From Reuters via the New York Times:
China blasted Taiwan President Chen Shui-bian on Wednesday for a plan to change the constitution and rename the island, moves Beijing would consider a formal declaration of independence of territory it claims as its own.
Chen’s ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) is studying constitutional changes to name the island the “Republic of Taiwan,” instead of “Republic of China,” and redefine its national territory. Party members may introduce legislation next month. [Full Text]
On the other issue, long protests to call for Chen’s resignation, China has kept a silence (full text from Reuters):
China has kept quiet on Taiwan’s recent outbreak of street protests calling for the ouster of independence-leaning President Chen Shui-bian because it fears any strong reaction might backfire, analysts say.
“We have clearly stated that (the issues) should be resolved by Taiwan people.” Li Weiyi, spokesman for China’s policy-making Taiwan Affairs Office, said at a news conference on Wednesday.
