake Incident "</event> occurred , <org>the Straits Association</org> has , according to the agreement , reported the situation to <org>the Straits Foundation</org> , explaining and answering a certain number of questions and requests brought up by <org>the Straits Foundation</org> .


However , the Straits Foundation has repeatedly raised demands that exceed the above agreement of the two associations .

However , <org>the Straits Foundation</org> has repeatedly raised demands that exceed the above agreement of the <cardinal>two</cardinal> associations .


Despite being reminded by the Straits Association , the Straits Foundation still repeatedly persists .

Despite being reminded by <org>the Straits Association</org> , <org>the Straits Foundation</org> still repeatedly persists .


This is a practice that disrespects the agreement between the two associations .

This is a practice that disrespects the agreement between the <cardinal>two</cardinal> associations .


It is continually hoped that the contact and co-operation of the two associations can be conducted in accordance with the current agreement .

It is continually hoped that the contact and co-operation of the <cardinal>two</cardinal> associations can be conducted in accordance with the current agreement .


The communique points out that as far as the " QianDao Lake Incident " is concerned , the top priority is investigating and settling the case in accordance with the law .

The communique points out that as far as <event>the " QianDao Lake Incident "</event> is concerned , the top priority is investigating and settling the case in accordance with the law .


At the same time , to express further goodwill , the Straits Association has proactively invited the Straits Foundation and relevant experts to come to Zhejiang .

At the same time , to express further goodwill , <org>the Straits Association</org> has proactively invited <org>the Straits Foundation</org> and relevant experts to come to <gpe>Zhejiang</gpe> .


The Straits Association will arrange experts ' to be presented with the details of the incident and reply to questions .

<org>The Straits Association</org> will arrange experts ' to be presented with the details of the incident and reply to questions .


If the Straits Foundation is willing to know the details of this case and sincerely understands the feelings of dependents of those who perished , then it is difficult to understand why it again sets up prerequisites ?

If <org>the Straits Foundation</org> is willing to know the details of this case and sincerely understands the feelings of dependents of those who perished , then it is difficult to understand why it again sets up prerequisites ?


The Straits Association again reaffirms the above invitation , and hopes that the Straits Foundation would soon provide the date of its departure and the name list .

<org>The Straits Association</org> again reaffirms the above invitation , and hopes that <org>the Straits Foundation</org> would soon provide the date of its departure and the name list .


According to relevant sources , currently , the three suspected criminals have been arrested , and a trial will soon be carried out according to legal procedure .

According to relevant sources , currently , the <cardinal>three</cardinal> suspected criminals have been arrested , and a trial will soon be carried out according to legal procedure .


-LRB- End -RRB-


Xinhua News Agency , Moldavia , August 31st , by reporter Rongke Liang

<org>Xinhua News Agency</org> , <gpe>Moldavia</gpe> , <date>August 31st</date> , by reporter <person>Rongke Liang</person>


The " Representation Committee " , a standing political institution of the Latin American Unification Association , held a grand ceremony on August 31st to accept China as an observer country , and to express its welcome to Rumao Xie , China 's permanent observer to the Association and ambassador to Uruguay .

<org>The " Representation Committee "</org> , a standing political institution of <org>the Latin American Unification Association</org> , held a grand ceremony on <date>August 31st</date> to accept <gpe>China</gpe> as an observer country , and to express its welcome to <person>Rumao Xie</person> , <gpe>China</gpe> 's permanent observer to the <org>Association</org> and ambassador to <gpe>Uruguay</gpe> .


Chairing the ceremony were Bilyasainyaur , chairman of the Representation Committee , secretary general and vice-secretary general of the Latin American Unification Association , member country representatives and permanent observers from other countries .

Chairing the ceremony were <person>Bilyasainyaur</person> , chairman of <org>the Representation Committee</org> , secretary general and vice-secretary general of <org>the Latin American Unification Association</org> , member country representatives and permanent observers from other countries .


Antonates , secretary general of the Latin American Unification Association , made a speech at the ceremony , expressing heartfelt happiness over China being accepted as an observer country of the organization .

<person>Antonates</person> , secretary general of <org>the Latin American Unification Association</org> , made a speech at the ceremony , expressing heartfelt happiness over <gpe>China</gpe> being accepted as an observer country of the organization .


He praised the rapid development of China 's economy , and emphasized the important role that China has taken in world politics and economics .

He praised the rapid development of <gpe>China</gpe> 's economy , and emphasized the important role that <gpe>China</gpe> has taken in world politics and economics .


He also hoped that member countries of the Latin American Unification Association and China would henceforth further strengthen co-operation and exchange in the economy , trade , technology and other areas .

He also hoped that member countries of <org>the Latin American Unification Association</org> and <gpe>China</gpe> would henceforth further strengthen co-operation and exchange in the economy , trade , technology and other areas .


In his responding speech , Ambassador Rumao Xie said that strengthening the friendly co-operation relations with various countries in Latin American on the basis of the five principles of peaceful co-existence is an important component of China 's foreign policy .

In his responding speech , Ambassador <person>Rumao Xie</person> said that strengthening the friendly co-operation relations with various countries in <loc>Latin American</loc> on the basis of the <cardinal>five</cardinal> principles of peaceful co-existence is an important component of <gpe>China</gpe> 's foreign policy .


Establishing frequent contact between China as an observer country and the Latin American Unification Association will be beneficial for deepening mutual understanding and promoting bilateral co-operation .

Establishing frequent contact between <gpe>China</gpe> as an observer country and <org>the Latin American Unification Association</org> will be beneficial for deepening mutual understanding and promoting bilateral co-operation .


The Latin American Unification Association was founded in 1981 and has 11 member countries .

<org>The Latin American Unification Association</org> was founded in <date>1981</date> and has <cardinal>11</cardinal> member countries .


It has accepted 15 countries and 5 international organizations as observers .

It has accepted <cardinal>15</cardinal> countries and <cardinal>5</cardinal> international organizations as observers .


On June 15th of this year , China became Asia 's first country to participate in the Latin American Association with observer status .

On <date>June 15th of this year</date> , <gpe>China</gpe> became <loc>Asia</loc> 's first country to participate in <org>the Latin American Association</org> with observer status .


Xinhua News Agency , Auckland -LRB- New Zealand -RRB- , April 23rd , by reporter Jinjun Chen

<org>Xinhua News Agency</org> , <gpe>Auckland -LRB- New Zealand -RRB-</gpe> , <date>April 23rd</date> , by reporter <person>Jinjun Chen</person>


China 's People 's Congress delegation led by vice-chief committee member Jiyun Tian ended a 6 - day visit to New Zealand , and left here this evening for the capitol of West Samoa , Apia .

<gpe>China</gpe> 's <org>People 's Congress</org> delegation led by vice-chief committee member <person>Jiyun Tian</person> ended a <date>6 - day</date> visit to <gpe>New Zealand</gpe> , and left here <time>this evening</time> for the capitol of <gpe>West Samoa</gpe> , <gpe>Apia</gpe> .


While in New Zealand , Jiyun Tian met respectively with the speaker of New Zealand 's Parliament , Prime Minister Bolger and other senior government officials .

While in <gpe>New Zealand</gpe> , <person>Jiyun Tian</person> met respectively with the speaker of <gpe>New Zealand 's</gpe> <org>Parliament</org> , Prime Minister <person>Bolger</person> and other senior government officials .


He also made broad contacts with friends from New Zealand industries and business circles , Chinese and overseas Chinese .

He also made broad contacts with friends from <gpe>New Zealand</gpe> industries and business circles , <norp>Chinese</norp> and overseas <norp>Chinese</norp> .


Both parties expressed the desire to further strengthen co-operation in economic areas .


