Taiwan Tati Cultural and Educational Foundation

President Ma is not the only problem

Michael Danielsen

Taiwan’s democratic development and its self-determination are challenged not only by President Ma Ying-jeou (馬英九), but also by the policies of the Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT). Unfortunately, there seems to be a strong focus on Ma’s low popularity and his competence as a president, rather than on the KMT as a party.

The KMT deserves more attention. Just because the KMT has been on the wrong side of democracy in the past and has enforced a Chinese mentality on the Taiwanese while dreaming of unification, it does not mean that the party is now handling these issues better. Indeed, it now seems to be finding new ways to achieve old agendas.

Chen scheduled for operation today to treat sleep apnea

Taipei Times

An operation has been scheduled for former president Chen Shui-bian (陳水扁) today at the Taichung Veterans General Hospital to treat a severe case of sleep apnea.

A statement released by Chen’s office yesterday said breathing disruptions have resulted in deprivation of oxygen to the brain and other health problems for the former president.

US needs to keep China in check

Paul Lin 林保華

The third generation of the Kim dynasty is now in power in North Korea. When the 29-year-old North Korean leader, Kim Jong-un, took over the helm two years ago, observers were wondering whether he would be able to consolidate his power, and there were rumors that he was about to introduce reforms.

He has now rid himself of his uncle Jang Song-thaek, who was seen as his political regent, in a manner reminiscent of how “class enemies” were ferreted out during struggle sessions during the Chinese Cultural Revolution. Jang is said to have been executed. It has been an eye-opener to see Kim display the ruthlessness that should have been expected by the “third red generation.”

Center urges US action on Taiwan’s integration

Taipei Times

Taiwan’s quest for greater participation in the international community is of great importance to all democracies, senior vice president for Asia at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), Mike Green, said on Wednesday.

“The people of Taiwan deserve — and we need to see them get — a seat at the table,” he said.

Green was presiding over a packed meeting held in a room within the US Congress to formally release a new report by CSIS senior adviser for Asia Bonnie Glaser on the nation’s need to be part of international organizations.

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