Vice chairman of the MAC, Chen Ming-tong (
Her logic clear, words carefully chosen
"Her logic is clear and she is exceptionally cautious, which can avoid provoking the Chinese side," he said.
But some reporters complain that Tsai's remarks usually contain nothing but political language.
Tsai once explained herself to reporters that her cautiousness is for the good of avoiding misunderstanding, since every word she says will represent Taiwan's attitude toward China.
Though agile -- Tsai shifted her stance from former president Lee's "no haste, be patient" policy to President Chen's "active opening, effective management" policy -- Chinese authorities still view her as a "stubborn" pro-independence separatist since she has a clear record endorsing Lee's "two states" theory.
But the image of the competent political figure cannot apply to the unmarried chairwoman's personal daily life. She describes herself as an "idiot in life."
"I always forget to bring my purse with me. When I have appointments with friends, my secretary always asks about whether I have money to pay the bill," she once said during a private occasion.
The "idiot in life" image might not match up with her role on the political stage. But contradictory traits mixed up in her personality make her different and have had no negative influence on her political career.
The successful trip to Washington has proved again that Tsai will be the most trusted mover and shaker when it comes to cross-strait policy in the coming two years that President Chen has left in office.
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