Taipei (AsiaNews/Agencies) – Authorities in Taiwan consider Beijing's threats directed against the "renegade" island seeking full independence from the mainland more an issue to be discussed and not the beginning of a new policy. However, analysts in Beijing and Taipei believe that China has issued an "ultimatum" just in time before pro-independence President Chen's inauguration ceremony. They say it was a clear indication of China's new approach toward Taiwan, one that is more resolute and belligerent than before and threatens a cross-strait military conflict.  

Chen Shuibian, whose margin of victory has now risen to 35,000 according the latest recount figures, said "there isn't anything new in the statement issued by the Taiwan Affairs Office, whose vision of the "one-China" principle differs from that of the United States."

Regarding Beijing's statement, the US State Department has issues its own comments criticizing the China's threats attacking or invading Taiwan. However, in recent months, the United States has more than once advised the Taiwanese government to take such threats seriously.

Many political analysts believe that Beijing has stepped up pressure on the United States in order that the Americans will convince Chen to give up his separatist goals and objectives, especially since his recent victory in the presidential elections.  Washington recognized Taiwan as a part of China and has not diplomatic relations with the island. However, the US government has always sworn it would intervene militarily should Taiwan be forcefully reunited with China.

On account of China's strong opposition, Taiwan currently is internationally isolated. For the 8th time the World Health Organization has refused Taiwan's status of having an observer in the organization, while only 27 countries worldwide acknowledge Taiwan as sovereign state.  

In 2001, Taiwan became a member of the World Trade Organization, just a few hours before China did. However the island lost its representative seat at the United Nations in 1971, when it was replace by China. (MR)

• taiwan
• china
• indipendence