Chi Mei chairman backs opening of 3 links with mainland China

Taipei, March 31, 2003 (CENS)--Chairman Shi Wen-long of the Chi Mei Group yesterday said that Taiwan and mainland China should immediately open the three direct links of shipping, trade, and postal services instead of continuing to drag the foot.

Shi, whose business empire covers food, petrochemical, and TFT-LCD (thin film transistor-liquid crystal display) industries, has also extensive investments on the mainland and has been long regarded as an industry leaders with close ties with President Chen Shui-bian. He is presently also a senior advisor to the president.

He clarified that he has never been a person advocating Taiwan independence, a movement widely supported by members and supporters of Chen's ruling Democratic Progressive Party.

Shi stressed that what he opposes is the coercing measures like the launch of missiles to intimidate Taiwan people.

He suggested that both Taipei and Beijing open the three direct links right away rather than setting any preconditions. Beijing has been insisting on Taiwan's acceptance of the "one China policy" before resuming formal cross-strait talks on any major issues.

In spite of the continuous slides of the popularity of President Chen and the performance of the DPP government in all major public opinion polls, Shi insists to give high marks to Chen. At least the government has become more close to the people and the government services are now better than those of many other foreign governments, he explained.