Other than West Samoa , the delegation from China 's People 's Congress will also visit Papua New Guinea and Australia .

Other than <gpe>West Samoa</gpe> , the delegation from <gpe>China</gpe> 's <org>People 's Congress</org> will also visit <gpe>Papua New Guinea</gpe> and <gpe>Australia</gpe> .


-LRB- End -RRB-


Xinhua News Agency , Beijing , April 23rd

<org>Xinhua News Agency</org> , <gpe>Beijing</gpe> , <date>April 23rd</date>


The 6th national members ' representative convention of the China 's Red Cross Society opened today in Beijing .

The <ordinal>6th</ordinal> <event>national members ' representative convention</event> of the <gpe>China</gpe> 's <org>Red Cross Society</org> opened <date>today</date> in <gpe>Beijing</gpe> .


The convention approved the new list of leading members with Zemin Jiang as honorary chairman , discussed the compendium of work programs for the five years , 1995 to 1999 , and established a work direction of " conscientiously administer Red Cross regulations and diligently develop the Red Cross cause with Chinese characteristics " .

The convention approved the new list of leading members with <person>Zemin Jiang</person> as honorary chairman , discussed the compendium of work programs for <date>the five years</date> , <date>1995 to 1999</date> , and established a work direction of " conscientiously administer <org>Red Cross</org> regulations and diligently develop the <org>Red Cross</org> cause with <norp>Chinese</norp> characteristics " .


This year is the 90th founding anniversary of China 's Red Cross Society .

<date>This year</date> is the <ordinal>90th</ordinal> founding anniversary of <gpe>China</gpe> 's <org>Red Cross Society</org> .


After 1950 , when the China 's Red Cross Society was re-organized through consultation , it has been a social aid organization engaged in humanitarian work , and has done a great deal of work .

<date>After 1950</date> , when the <gpe>China</gpe> 's <org>Red Cross Society</org> was re-organized through consultation , it has been a social aid organization engaged in humanitarian work , and has done a great deal of work .


China 's Red Cross Society was the first Chinese organization to regained a legal seat among international organizations .

<gpe>China</gpe> 's <org>Red Cross Society</org> was the <ordinal>first</ordinal> <norp>Chinese</norp> organization to regained a legal seat among international organizations .


In its special status , it has widely developed civil diplomatic activities , and has played an important role in publicizing New China on the international stage .

In its special status , it has widely developed civil diplomatic activities , and has played an important role in publicizing <gpe>New China</gpe> on the international stage .


In recent years , the Red Cross Society of China has played a special role in the area of normalizing relations between both sides of the Straits , and through actively developing bilateral , multi-lateral exchanges with Red Cross Societies of various countries and the International Red Cross Organization , has promoted friendly international exchange and co-operation .

In <date>recent years</date> , <org>the Red Cross Society</org> of <gpe>China</gpe> has played a special role in the area of normalizing relations between both sides of the <loc>Straits</loc> , and through actively developing bilateral , multi-lateral exchanges with <org>Red Cross Societies</org> of various countries and <org>the International Red Cross Organization</org> , has promoted friendly international exchange and co-operation .


On October 31 , 1993 , the Standing Committee of the 8th NPC formally passed the " Laws of the PRC Red Cross Society " , reflecting the state 's high - level recognition and support of the humanitarian cause of the Red Cross .

On <date>October 31 , 1993</date> , <org>the Standing Committee</org> of the <ordinal>8th</ordinal> <org>NPC</org> formally passed the <law>" Laws of the PRC Red Cross Society "</law> , reflecting the state 's high - level recognition and support of the humanitarian cause of <org>the Red Cross</org> .


It has provided a legal guarantee to the development of China 's Red Cross cause and connections with the International Red Cross movement , signifying that China 's Red Cross cause has entered a new historical phase .

It has provided a legal guarantee to the development of <gpe>China</gpe> 's <org>Red Cross</org> cause and connections with the <org>International Red Cross</org> movement , signifying that <gpe>China</gpe> 's <org>Red Cross</org> cause has entered a new historical phase .


The list of leadership of the 6th session of China 's Red Cross Society approved at today 's meeting includes : Puchu Zhao , Guangying Wang , Peiyao Li , Xinzhong Qian , Yueli Cui and Minzhang Chen as honorary vice-chairman ; Zhengying Qian , vice-chairman of the CPPCC , as chairman ; Yingqi Gu as standing vice-chairman ; Baojun Fan , Chongchun Yang , Yanzhi Lin , Baiqiu Sun and Zhe Qu as vice-chairman ; and Changming Li as secretary general .

The list of leadership of the <ordinal>6th</ordinal> session of <gpe>China</gpe> 's <org>Red Cross Society</org> approved at <date>today</date> 's meeting includes : <person>Puchu Zhao</person> , <person>Guangying Wang</person> , <person>Peiyao Li</person> , <person>Xinzhong Qian</person> , <person>Yueli Cui</person> and <person>Minzhang Chen</person> as honorary vice-chairman ; <person>Zhengying Qian</person> , vice-chairman of the <org>CPPCC</org> , as chairman ; <person>Yingqi Gu</person> as standing vice-chairman ; <person>Baojun Fan</person> , <person>Chongchun Yang</person> , <person>Yanzhi Lin</person> , <person>Baiqiu Sun</person> and <person>Zhe Qu</person> as vice-chairman ; and <person>Changming Li</person> as secretary general .


George Weber , secretary general of the International United Association of the Red Cross Society and the Red Crescent Society sent a congratulatory letter to today 's meeting .

<person>George Weber</person> , secretary general of <org>the International United Association of the Red Cross Society and the Red Crescent Society</org> sent a congratulatory letter to <date>today</date> 's meeting .


After Mingxia Fu won the champion for the women platform diving , the coach of the Soviet Union team congratulated her warmly .

After <person>Mingxia Fu</person> won the champion for the women platform diving , the coach of the <gpe>Soviet Union</gpe> team congratulated her warmly .


Photo taken by Xinhua News Agency reporter , Zhishan Cheng .

Photo taken by <org>Xinhua News Agency</org> reporter , <person>Zhishan Cheng</person> .


Xinhua News Agency , Beijing April 23rd

<org>Xinhua News Agency</org> , <gpe>Beijing</gpe> <date>April 23rd</date>


Today in Zhongnanhai , General Secretary of the Communist Party of China , President of the country and honorary President of China 's Red Cross , Zemin Jiang met with representatives of the 6th National Member Congress of China 's Red Cross , and expressed warm greetings to the 20 million hardworking members on behalf of the Central Committee of the Chinese Communist Party and State Council .

<date>Today</date> in <gpe>Zhongnanhai</gpe> , General Secretary of <org>the Communist Party of China</org> , President of the country and honorary President of <gpe>China</gpe> 's <org>Red Cross</org> , <person>Zemin Jiang</person> met with representatives of the <ordinal>6th</ordinal> <event>National Member Congress</event> of <gpe>China</gpe> 's <org>Red Cross</org> , and expressed warm greetings to the <cardinal>20 million</cardinal> hardworking members on behalf of <org>the Central Committee of the Chinese Communist Party</org> and <org>State Council</org> .


Zemin Jiang said , the China 's Red Cross is an international social aid organization engaged in humanitarian works , and for the past ninety years has done lots of good works for the people and made a lot of contributions to the development of the country , in accordance to the basic principles of the Red Cross and Red Crescent movement .

<person>Zemin Jiang</person> said , the <gpe>China</gpe> 's <org>Red Cross</org> is an international social aid organization engaged in humanitarian works , and for <date>the past ninety years</date> has done lots of good works for the people and made a lot of contributions to the development of the country , in accordance to the basic principles of the <org>Red Cross</org> and <org>Red Crescent</org> movement .


