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In today's Report:
Reuters ("RED CROSS WARNS OF CATASTROPHE IN N KOREA," Seoul,
4/2/97) reported that Red Cross officials Wednesday warned of
imminent famine in the DPRK. Red Cross official Yasuo Tanaka, who
visited the DPRK last week, stated that "in some kitchens, there
was no rice, no food at all. I asked them what they ate and they
showed me natural grasses." Tanaka also noted that "the children
look weak and tired." Red Cross Asia-Pacific region chief Johan
Schaar warned that "without urgent international aid programs, a
large number of North Koreans will face starvation. Food stocks in
North Korea can run out any time now."
Reuters ("JAPAN SAID MULLING OVER FOOD AID FOR NORTH KOREA," Tokyo,
4/2/97) reported on UN World Food Program director Catherine
Bertini's appeal to Japanese officials for an immediate $87 million
UN emergency food aid package for the DPRK. Bertini noted after
the appeal that the officials "heard what we had to say and replied
that they will consider it." She warned that "if there are not
massive amounts of food arriving in the country, people are going
to be dying this summer."
United Press International ("RED CROSS SAYS N KOREA AID PICKING
UP," Seoul, 4/2/97) reported that the ROK Red Cross Wednesday
announced that it will send $1.2 million in additional food aid to
the DPRK. The shipment of potatoes, powdered milk, radish seed,
and cabbage seed is aimed at meeting the needs of 130,000 North
Koreans and marks the largest such effort in two years. The
shipment is a result of the ROK's decision this week to permit the
Red Cross to distribute rice aid donated by private organizations.
Kevin Sullivan reported in the Washington Post ("SOUTH KOREA LIFTS
BAN ON RICE TO NORTH," Seoul, 4/1/97) on the ROK's decision to lift
its ban on private rice donations "as a move apparently designed to
coax the DPRK into the peace talks." O Je Shin of World Vision's
South Korea office observed that "until now, rice aid has been Kim
Young Sam's most important North Korea policy tool." A senior
south Korean official indicated that the ROK's decision was due
partly to suggestions from the "slew" of US officials visiting
Seoul in recent weeks.
In an earlier feature, Kevin Sullivan reported in the Washington
Post ("NORTH KOREAN OFFICIALS WARN US SENATORS OF RESTIVE
MILITARY," Seoul, 3/30/97) on the visit of five US Senators to the
DPRK and their varying statements on the DPRK's situation. New
Mexico Senator Pete Domenici's stated that the North Koreans "were
quite clear in saying that if they were unable to get food
supplies, they were not sure how the military would respond to them
going to the four-party talks." However, Hawaii Senator Daniel
Inouye emphasized that the repeated DPRK references to the problem
merely were "part of their negotiating posture." Alaska Senator
Ted Stevens suggested that "we are going to have a difficult time
in Congress obtaining support for funding for food aid if it's
looked at as a precondition" for the four-party talks. In
commenting on a "total mobilization" drill taking place in
Pyongyang during the visit, Domenici suggested that the North
Koreans "live in a very different reality than we do. There's
nobody ready to attack them, but this is just part of the way they
live, as far as I could tell."
The Associated Press ("RAMOS EXTENDS DEFECTORS STAY," Manila,
4/2/97) reported that Philippine President Fidel Ramos Wednesday
agreed to extend the stay of DPRK defector Hwang Jang-yop. AP and
Reuters ("MANILA MIGHT SHELTER KOREA DEFECTOR FOR MONTH," Manila,
4/1/97) reported that Philippine Foreign Secretary Domingo Siazon
stated on Tuesday that the PRC and ROK had requested that Hwang
remain in the Philippines for thirty days.
Christopher Bodeen of the Associated Press ("GINGRICH REPEATS
TAWIAN PLEDGE," Taipei, 4/2/97) reported that US House of
Representatives Speaker Newt Gingrich, "ending his Asian tour with
more strong talk," reiterated his pledge that the US would defend
Taiwan from PRC attack. After meeting with Taiwan President Lee
Teng-hui, Gingrich told reporters that "it is important to be
explicit... that should Beijing seek to unify Tawian with the
mainland by force or intimidation, the United States will use all
means necessary to prevent it." PRC officials Tuesday accused
Gingrich of making "indiscreet" remarks about PRC-Taiwan relations.
Reuters ("CHINA WARNS US NOT TO INTERFERE IN TAIWAN," Beijing,
4/1/97) reported that PRC Foreign Ministry spokesman Shen Guofang
responded by stating that "the issue of Taiwan between China and
the United States has one purpose, that of non-interference in
China's internal affairs." White House officials have sought to
play down Gingrich's remarks.
Patrick Tyler reported in the New York Times ("CHINA AGREES WITH
SOME OF WHAT GINGRICH SAID," Beijing, 4/2/97) that the PRC
indicated Tuesday that it was, in Tyler's words, "essentially
pleased" with Gingrich's remarks last weekend. The US House
Speaker had asserted that the US would defend Tawain if attacked
militarily, but indicated that he accepted a "one-China" policy.
