It is extremely disconcerting to see Ma Ying-jeou making mixed and oftentimes contradictory statements about the solutions to cross-strait tensions during his "grand tour" of Europe.
What does he mean by saying that the course of peace still needs to be pursued vigorously in spite of the 700 missiles aimed at Taiwan, after first endorsing the idea that there can be no talk of peace until the missiles are removed?
These sort of outpourings put any person with common sense in awe. It is insane sophistry at best. How can any rational being think it's a viable proposition to negotiate peace with a thug brandishing his gun? One has a better chance when playing Russian roulette.
Is this the man who wants to claim the presidency in the year 2008? One shudders to think of the consequences if indeed he gets that far.
We may come to diverse conclusions about this man's contradictory and shifty remarks. But one thing we know for sure is that behind Ma's words, lurks the spirit of a trimmer.
Perhaps this should not be construed as a detestable strategy in view of his eagerness to please everybody. But it is definitely a disaster in the context of Taiwan becoming a truly sovereign nation. How much longer can Taiwan afford to vacillate in the international arena?
Anyone can see that Ma's overseas trip is nothing but an endeavor to generate more publicity to show off to the folks back home. It is not something that the president can do everyday. But, to expect more from Ma would be an insult to one's intelligence. After all, pretty is what pretty does.
Yang Chun-hui
Salt Lake City, Utah
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