It has won the respect and support of the masses through real action .


Zemin Jiang said , Red Cross work is honorable social work and has positive accelerative effects on the building up of socialist material civilization and spiritual culture .

<person>Zemin Jiang</person> said , <org>Red Cross</org> work is honorable social work and has positive accelerative effects on the building up of socialist material civilization and spiritual culture .


Since the reform and opening - up , the Chinese Red Cross has launched effective humanitarian works in accordance to new implementation demands .

Since the reform and opening - up , the <norp>Chinese</norp> <org>Red Cross</org> has launched effective humanitarian works in accordance to new implementation demands .


It has produced broad , beneficial influences on society , creating a new road of Red Cross development with Chinese characteristics .

It has produced broad , beneficial influences on society , creating a new road of <org>Red Cross</org> development with <norp>Chinese</norp> characteristics .


Vice President Yiren Rong , Qicheng Qian , Peiyun Peng , Zhengying Qian , etc. attended the meeting .

Vice President <person>Yiren Rong</person> , <person>Qicheng Qian</person> , <person>Peiyun Peng</person> , <person>Zhengying Qian</person> , etc. attended the meeting .


State Council Premier Peng Li , who is on an overseas visit , sent a congratulatory letter to the meeting .

State Council Premier <person>Peng Li</person> , who is on an overseas visit , sent a congratulatory letter to the meeting .


In his congratulatory letter Peng Li said , the Chinese Red Cross was a very important humanitarian organization

In his congratulatory letter <person>Peng Li</person> said , the <norp>Chinese</norp> <org>Red Cross</org> was a very important humanitarian organization


In the past 90 years , especially since the formation of the new China , it has demonstrated important effects in the communications between the Chinese people and the people of the world .

In <date>the past 90 years</date> , especially since the formation of the new <gpe>China</gpe> , it has demonstrated important effects in the communications between the Chinese people and the people of the world .


He hoped that the work of the Chinese Red Cross would flourish and develop further .

He hoped that the work of the <norp>Chinese</norp> <org>Red Cross</org> would flourish and develop further .


He hoped that society as a whole and all levels of government would express concern and support this honorable work .


Zemin Jiang , Peng Li , Shi Qiao , Huaqing Liu , etc. also wrote words of appreciation for the 90th anniversary of the formation of the Chinese Red Cross and the concurrent 6th National Congress .

<person>Zemin Jiang</person> , <person>Peng Li</person> , <person>Shi Qiao</person> , <person>Huaqing Liu</person> , etc. also wrote words of appreciation for the <ordinal>90th</ordinal> anniversary of the formation of the <norp>Chinese</norp> <org>Red Cross</org> and the concurrent <ordinal>6th</ordinal> <event>National Congress</event> .


-LRB- End -RRB-


Xinhua News Agency , London , August 31st , by reporter Hao Liu

<org>Xinhua News Agency</org> , <gpe>London</gpe> , <date>August 31st</date> , by reporter <person>Hao Liu</person>


British Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on the 31st that the UK would send a frigate , a supply ship and military training personnel to join the multi-national force led by the US for the invasion of Haiti .

<org>British Ministry of Foreign Affairs</org> announced on <date>the 31st</date> that the <gpe>UK</gpe> would send a frigate , a supply ship and military training personnel to join the multi-national force led by the <gpe>US</gpe> for the invasion of <gpe>Haiti</gpe> .


It was reported that before this the five nations of the Caribbean Union had already agreed on the 30th to send troops totaling 266 people to Haiti to join the multi-national force that had a total of about 10,000 people .

It was reported that before this the <cardinal>five</cardinal> nations of <org>the Caribbean Union</org> had already agreed on <date>the 30th</date> to send troops totaling <cardinal>266</cardinal> people to <gpe>Haiti</gpe> to join the multi-national force that had a total of <cardinal>about 10,000</cardinal> people .


Also , according to reports , United Nations Secretary General Ghali expressed on the 30th that , the peace effort by the UN trying to persuade the Haitian military government to step down had already failed because military rulers of Haiti had refused to meet with his special envoy .

Also , according to reports , <org>United Nations</org> Secretary General <person>Ghali</person> expressed on <date>the 30th</date> that , the peace effort by the <org>UN</org> trying to persuade the <norp>Haitian</norp> military government to step down had already failed because military rulers of <gpe>Haiti</gpe> had refused to meet with his special envoy .


On the same day , vice-minister of the US Department of Defense Doetch said that the multi-national force would soon invade Haiti , " This moment has already arrived " .

On <date>the same day</date> , vice-minister of the <gpe>US</gpe> <org>Department of Defense</org> <person>Doetch</person> said that the multi-national force would soon invade <gpe>Haiti</gpe> , " This moment has already arrived " .


The UNSC made the decision at the end of July to adopt " all necessary measures " to regain the authority of Haitian President Aristide who was overthrown by the military .

The <org>UNSC</org> made the decision at <date>the end of July</date> to adopt " all necessary measures " to regain the authority of <norp>Haitian</norp> President <person>Aristide</person> who was overthrown by the military .


Xinhua News Agency , Beijing , September 1st , by reporter Yuming Gai

<org>Xinhua News Agency</org> , <gpe>Beijing</gpe> , <date>September 1st</date> , by reporter <person>Yuming Gai</person>


When meeting representatives from some regions of the nation attending the militia and reserve work conference at Zhongnanhai today , the General Secretary of the CCP , president of the country and president of the Military Commission of the Central Committee Zemin Jiang , stressed that , local party committees , governments and military departments of all levels should focus attention on the overall situation of the work of the whole party and whole country and the country 's long term peace and stability , and recognize the importance of improving militia and reserve work .

When meeting representatives from some regions of the nation attending the militia and reserve work conference at <gpe>Zhongnanhai</gpe> <date>today</date> , the General Secretary of the <org>CCP</org> , president of the country and president of <org>the Military Commission of the Central Committee</org> <person>Zemin Jiang</person> , stressed that , local party committees , governments and military departments of all levels should focus attention on the overall situation of the work of the whole party and whole country and the country 's long term peace and stability , and recognize the importance of improving militia and reserve work .


Zemin Jiang pointed out that , the militia are citizens as well as soldiers .

<person>Zemin Jiang</person> pointed out that , the militia are citizens as well as soldiers .


It is not only an important force that safeguards the safety of the country and maintains the unity of our country , but is also an important force that maintains the stability of society and promotes two civilized constructions .

It is not only an important force that safeguards the safety of the country and maintains the unity of our country , but is also an important force that maintains the stability of society and promotes <cardinal>two</cardinal> civilized constructions .


Various levels of the local party committees , governments and military departments should fully muster enthusiasm and creativity of the mass militia and reserve troop officers , should make contributions to deepening reforms , promoting development and maintaining stability .


All troops should provide reliable safety guarantees for reforms , development and stability , and actively participate in local economic construction and work hard to promote the common prosperity of all races .


They should strengthen unity between the troops and the government and unity between the troops and the people , truly achieving commonality , a common fate and a linking of hearts with people of all races .


Huaqing Liu , vice president of the Military Commission of the CCP , Wannian Zhang , Military Commission member , Yongbo Yu , Quanyou Fu and leaders of the three headquarters of the PLA and the Central Office of the Military Commission attended the meeting .

<person>Huaqing Liu</person> , vice president of <org>the Military Commission of the CCP</org> , <person>Wannian Zhang</person> , <org>Military Commission</org> member , <person>Yongbo Yu</person> , <person>Quanyou Fu</person> and leaders of the <cardinal>three</cardinal> headquarters of the <org>PLA</org> and <org>the Central Office of the Military Commission</org> attended the meeting .


