The 21st century begins against a backdrop of apprehension
--- about terrorism, technology and humanity’s place in an
increasingly confusing world, leaders around the world called for calm
and cooperation.
China’s state-controlled Catholic church defied the Vatican
yesterday (Jan. 6, 2000) ordaining five bishops in a ceremony that
underscored the communist government’s nearly half-century rift with
the Pope. The Chinese government refused to accept the Pope’s
authority to appoint and consecrate bishops worldwide.
China is willing to improving relations if the Vatican breaks ties
with Taiwan, recognizes Beijing’s sovereignty over the island and “does
not interfere in (China’s) internal affairs”, Chinese
Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhu Bangzao said.
Following the democratic procedure, the mainlanders used to be the
silent minority in the post, and now we have to say something.
Contrary to democratic condition in Taiwan, those who fled to Taiwan
some 50 years ago that account for some 12 percent of island’s
population today had handled Taiwan political power in the past martial law that highest
level of government offices are Chinese immigrants. There are 28 percent
of mainlanders are Taipei citizens.
If you asked me who is mainlander, I said it clearly, “nobody is
mainlander! Only New Taiwanese!”
Taiwan occupied by the Portuguese, the Dutch, the Spaniards, the
Manchus and the Japanese for centuries, the Chinese finally took control
of the island only 55 years ago when it was put under the sovereignty of
the Republic of China in accordance with the Cairo Declaration.
Taiwanese people will reaffirm its commitment to democracy by holding
its second direct presidential election.
In my personal opinion, the elections have shaped up to be battle
against corruption and dirty politics, that who is the mainlander was
not so much importance (January 1, 2000).
Managing editor Walter Isaacson emphasized “Three great themes”
of the 20th century.
The grand struggle between totalitarianism and democracy.
The ability of courageous individuals to resist authority in order
to secure their civil rights.
The explosion of scientific and technical knowledge that unveiled
the mysteries of the universe and helped secure the triumph of freedom
by unleashing the powers of free minds and free markets.
Free Tibet
A 14-year-old boy who is recognized as a reincarnation of a Buddha by
both Beijing and the Dalai Lama fled on foot from Tibet to northern
India (Jan. 7, 2000).
