DATE=3/18/2000
TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT
TITLE=CLINTON - TAIWAN (L)
NUMBER=2-260325
BYLINE=DEBORAH TATE
DATELINE=WHITE HOUSE
CONTENT=
VOICED AT:
INTRO: President Clinton is congratulating the winner
of Taiwan's presidential election, Chen Shui-bian, who
has in the past called for the island's independence
from China. Mr. Clinton's comments came just hours
after the people of Taiwan ended more than a half-
century of rule by the Nationalist Party, which once
governed all of China. Correspondent Deborah Tate
reports from the White House.
Text: President Clinton says the election -- in his
words -- clearly demonstrates the strength and
vitality of Taiwan's democracy.
Mr. Chen's appeal shortly after his election victory
for a constructive dialogue with the mainland was
immediately welcomed by the U-S administration.
In a written statement, Mr. Clinton said he believes
the election provides a fresh opportunity for both
sides to reach out and resolve their differences
peacefully through dialogue.
White House Chief of Staff John Podesta echoed the
president's comments during an appearance before
reporters:
/// Podesta Act ///
The United States strongly supports a peaceful
dialogue and is committed to providing peace and
stability there.
/// End Act ///
In his statement, Mr. Clinton sought to reassure
Beijing -- which had warned the island not to elect
Mr. Chen -- that there would be no change in U-S
policy toward China or Taiwan. He said the United
States would continue unofficial ties with the people
of Taiwan through the American Institute in Taiwan and
Washington's one-China policy.
The United States had tried to ease tensions between
China and Taiwan during the campaign.
In the run-up to the election, Beijing had threatened
the use of force if necessary to achieve reunification
with Taiwan, which it considers a renegade province.
U-S officials played down the threats, which they
described as political posturing ahead of the Taiwan
vote.
The election took place as Mr. Clinton is trying to
persuade the U-S Congress to grant China permanent
normal trade relations, an important step before
Beijing is admitted to the World Trade Organization.
But the president faces an uphill battle amid
lawmakers' concerns about China's threats against
Taiwan, its human rights record and other issues.
(signed)
Neb/dat/JP
18-Mar-2000 13:13 PM EDT (18-Mar-2000 1813 UTC)
NNNN
Source: Voice of America
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