We should learn to agree to disagree. Taiwan is the most important and most sensitive issue in China-U.S. relations and is at heart of the three joint communiques between our two nations. History shows that if the Taiwan question is handled improperly, it can be the biggest obstacle to the sound growth of our ties. It is our hope that the United States will honor its commitment on the question of Taiwan. It is very unfortunate that at the moment when China and the United States are intensively preparing for the visit to China next week by President Bill Clinton, we heard some noises in China-U.S. relations.
Some people even spread rumors and fabricated stories with ulterior political motives.
This is really an appalling development. We hope that the political leaders in both China and the United States should once again show their wisdom, courage and strategic vision, as did our leaders in early '70s. Li Zhaoxing is China's ambassador to the United States. Conctact the Center's Boston office for publication rights.