Xinhua News Agency , Madrid , August 31st , by reporter Tairan Hu

<org>Xinhua News Agency</org> , <gpe>Madrid</gpe> , <date>August 31st</date> , by reporter <person>Tairan Hu</person>


A Spanish left - wing group and 36 other mass organizations issued a joint communique on August 31st , strongly denouncing the various measures adopted by the US to strengthen its blockade against Cuba .

A <norp>Spanish</norp> left - wing group and <cardinal>36</cardinal> other mass organizations issued a joint communique on <date>August 31st</date> , strongly denouncing the various measures adopted by the <gpe>US</gpe> to strengthen its blockade against <gpe>Cuba</gpe> .


The communique points out that the US government 's " adopted these measures , the purpose of which is to create an atmosphere of anxiety within -LRB- Cuba -RRB- so as to further aggravate opposition among the people and to provide an excuse for foreign intervention and military occupation of this island . "

The communique points out that the <gpe>US</gpe> government 's " adopted these measures , the purpose of which is to create an atmosphere of anxiety within -LRB- <gpe>Cuba</gpe> -RRB- so as to further aggravate opposition among the people and to provide an excuse for foreign intervention and military occupation of this island . "


The communique holds that methods such as forbidding overseas Cubans residing in America from remitting money and mailing articles to their families in Cuba , and sending Cuban stowaways detained on the high seas to the Guantanamo naval base , etc. is to put pressure on the Cuban government and attempt to damage and postpone Cuba 's economic recovery process .

The communique holds that methods such as forbidding overseas <norp>Cubans</norp> residing in <gpe>America</gpe> from remitting money and mailing articles to their families in <gpe>Cuba</gpe> , and sending <norp>Cuban</norp> stowaways detained on the high seas to the <gpe>Guantanamo</gpe> naval base , etc. is to put pressure on the <norp>Cuban</norp> government and attempt to damage and postpone <gpe>Cuba</gpe> 's economic recovery process .


The communique also points out that the establishment of " refugee camps " at Guantanamo by the US violates international agreements on the use of military bases .

The communique also points out that the establishment of " refugee camps " at <gpe>Guantanamo</gpe> by the <gpe>US</gpe> violates international agreements on the use of military bases .


The communique requests that the US respect the territorial integrity of Cuba , return the Guantanamo military base to Cuba , and immediately stop the blockade .

The communique requests that the <gpe>US</gpe> respect the territorial integrity of <gpe>Cuba</gpe> , return the <gpe>Guantanamo</gpe> military base to <gpe>Cuba</gpe> , and immediately stop the blockade .


It also requests that Cuba and the US implement " full negotiations " .

It also requests that <gpe>Cuba</gpe> and the <gpe>US</gpe> implement " full negotiations " .


-LRB- End -RRB-


Taiwan News Holds Seminar on Cross-Strait Relations

<org>Taiwan News</org> Holds Seminar on Cross-Strait Relations


The biggest story of the year in Taiwan has naturally been the changing of the guard at the presidential palace as a result of the Democratic Progressive Party -LRB- DPP -RRB- victory in the election on 18 March .

The biggest story of the year in <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> has naturally been the changing of the guard at the presidential palace as a result of the <org>Democratic Progressive Party</org> -LRB- <org>DPP</org> -RRB- victory in the election on <date>18 March</date> .


Jin Zhong , president and editor - in - chief of Hong Kong 's OPEN magazine , which specializes in political reporting and commentary , spent an entire week in Taiwan observing the election campaign and its aftermath , and on 20 March , OPEN organized a seminar titled " The New President and Cross-Strait Relations . "

<person>Jin Zhong</person> , president and editor - in - chief of <gpe>Hong Kong 's</gpe> <org>OPEN</org> magazine , which specializes in political reporting and commentary , spent an entire week in Taiwan observing the election campaign and its aftermath , and on <date>20 March</date> , <org>OPEN</org> organized a seminar titled " <event>The New President and Cross-Strait Relations</event> . "


The seminar was held in cooperation with Taiwan News , one of the island 's oldest English - language newspapers -LRB- known until last year as the China News -RRB- .

The seminar was held in cooperation with <org>Taiwan News</org> , <cardinal>one</cardinal> of the island 's oldest <language>English</language> - language newspapers -LRB- known until <date>last year</date> as <org>the China News</org> -RRB- .


The KMT ticket finished nearly 14 percentage points behind independent candidate James Soong and pulled in fully two million votes fewer than the DPP ticket , a margin of defeat which Jin Zhong described in his opening remarks as stunning .

The <org>KMT</org> ticket finished nearly <percent>14 percentage points</percent> behind independent candidate <person>James Soong</person> and pulled in fully <cardinal>two million</cardinal> votes fewer than the <org>DPP</org> ticket , a margin of defeat which <person>Jin Zhong</person> described in his opening remarks as stunning .


When Chinese Communist premier Zhu Rongji made belligerent remarks a few days before the election in an effort to scare voters away from the DPP ticket , the ruling party made a grievous mistake , opined Jin , when it failed to come out strongly critical of Zhu and attempted instead to capitalize on the incident by playing the " fear card . "

When <norp>Chinese</norp> <norp>Communist</norp> premier <person>Zhu Rongji</person> made belligerent remarks <date>a few days</date> before the election in an effort to scare voters away from the <org>DPP</org> ticket , the ruling party made a grievous mistake , opined <person>Jin</person> , when it failed to come out strongly critical of <person>Zhu</person> and attempted instead to capitalize on the incident by playing the " fear card . "


At the same time , however , winning candidate Chen Shui - bian captured only 39 % of the vote , which translates to a weak mandate .

At the same time , however , winning candidate <person>Chen Shui - bian</person> captured only <percent>39 %</percent> of the vote , which translates to a weak mandate .


As a result , he must take a moderate line that stresses inter-party cooperation .


He will have to include a wide range of people in his government , keep a low profile , guard against any temptation to grow imperious in power , and strive to be a president of all the people .


As for mainland China 's saber - rattling , Jin argued that there is no need for undue concern .

As for mainland <gpe>China</gpe> 's saber - rattling , <person>Jin</person> argued that there is no need for undue concern .


Stated Jin , " The consequences would be too severe .

Stated <person>Jin</person> , " The consequences would be too severe .


It 's not like Taiwan is without any means of retaliation .

It 's not like <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> is without any means of retaliation .


Are the mainland authorities really prepared to see Hong Kong and Shanghai go up in flames ? "

Are the mainland authorities really prepared to see <gpe>Hong Kong</gpe> and <gpe>Shanghai</gpe> go up in flames ? "


There are other perspectives on cross-strait relations , of course .


The seminar participants basically fell into three camps on future prospects .

The seminar participants basically fell into <cardinal>three</cardinal> camps on future prospects .


Some were highly optimistic , others were guardedly optimistic , and a third group argued that the crystal ball has gone cloudy .

Some were highly optimistic , others were guardedly optimistic , and a <ordinal>third</ordinal> group argued that the crystal ball has gone cloudy .


Perhaps the most optimistic view was expressed by Ruan Ming , a visiting professor at Tamkang University 's Department of China Studies who in the 1980s was an assistant to former Chinese Communist Secretary General Hu Yaobang .

Perhaps the most optimistic view was expressed by <person>Ruan Ming</person> , a visiting professor at <org>Tamkang University 's</org> <org>Department of China Studies</org> who in the <date>1980s</date> was an assistant to former <norp>Chinese</norp> <norp>Communist</norp> Secretary General <person>Hu Yaobang</person> .


Ruan stated that Beijing 's basic position on Taiwan has not changed at all since the days of Deng Xiaoping .

