Panel Discussion on May 28th: A New Era for Taiwan-PRC Relations

Please join a symposium hosted by Asia Society, along with the University of California-Berkeley's Institute of East Asian Studies, the University of San Francisco's Center for the Pacific Rim, and the World Affairs Council of Northern California, for an in-depth look into Taiwan’s new era.

After Ma Ying-jeau took office as the president of the Republic of China (Taiwan) in 2008, he shifted away from the confrontational policies towards China of the previous administration. Since then, he has introduced a number of important rapprochement measures, including resumption of cross-strait talks, establishing direct flights and sea transportation, and announcing a “diplomatic truce” with China.

With these changes, tensions between Taiwan and the PRC are now at their lowest level in many years. The panel of distinguished guests will discuss Ma’s new approach and proposals in the face of the extreme global downturn to sign a free-trade agreement with China, which would further remove trade and investment barriers on both sides.

Still, the new policies have not decreased the 1000-plus missiles targeting the island. By treating China as both a threat and an opportunity, Ma is walking a tightrope in developing new relations with Beijing, yet mindful of the criticism and opposition at home.

Speakers:

Chien-Min Chao, Deputy Minister of the Mainland Affairs Council, Taiwan

Chong-pin Lin, Professor, Graduate Institute of International Affairs and Strategic Studies, Tamkang University, Taiwan; former Deputy Minister of Defense, Taiwan

Lowell Dittmer, Professor, Department of Political Science, University of California at Berkeley

Robert Kapp (moderator), President of Robert A. Kapp & Associate, Inc.; former President, US-China Business Council

Time, Place & Cost:
Thursday, May 28, 2009
5:30 pm for Registration & Reception
6:00 – 7:30 pm for Program

K&L Gates LLP
4 Embarcadero, Suite. 1200
San Francisco, CA 94111

Admission: $10 for Asia Society/Co-sponsor members
$15 for Non-members$8 for Students/Seniors
To register, please call (415) 421-8706 or visit:
https://secure.acceptiva.com/?cst=4d34a1