China Says it is Preparing to Restart Talks with Taiwan

AFP reports on latest developments in cross-Straits relations:

China said Thursday it was preparing to resume direct talks with Taiwan for the first time in over a decade, in a sign of improving relations after the inauguration of the island’s new leader.

Ma Ying-jeou, who took office Tuesday as Taiwan’s president vowing to mend ties with China, has raised hopes that long-term tensions may ease across the narrow strait dividing the two rivals.