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LETTERS: Go West, Mr. Ma

President-elect Ma Ying-jeou's (馬英九) wish to visit Washington and his alma mater, Harvard University, before his inauguration in May is not wishful thinking. It is pragmatic and will likely serve the mutual interests of the US and Taiwan in a diverse manner.

In view of the fact that the cross-strait relationship between China and Taiwan has been visibly improved immediately following Taiwan's presidential election, a progressive event and a source of pride to people in Chinese-speaking communities worldwide. It is advisable that Ma be welcomed to visit the US in the capacity of an academic or a common visitor.

Since China is preoccupied with the Tibetan violence as well as the forthcoming Olympics, a visit by Ma to the US would not invite fret or protest. Instead, a low-key visit would serve pragmatic functions that could shed new light on US policy in dealing with the Asia-Pacific region.

A Chinese saying is appropriate here: Bigotry should be resolved with harmony and good understanding. In this way, full-fledged harmonious multilateral relations will be ensured.

The US should give serious consideration to Ma's possible visit before May.

Li Chen-ching

Taipei
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