Taiwan: Reasonable opening only way to influence China

Taiwan: Reasonable opening only way to influence China

June 16, 2011 - President Ma Ying-jeou says cross-strait peace is beneficial to both Taiwan and Mainland China . Ma was speaking in a recent interview with the BBC.

During the interview, Ma said that Taiwan cannot avoid engagement with Mainland China . That's due to their close proximity and to Mainland China 's growing economic clout. Mainland China is already the world's second largest economy, and the dependence between Mainland China and its neighboring countries is also on the increase.

Ma also said Taiwan must open up to Mainland China in a reasonable manner so that Taiwan can also have an influence on the Mainland.

The president said Mainland China offers opportunities and risks for Taiwan . But Taiwan must "minimize the risks and maximize the opportunity". In that way, the two sides can have a reasonable and mutually-beneficial relationship.

President Ma also said Taiwan 's improved trade ties with Mainland China have prompted other countries to hold similar talks with Taiwan . Taiwan 's trade volume with the United States , Southeast Asia , Japan and Europe has increased.

Regarding Mainland China 's missiles targeting Taiwan , President Ma said Taiwan 's security relies on three defenses. These are the institutionalization of cross-strait ties, the increase in Taiwan 's international profile, and the use of defense and diplomacy.

Mainland China does pose challenges to Taiwan , and the president said Taiwan must deal with Beijing cautiously. Ma said Taiwan wants to be a peace maker rather than a trouble maker.

ENDS

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