The long-awaited meeting between President Chen Shui-bian (
The meeting was not meant to seek a solution to the problems; rather, it was a starting point. The hope is that it will lead to more amicable competition between the two sides in the future. It was, in essence, a political debate, but it was not a contest to determine a winner or a loser.
There was no set agenda but the discussion encompassed a wide range of issues. These included the so-called "1992 consensus," as well as Ma's proposed interim framework for relations with China and Beijing's likely reaction to this proposal. Chen and Ma also touched on the arms procurement proposal, the National Unification Council and its guidelines and constitutional change.
The meeting, which lasted a little over two hours, is an invaluable source of information for the public and a major reference point for anyone interested in Taiwanese affairs.
Chen and Ma continued to differ on the term and meaning of the so-called "1992 consensus." Chen said that he could not find any official documentation to support its existence, adding that it was a fabrication made up by former Mainland Affairs Council chairman Su Chi (
Although the pan-blue and pan-green camps may hold opposing views on cross-strait policy, their differences are no greater than the disparity between Taiwan and China. Chen has now put the ball in China's court. If China fails to adopt a flexible approach, neither Ma's interim agreement nor Chen's proposal to establish a peaceful, stable framework for interaction between the two sides will mean anything.
Chen and Ma are long-time rivals, but their discussion yesterday was conducted in a rational, composed manner. Although the meeting was never expected to completely thaw the icy relations between the government and the opposition, it brings new hope for Taiwanese politics and could create a win-win situation for Chen, Ma and Taiwan. Subsequent meetings between the two leaders don't have to be another media extravaganza, but they should continue to be held to exchange ideas. When this happens, Taiwanese politics will have truly become more mature.
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