<person>Ruan</person> stated that <gpe>Beijing</gpe> 's basic position on <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> has not changed at all since the days of <person>Deng Xiaoping</person> .


" There 's nothing new in what they 're saying . "


The only thing the Chinese Communists are saying , says Ruan , is that they will attack " if Taiwan makes any sort of formal move toward independence , " and Taiwan has no need to formalize anything because changing the country 's name would be meaningless .

The only thing the <norp>Chinese</norp> <norp>Communists</norp> are saying , says <person>Ruan</person> , is that they will attack " if <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> makes any sort of formal move toward independence , " and <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> has no need to formalize anything because changing the country 's name would be meaningless .


" No matter what you call yourself , people are still going to call you Taiwan .

" No matter what you call yourself , people are still going to call you <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> .


It 's just like in England - the official name is the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland , but nobody calls it that .

It 's just like in <gpe>England</gpe> - the official name is <gpe>the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland</gpe> , but nobody calls it that .


And there 's no need to going around shouting , ' We 're a country ! We 're a country ! '


Who in the international community does that ? "


Pragmatism , please


" Taiwan needs to be more pragmatic , " says Ruan , " just like the mainland . "

" <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> needs to be more pragmatic , " says <person>Ruan</person> , " just like the mainland . "


They made a lot of noise ahead of the election trying to sway votes , but once the election was over they backpedaled quickly with the simple statement , " We 'll wait and see what they say and do . "


The attitude with them , in Ruan 's view , is very pragmatic .

The attitude with them , in <person>Ruan</person> 's view , is very pragmatic .


Ruan is optimistic about cross-strait relations under the new regime , and states , " Chen Shui - bian is best positioned to improve cross-strait relations . "

<person>Ruan</person> is optimistic about cross-strait relations under the new regime , and states , " <person>Chen Shui - bian</person> is best positioned to improve cross-strait relations . "


He likens Chen to the staunchly anti-communist Richard Nixon , who was able to normalize ties with the Chinese Communists precisely because he was trusted by the American people .

He likens <person>Chen</person> to the staunchly anti-communist <person>Richard Nixon</person> , who was able to normalize ties with <norp>the Chinese Communists</norp> precisely because he was trusted by the <norp>American</norp> people .


Similarly , when Chen Shui - bian negotiates with Beijing , no one will worry about him selling Taiwan down the river .

Similarly , when <person>Chen Shui - bian</person> negotiates with <gpe>Beijing</gpe> , no one will worry about him selling <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> down the river .


The noted political commentator Chin Heng - wei , chief editor of Taiwan 's Contemporary Monthly , agreed strongly with Ruan 's comments , and added , " In this election the people of Taiwan were even more concerned about domestic issues than they were about cross-strait relations . "

The noted political commentator <person>Chin Heng - wei</person> , chief editor of <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> 's <org>Contemporary Monthly</org> , agreed strongly with <person>Ruan</person> 's comments , and added , " In this election the people of <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> were even more concerned about domestic issues than they were about cross-strait relations . "


The most pressing issues facing the new president are education , the environment , " black gold " politics -LRB- murky connections between the worlds of politics , business , and organized crime -RRB- , and crime fighting .


When Nobel laureate Lee Yuan - tseh came out in support of Chen Shui - bian , implying that the DPP represented " the progressive forces in society , " Chen 's support jumped immediately upward .

When <work_of_art>Nobel</work_of_art> laureate <person>Lee Yuan - tseh</person> came out in support of <person>Chen Shui - bian</person> , implying that the <org>DPP</org> represented " the progressive forces in society , " <person>Chen</person> 's support jumped immediately upward .


Virtually everyone at the seminar was in agreement that it is neither advisable nor necessary to seek a quick solution to the cross-strait issue , and that Taiwan need only avoid stirring up Chinese nationalism .

Virtually everyone at the seminar was in agreement that it is neither advisable nor necessary to seek a quick solution to the cross-strait issue , and that <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> need only avoid stirring up <norp>Chinese</norp> nationalism .


Wei Chengsi -LRB- news director at ATV news in Hong Kong and a former director of policy research in the public relations department of the municipal party committee in Shanghai -RRB- emphasized the fluid nature of Beijing 's policy on Taiwan .

<person>Wei Chengsi</person> -LRB- news director at <org>ATV</org> news in <gpe>Hong Kong</gpe> and a former director of policy research in the public relations department of the municipal party committee in <gpe>Shanghai</gpe> -RRB- emphasized the fluid nature of <gpe>Beijing</gpe> 's policy on <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> .


He feels that the mainland authorities face many more pressing issues than Taiwan , and that the current tension basically stems from President Lee Teng - hui 's pronouncement on state - to - state relations .

He feels that the mainland authorities face many more pressing issues than <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> , and that the current tension basically stems from President <person>Lee Teng - hui</person> 's pronouncement on state - to - state relations .


Having been through the Tiananmen massacre , Wei felt compelled to warn the people of Taiwan , " You absolutely must not think the way the students did in Beijing in '89 .

Having been through <event>the Tiananmen massacre</event> , <person>Wei</person> felt compelled to warn the people of <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> , " You absolutely must not think the way the students did in <gpe>Beijing</gpe> in <date>'89</date> .


You must not think that ' the communists wo n't attack because the US wo n't let them , ' and then go out of your way to provoke them to where they no longer have an out .

You must not think that ' the communists wo n't attack because the <gpe>US</gpe> wo n't let them , ' and then go out of your way to provoke them to where they no longer have an out .


Under the wrong circumstances , failure to display strong Chinese nationalism could spell political suicide for a Communist Party leader , and he might well decide , ' To hell with the US and economic development , I 've got to attack if I 'm to stay in power . '

Under the wrong circumstances , failure to display strong <norp>Chinese</norp> nationalism could spell political suicide for a <org>Communist Party</org> leader , and he might well decide , ' To hell with the <gpe>US</gpe> and economic development , I 've got to attack if I 'm to stay in power . '


That would be an incredible disaster . "


Chiu Hsiang - chung , chief editor of the Hong Kong Economic Journal , also advocated cautious optimism .

<person>Chiu Hsiang - chung</person> , chief editor of <org>the Hong Kong Economic Journal</org> , also advocated cautious optimism .


In his view , there has been no fundamental change in the cross-strait relationship , but he listed a few variables that bear close watching .


The first is the combination of nationalism and Jiang Zemin 's desire to serve another term as Secretary General of the Communist Party and make his mark on history .

The <ordinal>first</ordinal> is the combination of nationalism and <person>Jiang Zemin 's</person> desire to serve another term as Secretary General of <org>the Communist Party</org> and make his mark on history .


Could he attempt to use nationalism to further his ambition ?


Second , the People 's Liberation Army hopes to parlay the Taiwan issue into increased influence in domestic politics .

<ordinal>Second</ordinal> , <org>the People 's Liberation Army</org> hopes to parlay the <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> issue into increased influence in domestic politics .


Third , Taiwan could make mistakes and give the Chinese Communists an excuse for military action .

<ordinal>Third</ordinal> , <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> could make mistakes and give <norp>the Chinese Communists</norp> an excuse for military action .


And a fourth factor is the wishy - washy American support for Taiwan .

And a <ordinal>fourth</ordinal> factor is the wishy - washy <norp>American</norp> support for <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> .


If all of these variables combined in the wrong way , the military authorities could make a miscalculation that would lead to war .


When hawk meets hawk


Chou Chi - ping -LRB- senior advisor at Business Weekly -RRB- and Tseng Fu - sheng -LRB- general secretary of the KMT 's Department of Mainland Operations -RRB- felt that the future of cross-strait relations is still up in the air .

