Gotta Keep An Eye On The Milk

As quickly as I sort things out in my head the situation changes. Just as well I've strong toes. A busy five days in Taiwan-China relations:

First off the cap an official KMT Beijing agreement released by the heads of both governments, typical political fodder, but some encouraging language for progress such as:

"Cross-strait ties are now at a crucial point in historical development; the two sides should not fall into a vicious circle of confrontation but instead enter a virtuous circle of cooperation, seek together opportunities for the peaceful and steady development of cross-strait ties, trust and help each other, and create a new situation of peaceful win-win, so as to bring about brilliant and splendid prospects for the Chinese nation."

Okay, so it's a little pretty, but these words on paper were followed up quickly by both sides of the strait. The Taiwanese President, Chen Shui-bian, on Sunday urged the Chinese government to open talks with his administration, while the Taiwanese opposition leader is touring China. (and being treated like the head of state - Beijing's strategy has been to court opposition politicians). Then, yesterday, China began a series of goodwill gestures to Taiwan, including a couple of giant pandas and the lifting of a ban on tourists.

Encouraging stuff, slightly debunking my warmongering paranoia yesterday, oh well, maybe I can pick up some work as a reverse soothsayer.