While receiving a visiting group of Canadian congressmen yesterday, Vice President-elect Annette Lu (
Lu's latest comment was directed at visiting Beijing scholar Yu Keli (
Yu complained on Thursday that the newly elected president Chen Shui-bian (
Lu retorted that if "one China" referred to the Peoples Republic of China (PRC), then Taiwanese were not Chinese.
"Of course we are not Chinese, if `one China' means the PRC. However, we do not deny we are a Chinese-speaking people (
"We have shown our utmost amicability when we consider China to be our next-door neighbor, but a distant relative," she said.
She also said that the two sides should not resort to war merely because of the barbs traded over whether the "one China" principle is a "precondition" (
Moreover, she called on Chinese authorities to concentrate first on their domestic problems.
"We are willing to offer [Taiwan's] experience. Taiwan will not initiate any confrontation against China. Peaceful communication across the Strait will best benefit both sides," Lu said.
Meanwhile, Lu's recent bold comments have triggered various reactions among officials.
Mainland Affairs Council vice chairman Lin Chong-pin (
Heated discussions were also ignited in the legislature yesterday. DPP legislator Yu Jan-daw (
KMT legislator Wu Ching-chih (
Yu's visit was intended to be a low-key educational tour by Chinese scholars.
Five Chinese researchers led by Yu arrived in Taiwan on Wednesday to conduct a cultural exchange. Upon their arrival, Yu told the media that China was extremely displeased with Lu's recent words and deeds and believed she still supported Taiwan independence.
Yu also said there was no need for him to apologize for China's recent attacks on Lu in which she was dubbed "scum of the nation."
Yu's group continued its trip yesterday meeting with high-ranking New Party officials.
New Party lawmaker Hao Lung-ping (
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