Cross-strait forum, Ma's China trip spotlight Taiwan's political gulf

Opposition and ruling parties have 'fundamental difference' over engaging Beijing, analyst says

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Shanghai Vice Mayor Hua Yuan, left, and Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an make a toast at a dinner before an intercity forum in Taipei on Dec. 16. © Reuters

THOMPSON CHAU, Contributing writer

TAIPEI -- A rare visit to Taipei by a large Chinese delegation and a trip to China by a former Taiwan president have turned a spotlight on cross-strait relations this week, just days after Beijing deployed what officials and analysts described as its most extensive maritime harassment of the island democracy.

Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an hosted 92 Chinese officials for the Taipei-Shanghai Twin City Forum, including Shanghai Vice Mayor Hua Yuan. Chiang, who hails from Taiwan's main opposition Kuomintang (KMT), told the forum on Tuesday that what was needed was "more dialogue and less confrontation."

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