<person>Chou Chi - ping</person> -LRB- senior advisor at <org>Business Weekly</org> -RRB- and <person>Tseng Fu - sheng</person> -LRB- general secretary of the <org>KMT</org> 's <org>Department of Mainland Operations</org> -RRB- felt that the future of cross-strait relations is still up in the air .


Chou , as a former official with the Straits Exchange Foundation , has had direct dealings with the Chinese Communists .

<person>Chou</person> , as a former official with <org>the Straits Exchange Foundation</org> , has had direct dealings with <norp>the Chinese Communists</norp> .


He argued that the DPP 's view of the mainland has always been colored by ideology , and thus take a dim view of the other side .

He argued that the <org>DPP</org> 's view of the mainland has always been colored by ideology , and thus take a dim view of the other side .


It is true , acknowledges Chou , that Chen Shui - bian has changed his basic stance and now says that he " will not change the country 's name , declare independence , or seek to enshrine the state - to - state principle in the constitution . "

It is true , acknowledges <person>Chou</person> , that <person>Chen Shui - bian</person> has changed his basic stance and now says that he " will not change the country 's name , declare independence , or seek to enshrine the state - to - state principle in the constitution . "


It is also true that Lee Yuan - tseh -LRB- who is highly respected in the mainland for his academic achievements -RRB- has vouched for the sensibility of Chen 's approach to cross-strait relations .

It is also true that <person>Lee Yuan - tseh</person> -LRB- who is highly respected in the mainland for his academic achievements -RRB- has vouched for the sensibility of <person>Chen</person> 's approach to cross-strait relations .


And yes , once again , it is true that the Chinese Communists have muted their rhetoric considerably .

And yes , once again , it is true that <norp>the Chinese Communists</norp> have muted their rhetoric considerably .


Nevertheless , the two sides view each other with suspicion .

Nevertheless , the <cardinal>two</cardinal> sides view each other with suspicion .


If the Chinese Communists conclude that Taiwan 's leadership has dropped its insistence on formal independence only to pursue a policy that includes de facto independence as its aim , Chou argued that this will introduce a note of uncertainty into the relationship .

If <norp>the Chinese Communists</norp> conclude that <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> 's leadership has dropped its insistence on formal independence only to pursue a policy that includes de facto independence as its aim , <person>Chou</person> argued that this will introduce a note of uncertainty into the relationship .


Tseng Fu - sheng feels that Taiwan should claim the high ground by holding up its experience in democratization as an example for the Chinese Communists .

<person>Tseng Fu - sheng</person> feels that <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> should claim the high ground by holding up its experience in democratization as an example for <norp>the Chinese Communists</norp> .


Says Tseng , " Reunification depends entirely on whether China can democratize . "

Says Tseng , " Reunification depends entirely on whether <gpe>China</gpe> can democratize . "


His biggest worry is that the deep gulf between the DPP and the mainland authorities could cause them to misread each other .

His biggest worry is that the deep gulf between the <org>DPP</org> and the mainland authorities could cause them to misread each other .


He stressed that there are both doves and hawks on all sides of the trilateral relationship between Beijing , Washington , and Taipei .

He stressed that there are both doves and hawks on all sides of the trilateral relationship between <gpe>Beijing</gpe> , <gpe>Washington</gpe> , and <gpe>Taipei</gpe> .


If the hawks gained the upper hand at the same time in all three capitals , opined Tseng , the result could be war .

If the hawks gained the upper hand at the same time in all three capitals , opined <person>Tseng</person> , the result could be war .


The seminar attendants also examined Taiwan 's domestic situation .

The seminar attendants also examined <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> 's domestic situation .


Versatile author and cultural commentator Ping Lu offered some very incisive comments regarding the post-election protests outside the KMT headquarters .

Versatile author and cultural commentator <person>Ping Lu</person> offered some very incisive comments regarding the post-election protests outside the <org>KMT</org> headquarters .


In demanding that Lee Teng - hui resign as chairman of the KMT to take responsibility for the election defeat , Ping -LRB- herself a second - generation " mainlander " -RRB- argued that the protest revealed an ethnic fault line in Taiwanese society .

In demanding that <person>Lee Teng - hui</person> resign as chairman of the <org>KMT</org> to take responsibility for the election defeat , <person>Ping</person> -LRB- herself a second - generation " mainlander " -RRB- argued that the protest revealed an ethnic fault line in <norp>Taiwanese</norp> society .


It was a venting of mass frustration on the part of one particular ethnic group , said Ping , noting that most of the protesters were mainlanders .

It was a venting of mass frustration on the part of one particular ethnic group , said <person>Ping</person> , noting that most of the protesters were mainlanders .


This group feels a loss of status , for during the many decades of KMT rule they have always thought of themselves as a privileged " majority " in Taiwan even though in fact they are a minority .

This group feels a loss of status , for during the many decades of <org>KMT</org> rule they have always thought of themselves as a privileged " majority " in <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> even though in fact they are a minority .


They do not identify with Taiwan as their home , and they have an unconscious feeling of superiority vis - a - vis the local majority .

They do not identify with <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> as their home , and they have an unconscious feeling of superiority vis - a - vis the local majority .


In some ways the election has forced them to realize that they truly are a minority .


This development should help to bring about long - lasting ethnic harmony in Taiwan .

This development should help to bring about long - lasting ethnic harmony in <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> .


The participants generally felt that the election was a victory for democracy .


On the domestic front , the victory of Chen Shui - bian showed that people want more democracy , greater respect for human rights , and a more serious effort to banish " black gold " from the political arena .

On the domestic front , the victory of <person>Chen Shui - bian</person> showed that people want more democracy , greater respect for human rights , and a more serious effort to banish " black gold " from the political arena .


In cross-strait relations Chen 's victory spells the end of an era in which the cross-strait relationship was conducted within the framework of a civil war between he KMT and the Chinese Communist Party .

In cross-strait relations <person>Chen</person> 's victory spells the end of an era in which the cross-strait relationship was conducted within the framework of a civil war between he <org>KMT</org> and <org>the Chinese Communist Party</org> .


Reform of the KMT and the formation of a new political party by James Soong will also improve the political system in Taiwan .

Reform of the <org>KMT</org> and the formation of a new political party by <person>James Soong</person> will also improve the political system in <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> .


It appears that the people of Taiwan have finally taken their first bold step into an era of true democracy , and a mature political system is no longer a distant prospect .

It appears that the people of <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> have finally taken their <ordinal>first</ordinal> bold step into an era of true democracy , and a mature political system is no longer a distant prospect .


President Chen Travels Abroad

<work_of_art>President Chen Travels Abroad</work_of_art>


-LRB- Chang Chiung - fang / tr. by David Mayer -RRB-

-LRB- <person>Chang Chiung - fang</person> / tr. by <person>David Mayer</person> -RRB-


President Chen Shui - bian visited the Nicaraguan National Assembly on August 17 , where he received a medal from the president of the assembly , Ivan Escobar Fornos .

President <person>Chen Shui - bian</person> visited <fac>the Nicaraguan National Assembly</fac> on <date>August 17</date> , where he received a medal from the president of the assembly , <person>Ivan Escobar Fornos</person> .


-LRB- photo by Wu Chi - chang , Central News Agency -RRB-

-LRB- photo by <person>Wu Chi - chang</person> , <org>Central News Agency</org> -RRB-


On August 25 President Chen Shui - bian wrapped up his first overseas trip since taking office , swinging through three countries in Latin America and another three in Africa .

On <date>August 25</date> President <person>Chen Shui - bian</person> wrapped up his <ordinal>first</ordinal> overseas trip since taking office , swinging through <cardinal>three</cardinal> countries in <loc>Latin America</loc> and another <cardinal>three</cardinal> in <loc>Africa</loc> .


