DATE=8/3/1999
TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT
TITLE=U-S-CHINA-TAIWAN (L ONLY)
NUMBER=2-252445
BYLINE=GIL BUTLER
DATELINE=WASHINGTON
CONTENT=
VOICED AT:
INTRO: The United States has expressed concern over
the increased number of air sorties being flown over
the Taiwan strait by both (mainland) China and Taiwan.
Correspondent Gil Butler reports a State Department
spokesman says the main worry is that there could be
accidental clashes.
TEXT: Spokesman James Rubin says the United States
does not believe either side should be taking steps
that increase tensions across the Taiwan Strait.
"The Washington Post" newspaper reported that Chinese
and Taiwanese fighter jets have flown hundreds of
sorties during the past three-weeks. The newspaper
quotes analysts as saying it is the sharpest
escalation in tension in three years.
Three-years ago, China launched missiles near Taiwan
and flew more than a thousand air sorties in a show of
strength that coincided with Taiwan's presidential
elections.
The most recent increase in cross-Strait tensions
began with statements made by Taiwan President Lee
Teng Hui, which Beijing has interpreted, as a move
toward independence. China considers Taiwan only a
province and reacts strongly to moves it sees as
attempts at changing that status.
Asked about the current increase in air sorties over
the Taiwan strait, Mr. Rubin urged a historic
perspective.
/// RUBIN ACT ///
Look, we have seen sortie rates much, much
higher than this in the past so I think one
should be cautious and not get alarmed by the
situation. Clearly, there are flights taking
place over the Taiwan Strait and we are
concerned about accidents. This pattern has
increased in recent weeks from low points. But,
again, if one wants to not over-state the facts,
there have been times when they have been much
higher.
/// END ACT ///
The spokesman said the United States has not seen
extraordinary developments that could mean preparation
for military action. But he urged both sides of the
Strait to exercise restraint.
Mr. Rubin said the test will be whether they can find
a way to resume a dialogue, but he acknowledged that
developments in recent weeks have made the resumption
of a cross-strait dialogue more difficult.
NEB/MGB/RAE
03-Aug-1999 13:52 PM EDT (03-Aug-1999 1752 UTC)
NNNN
Source: Voice of America
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