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China pointing new missiles at Taiwan: newspaper
Taipei (AFP) July 2, 2008 A Taiwanese newspaper on Wednesday said China was pointing new ballistic missiles at the island despite improving ties that will see direct charter flights begin this week. The People's Liberation Army (PLA) have built a new ballistic missile base on China's southeastern coast opposite Taiwan and replaced missiles already deployed with improved versions, the China Times said. Taiwan's defence ministry declined to comment on the report. Defence authorities had previously said that China had targeted the island with more than 1,000 short-range ballistic and cruise missiles. China sees Taiwan as part of its territory, despite their split in 1949 at the end of a civil war, and has threatened to use force if the island ever moves to declare formal independence. The paper said the PLA had once "pulled out" their Russia-made S-300 air-defence missiles from several bases along its southeast coast. However, it said, the PLA lately has rearmed the bases with the improved version of missiles, which place Taiwanese fighter jets within striking range. Ties between Taiwan and China have begun warming since China-friendly President Ma Ying-jeou took office in May, pledging to improve relations with the island's giant and booming neighbour. His predecessor Chen Shui-bian had irked Beijing with his efforts steering Taiwan towards independence. The two sides are to launch non-stop weekend charter flights on Friday after a nearly six-decade ban on direct transport links. Taiwan has also agreed to allow in up to 3,000 Chinese tourists daily to help stimulate the economy. Related Links Taiwan News at SinoDaily.com
Taiwan signals diplomatic truce with China
Taipei (AFP) June 2, 2008Taiwan's new foreign minister said Monday the island would work to strengthen ties with its allies rather than try to lure countries away from China, signalling a major shift in diplomatic strategy. |
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