1,000 rally to demand Taiwan's independence

Deutsche Presse Agentur
Published: Friday September 8, 2006

Taipei- Close to 1,000 pro-independence activists rallied Friday outside the office of Taiwan President Chen Shui-bian, calling for formal independence of the island despite warnings from China that such a move would lead to an attack. "End of the Republic of China and institution of a constitution for the Taiwan nation," the activists shouted in front of the Presidential Office in Taipei.

Wang Hsien-chi, leader of Taiwan Nation Building Movement, demanded that the authorities institute a new constitution for a nation of Taiwan.

His movement is almost certain to infuriate China, which has considered the island an integral part of China that must be brought back into its fold, if necessary, by force.

Beijing and Taipei have remained rivals since the two sides split at the end of a civil war in 1949.

The island is currently known by its official title as the Republic of China, a regime formed by the Nationalists, who were defeated by the Chinese Communists in the civil war and fled to the island to set up an interim government.

Beijing has repeatedly warned that it would attack the island if it declares formal independence.

Friday's rally was staged on the eve of a massive protest that is to also be held in front of the Presidential Office to demand the resignation of Chen, who has been implicated in a string of corruption scandals along with this government.

© 2006 DPA - Deutsche Presse-Agenteur