Taiwan Tati Cultural and Educational Foundation

Chen’s fate needs to be determined by doctors

Chen Yao-chang 陳耀昌

About two weeks ago there were reports that former president Chen Shui-bian (陳水扁), currently serving a prison sentence, was feeling some discomfort in his chest and suffering from shortness of breath. He was diagnosed with coronary heart disease (CHD) and heart failure by the prison doctor, and was later said to be experiencing severe headaches. Chen’s family and lawyers subsequently applied for a temporary prison release to arrange further medical examinations.

However, the warden of Taipei Prison said Chen’s illness was “not as serious as expected,” implying that a “medical parole” was unnecessary.

Pro-independence groups rebuke Hsieh constitution proposal

Taipei Times

Ten of the nation’s largest pro--independence organizations yesterday issued a blunt rebuke to former premier Frank Hsieh (謝長廷) over his suggestion that Taiwan use the Republic of China (ROC) Constitution in future negotiations with China.

The Taiwan Society, Alliance of Referendum for Taiwan and other groups said Hsieh’s ideas on a “constitutional consensus” would undermine Taiwan’s sovereignty.

PRC defense chief objects to US arms sales

Taipei Times

Chinese Minister of National Defense General Liang Guanglie (梁光烈) reiterated his country’s objections to US arms sales to Taiwan during a meeting with US Secretary of Defense Robert Gates in Beijing on Monday.

“China’s position has been clear and consistent — we are against it,” he told a joint press conference with Gates, who is on a four-day visit to China.

Japan’s opposition calls for closer ties with Taiwan, FTA

Taipei Times

A high-ranking politician in Japan’s main opposition party yesterday called for closer Japan-Taiwan relations and bilateral free-trade agreement (FTA) negotiations.

Speaking at the Commonwealth Economic Forum in Taipei organized by Commonwealth Magazine with the theme of “The Rise of New Asia: Asia’s Conflicts, Growth and the New Future,” Yuriko Koike, chairwoman of the General Council under the Liberal Democratic Party, also said a strong Japan-US relationship would serve Taiwan’s interests.

More Articles...