While in the Dominican Republic to attend the inauguration of President Hipolito Mejia , Chen had a chance to meet with the leaders of many different nations .

While in <gpe>the Dominican Republic</gpe> to attend the inauguration of President <person>Hipolito Mejia</person> , <person>Chen</person> had a chance to meet with the leaders of many different nations .


The president signed joint communiques with Nicaragua , Gambia , and Chad , and agreed to provide US$ 4.6 million worth of loans to the Dominican Republic to serve as a guarantee to help the latter secure a loan from the International Monetary Fund .

The president signed joint communiques with <gpe>Nicaragua</gpe> , <gpe>Gambia</gpe> , and <gpe>Chad</gpe> , and agreed to provide <money>US$ 4.6 million</money> worth of loans to <gpe>the Dominican Republic</gpe> to serve as a guarantee to help the latter secure a loan from <org>the International Monetary Fund</org> .


" We can not use pressure from Beijing as an excuse for our diplomatic setbacks , " said Chen , who used concrete actions to demonstrate to ROC 's allies that our country has no intention of pulling back from its diplomatic partnerships ; on the contrary , the ROC will be working even harder than before .

" We can not use pressure from <gpe>Beijing</gpe> as an excuse for our diplomatic setbacks , " said <person>Chen</person> , who used concrete actions to demonstrate to <gpe>ROC</gpe> 's allies that our country has no intention of pulling back from its diplomatic partnerships ; on the contrary , the <gpe>ROC</gpe> will be working even harder than before .


Chen Shui - bian left on August 13 for a 13 - day trip that included state visits to the Latin American nations of the Dominican Republic , Nicaragua , Costa Rica , as well as the west African nations of Gambia , Burkina Faso , and Chad .

<gpe>Chen Shui - bian</gpe> left on <date>August 13</date> for a <date>13 - day</date> trip that included state visits to the <quantity>Latin American</quantity> nations of <gpe>the Dominican Republic</gpe> , <gpe>Nicaragua</gpe> , <gpe>Costa Rica</gpe> , as well as the <norp>west African</norp> nations of <gpe>Gambia</gpe> , <gpe>Burkina Faso</gpe> , and <gpe>Chad</gpe> .


Before boarding the plane on the 13th , Chen Shui - bian delivered a short speech in which he stated , " Taiwan must stand up and be counted . "

Before boarding the plane on the <ordinal>13th</ordinal> , <person>Chen Shui - bian</person> delivered a short speech in which he stated , " <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> must stand up and be counted . "


The purpose of this trip , said Chen , is to share Taiwan 's experiences with other countries , and he also indicated the hope that this trip would help to solidify Taiwan 's diplomatic relations .

The purpose of this trip , said <person>Chen</person> , is to share <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> 's experiences with other countries , and he also indicated the hope that this trip would help to solidify <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> 's diplomatic relations .


The entourage was the largest ever to accompany an ROC president abroad , and included : Chuang Ming - yao -LRB- secretary - general , National Security Council -RRB- , Tien Hung - mao -LRB- minister of foreign affairs -RRB- , Lin Hsin - yi -LRB- minister of economic affairs -RRB- , Chen Po - chih -LRB- chairman , Council of Economic Planning and Development -RRB- , Chen Hsi - huang -LRB- chairman , Council of Agriculture -RRB- , Chung Chin -LRB- head of the Government Information Office -RRB- , Jeffrey Koo -LRB- chairman of the National Association of Industry and Commerce -RRB- , Wang Yu - tseng -LRB- chairman of the General Chamber of Commerce of the ROC -RRB- , and Lin Kun - chung -LRB- chairman of the Chinese National Federation of Industries -RRB- .

The entourage was the largest ever to accompany an <gpe>ROC</gpe> president abroad , and included : <person>Chuang Ming - yao</person> -LRB- secretary - general , <org>National Security Council</org> -RRB- , <person>Tien Hung - mao</person> -LRB- minister of foreign affairs -RRB- , <person>Lin Hsin - yi</person> -LRB- minister of economic affairs -RRB- , <person>Chen Po - chih</person> -LRB- chairman , <org>Council of Economic Planning and Development</org> -RRB- , <person>Chen Hsi - huang</person> -LRB- chairman , <org>Council of Agriculture</org> -RRB- , <person>Chung Chin</person> -LRB- head of <org>the Government Information Office</org> -RRB- , <person>Jeffrey Koo</person> -LRB- chairman of <org>the National Association of Industry and Commerce</org> -RRB- , <person>Wang Yu - tseng</person> -LRB- chairman of <org>the General Chamber of Commerce of the ROC</org> -RRB- , and <person>Lin Kun - chung</person> -LRB- chairman of <org>the Chinese National Federation of Industries</org> -RRB- .


There were also many legislators in the delegation , including Hung Chi - chang , Helen Chu , Feng Ting - kuo , and Li Yin - yun .

There were also many legislators in the delegation , including <person>Hung Chi - chang</person> , <person>Helen Chu</person> , <person>Feng Ting - kuo</person> , and <person>Li Yin - yun</person> .


-LRB- Li is soon to assume a position as deputy director of the ROC diplomatic post in Washington , DC . -RRB-

-LRB- <person>Li</person> is soon to assume a position as deputy director of the <gpe>ROC</gpe> diplomatic post in <gpe>Washington , DC</gpe> . -RRB-


The total size of the delegation came to nearly 200 people , including more than 50 journalists .

The total size of the delegation came to nearly <cardinal>200</cardinal> people , including more than <cardinal>50</cardinal> journalists .


The president kept to a very tight schedule during the trip .


After a brief stopover in Los Angeles on the 13th , Chen continued on and reached the Dominican Republic on the 14th .

After a brief stopover in <gpe>Los Angeles</gpe> on the <ordinal>13th</ordinal> , <person>Chen</person> continued on and reached <gpe>the Dominican Republic</gpe> on the <ordinal>14th</ordinal> .


He attended the presidential inauguration there on the 16th , and was able to meet with the leaders and representatives of friendly nations from around the world .

He attended the presidential inauguration there on the <ordinal>16th</ordinal> , and was able to meet with the leaders and representatives of friendly nations from around the world .


On the 17th he continued on to Nicaragua , where he met with President Arnoldo Aleman and delivered a speech to the Nicaraguan National Assembly .

On the <ordinal>17th</ordinal> he continued on to <gpe>Nicaragua</gpe> , where he met with President <person>Arnoldo Aleman</person> and delivered a speech to <org>the Nicaraguan National Assembly</org> .


On the 18th , presidents Chen and Aleman signed a joint communique before Chen Shui - bian departed for Costa Rica , where he received the Great Cross of Juan Mora Fernandez , a gold medal which is the nation 's highest award .

On the <ordinal>18th</ordinal> , presidents <person>Chen</person> and <person>Aleman</person> signed a joint communique before <person>Chen Shui - bian</person> departed for <gpe>Costa Rica</gpe> , where he received <work_of_art>the Great Cross of Juan Mora Fernandez</work_of_art> , a gold medal which is the nation 's highest award .


On the 20th he flew across the Atlantic Ocean to Gambia to meet with Gambian President Yahya Jameh before heading on to Burkina Faso and a dinner with President Blaise Compaore .

On the <ordinal>20th</ordinal> he flew across <loc>the Atlantic Ocean</loc> to <gpe>Gambia</gpe> to meet with <norp>Gambian</norp> President <person>Yahya Jameh</person> before heading on to <gpe>Burkina Faso</gpe> and a dinner with President <person>Blaise Compaore</person> .


On the 23rd Chen delivered a speech to the Gambian parliament .

