KMT will not exclude presenting resolution on U.N. bid
ROC Central News Agency
2008-02-21 20:34:34
Taipei, Feb. 21 (CNA) Opposition Kuomintang (KMT) Chairman Wu Poh-hsiung said Thursday that his party will not exclude presenting a resolution in the legislature on Taiwan's desire to join the United Nations.
Wu made the remarks after attending a seminar on legislative affairs held by a KMT thinktank in Taipei. His remarks came at a time when both the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and the KMT are promoting their own versions of a U.N. bid referendum to be held alongside the March 22 presidential election.
The DPP's version focuses on joining the United Nations under the name Taiwan, which has encountered strong opposition from the United States and several European countries, while KMT's referendum proposal advocates regaining U.N. membership under the name Republic of China or another "suitable" name.
Describing the holding of referendums as an inevitable step for Taiwan on its march toward full democracy, President Chen Shui-bian has expressed hope that both parties can reach a consensus on the U.N. bid referendum and has suggested that the Legislative Yuan present a third referendum as another option.
However, Wu said his party will not support the third referendum, but might present a resolution in the legislature at an appropriate time to illustrate the desire of Taiwan's people to participate in world organizations.
Considering the slim chances of the two parties reaching a consensus on the U.N. bid referendum, KMT Secretary-General Wu Den-yih claimed recently that a resolution passed by the legislature can more clearly demonstrate public opinions. "We welcome the participation of the DPP in the wording of the resolution," Wu added.
(By Elisa Kao)
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