fering an eight-point proposition on China's unification. This week, a meeting was held in Beijing to commemorate the 12th anniversary of Jiang's historic speech, entitled "continue to promote the reunification of the motherland.". For more than a decade since then, Jiang's remarks have remained the basic line of mainland China's position on Taiwan. Even when Hu Jintao came to power in 2003, his own policy on cross-strait relations has remained largely unchanged from that of his predecessor. The eight points Jiang enunciated revolved around one China. "Under the premise of one China, we are prepared to talk about any matter," "Leaders of the Taiwan authorities are welcome to pay visits in appropriate capacities." Jiang also called for expanded economic cooperation and speedy implementation of direct trade and transport links.
But the appeal fell to deaf ears. Jiang's counterpart, Lee Teng-hui, demanded Beijing renounce the use of force against Taiwan. But the mainland refused to make such a commitment.
Now, 12 years later, both Jiang and Lee have stepped down. To his dismay, Lee has found that the deep freeze in cross-strait relations, largely due to Taiwan's persistent pursuit of independence by himself and by his successor, has marginalized Taiwan and hurt the country's national interest.
As if by coincidence, Lee made bombshell statements this week declaring that he has never been secessionist advocating independence. In one interview, Lee expressed his willingness to visit the mainland. That may not be possible as long as he remains opposed to the one China principle, Jiang's standing invitation notwithstanding.