On the <ordinal>23rd</ordinal> <person>Chen</person> delivered a speech to <org>the Gambian parliament</org> .


The next stop on the itinerary was Chad , where Chen dined with Chad 's President Idris Debi .

The next stop on the itinerary was <gpe>Chad</gpe> , where <person>Chen</person> dined with <gpe>Chad</gpe> 's President <person>Idris Debi</person> .


On the 25th Chen and Debi signed a joint communique and held a press conference before heading back to Taiwan slightly ahead of schedule to oversee efforts to deal with the powerful Typhoon Bilis .

On the <ordinal>25th</ordinal> <person>Chen</person> and <person>Debi</person> signed a joint communique and held a press conference before heading back to <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> slightly ahead of schedule to oversee efforts to deal with the powerful <event>Typhoon Bilis</event> .


Chen 's stopover in Los Angeles was a sensitive subject , for Chen had originally planned an informal meeting with several members of the US Congress .

<person>Chen</person> 's stopover in <gpe>Los Angeles</gpe> was a sensitive subject , for <person>Chen</person> had originally planned an informal meeting with several members of <org>the US Congress</org> .


After furious protests from Beijing and discouragement from the US State Department , however , Chen canceled the plan just the day before arriving in Los Angeles .

After furious protests from <gpe>Beijing</gpe> and discouragement from <org>the US State Department</org> , however , <person>Chen</person> canceled the plan just <date>the day before</date> arriving in <gpe>Los Angeles</gpe> .


A crowd of 500 to 600 Taiwanese living in the United States showed up to greet the president at his hotel and protest against the US government 's " caving in to Beijing at the expense of Taiwan . "

A crowd of <cardinal>500</cardinal> to <cardinal>600</cardinal> <norp>Taiwanese</norp> living in <gpe>the United States</gpe> showed up to greet the president at his hotel and protest against <org>the US government 's</org> " caving in to <gpe>Beijing</gpe> at the expense of <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> . "


When Chen arrived on the 14th in the Dominican Republic , he was greeted at the airport by over 100 representatives of the Taiwanese business community there , and more than 700 Taiwanese residents threw a party for the president that night at his hotel .

When <person>Chen</person> arrived on the <ordinal>14th</ordinal> in <gpe>the Dominican Republic</gpe> , he was greeted at the airport by over <cardinal>100</cardinal> representatives of the <norp>Taiwanese</norp> business community there , and more than <cardinal>700</cardinal> <norp>Taiwanese</norp> residents threw a party for the president that night at his hotel .


The next day , Chen took advantage of the upcoming presidential inauguration to meet with leaders from a number of countries with which the ROC has diplomatic relations , including the vice-president of El Salvador and the second vice president of Panama .

The next day , <person>Chen</person> took advantage of the upcoming presidential inauguration to meet with leaders from a number of countries with which the <gpe>ROC</gpe> has diplomatic relations , including the vice-president of <gpe>El Salvador</gpe> and the second vice president of <gpe>Panama</gpe> .


On the 16th Chen attended the inauguration of President Hipolito Mejia .

On the <ordinal>16th</ordinal> <person>Chen</person> attended the inauguration of President <person>Hipolito Mejia</person> .


The ROC contingent was larger than any other at the ceremony .

The <gpe>ROC</gpe> contingent was larger than any other at the ceremony .


The ROC currently has diplomatic relations with 29 countries , half of which are located in Latin America and the Caribbean .

The <gpe>ROC</gpe> currently has diplomatic relations with <cardinal>29</cardinal> countries , half of which are located in <loc>Latin America</loc> and the <loc>Caribbean</loc> .


In recent years , however , mainland China has continually upgraded its trade links with the ROC 's diplomatic partners .

In recent years , however , mainland <gpe>China</gpe> has continually upgraded its trade links with the <gpe>ROC</gpe> 's diplomatic partners .


The allegiance of a number of these countries may be put to the test in the coming years by various political and economic considerations .


In the case of the Dominican Republic , for example , supporters of President Mejia announced to the media on the eve of President Chen 's arrival that mainland China was planning to build a large thermal power plant in their country .

In the case of <gpe>the Dominican Republic</gpe> , for example , supporters of President <person>Mejia</person> announced to the media on the eve of President <person>Chen</person> 's arrival that mainland <gpe>China</gpe> was planning to build a large thermal power plant in their country .


In addition , the Dominican Republic is seeking a seat on the UN Security Council in 2002 , and will certainly be lobbying for Beijing 's support .

In addition , <gpe>the Dominican Republic</gpe> is seeking a seat on <org>the UN Security Council</org> in <date>2002</date> , and will certainly be lobbying for <gpe>Beijing</gpe> 's support .


This situation could affect relations with Taiwan .

This situation could affect relations with <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> .


On the bright side , Taiwan has scored a few points of its own in this diplomatic tug of war .

On the bright side , <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> has scored a few points of its own in this diplomatic tug of war .


When Chen arrived in Costa Rica on the 18th , his hosts departed from the pattern of the past few years by promising to support the ROC s bid for membership in the United Nations .

When <person>Chen</person> arrived in <gpe>Costa Rica</gpe> on the <ordinal>18th</ordinal> , his hosts departed from the pattern of <date>the past few years</date> by promising to support the <gpe>ROC</gpe> s bid for membership in <org>the United Nations</org> .


Costa Rica 's President Miguel Rodriguez also accompanied President Chen on a tour of a Taiwanese export processing zone , an orchid farm run by Taiwan Sugar Corporation , and a vocational training school .

<gpe>Costa Rica 's</gpe> President <person>Miguel Rodriguez</person> also accompanied President <person>Chen</person> on a tour of a <norp>Taiwanese</norp> export processing zone , an orchid farm run by <org>Taiwan Sugar Corporation</org> , and a vocational training school .


President Chen departed on the 20th for Africa , where the ROC has eight diplomatic partners .

President <person>Chen</person> departed on the <ordinal>20th</ordinal> for <loc>Africa</loc> , where the <gpe>ROC</gpe> has eight diplomatic partners .


Chen Shui - bian is the first ROC president ever to travel to western Africa .

<person>Chen Shui - bian</person> is the <ordinal>first</ordinal> <gpe>ROC</gpe> president ever to travel to <loc>western Africa</loc> .


There is little two - way trade between Taiwan and any of the three countries on Chen 's African itinerary .

There is little <cardinal>two</cardinal> - way trade between <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> and any of the <cardinal>three</cardinal> countries on <person>Chen</person> 's <norp>African</norp> itinerary .


Instead , agricultural and economic assistance constitute the mainstays of our diplomatic ties with these countries .


Taiwanese agricultural specialists stationed in Burkina Faso have converted 1,000 hectares of desert to arable land , while Taiwanese specialists sent to Gambia have successfully transplanted tomatoes , green beans , okra , and various leafy vegetables from Taiwan and raised them on Gambian soil .

<norp>Taiwanese</norp> agricultural specialists stationed in <gpe>Burkina Faso</gpe> have converted <quantity>1,000 hectares</quantity> of desert to arable land , while <norp>Taiwanese</norp> specialists sent to <gpe>Gambia</gpe> have successfully transplanted tomatoes , green beans , okra , and various leafy vegetables from <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> and raised them on <norp>Gambian</norp> soil .


In addition to this type of technical assistance , Taiwan has also assisted with various infrastructure projects .

In addition to this type of technical assistance , <gpe>Taiwan</gpe> has also assisted with various infrastructure projects .


Taiwan 's most notable contribution to Gambia 's infrastructure is the main terminal at the airport .

<gpe>Taiwan</gpe> 's most notable contribution to <gpe>Gambia</gpe> 's infrastructure is the main terminal at the airport .