Shen Guofang observed Tuesday that "Gingrich mentioned several
times in Beijing that he opposed Taiwan's independence and approved
the principle of one China. He also expressed that the American
government and the American Congress will stick to the principle of
one China."
5. USIA Foreign Media Reaction Daily Digest (4/2/97)
GORE AND GINGRICH IN ASIA:
Media commentary from abroad following the conclusion of Vice
President Gore's trip to Asia focused intently on the meaning of
the visit as embodying overall US views and policy toward the
region. ROK analysts said the trip "confirmed US-ROK solidarity"
at a difficult time in its relations with the DPRK and demonstrated
a "desire to find out whether Korea is...ready to fight" if
necessary. The ROK's moderate Hankook Ilbo saw US concern about
the "new phase" of the four-party talks and the aftermath of the
Hwang Jang-yop defection in the timing of the vice president's
visit. Anti-establishment Hankyoreh Shinmun perceived the sojourn
as "part of the second Clinton administration's overall effort to
reaffirm its focus on Asia." Commenting that "Vice President
Gore's remarks on a northern collapse caught our attention,"
conservative Chosun Ilbo interpreted these as "how President
Clinton must see the situation." While discussing the DPRK and its
tactical "cunning," Singapore's pro-government Straits Times
offered the observation that "Gore...needed little reminder of how
accomplished DPRK has become in extracting huge gains for little
outlay." With respect to the visit tothe PRC, Karachi's centrist
News saw it as a "mission to give more effective demonstration of
high level US concern for the human rights situation in that
country." Russia's centrist Krasnaya Zvezda, however, viewed the
Vice President's PRC visit in terms of overall US global strategy
and asserted that "it is an instance of rapid reaction to new
symptoms of rapprochement between Asian giants which, certainly,
can't but worry the US. Especially so, as Russia and the PRC never
miss a chance to reiterate their joint opposition to Washington
becoming the focus of global authority."
The close of House Speaker Newt Gingrich's tour of Asia elicited
mixed reviews, focusing mainly on the Taiwan and Hong Kong
questions. Mr. Gingrich's "warning" to PRC regarding Hong Kong and
his declaration that the US would defend Taiwan from a PRC attack
reassured an independent paper in Hong Kong and won the applause of
observers in Indonesia and Denmark. Jakarta's leading, independent
Kompas suggested that the speaker made his remarks "because he is
not convinced that the PRC's current leaders really understand the
concept 'one nation, two systems.'" Dailies in Beijing and those
owned by the PRC in Hong Kong, on the other hand, dropped the
glowing tones they adopted during Vice President Gore's visit for
more negative ones. The official, English-language China Daily of
Beijing quoted a Foreign Ministry spokesman as saying that "the PRC
does not need any foreigners to make improper [sic] remarks on the
[Taiwan] issue." The paper also denounced the US policy "of
containing China" and claimed that "the military alliance between
the U.S. and Japan has alarmed Asian nations." In Hong Kong,
pro-PRC Wen Wei Po cautioned regarding Taiwan and its importance to
US-PRC ties: "Though the relationship between the two nations is like
the first beam after the rain, it does not mean that it will not
rain from then on."
This survey is based on 46 reports from 18 countries, March 24-29.
EDITORS: Bill Richey and Mildred Sola Neely
EAST ASIA AND PACIFIC
CHINA: "U.S. Threatens Asia's Security"
Former director of the Institute of Japanese Studies, Chinese
Academy of Social Sciences He Fang declared in the official,
English-language China Daily (4/2), "Unfounded concerns about the
PRC's strength caused the United States to shift its foreign policy
emphasis in the region to matters of national security. Since the
United States views the PRC as a potential threat in Asia, it
strengthened its military ties with Japan and embarked on a policy
of containing the PRC. The aim of the United States is to take the
lead role in the Asia-Pacific region. The military alliance
between the United States and Japan has alarmed Asian nations, who
fear it might lead to military confrontation and an arms race....
The United States often accuses other countries of threatening
Asian security. In fact, U.S. policy is the principal determinant
of security in Asia. "What the United States wants is to establish
a security system in Asia led by the United States. Hardly any
Asian country will accept such an arrangement."
"China Does Not Need Foreigners Making Improper Remarks On Taiwan"
The Gingrich statement on Taiwan sparked this response in an
article by Xie Liangjun on the front page of the official,
English-language China Daily (4/2), "Foreign Ministry spokesman Shen
Guofang said...that during his visit to Beijing, Gingrich has
stated many times he opposes Taiwan independence and backs the
'one-China' position.... Shen said what methods the PRC will adopt
to resolve the Taiwan issue is the PRC's internal affair, and the
PRC does not need any foreigners to make improper (sic) remarks on
the issue."
"The Human Rights Club"
In another article in the official, English-language China Daily
(4/2), Si Nan praised the French decision not to take part in the
proposal directed against the PRC's human rights conditions at the
UN Human Rights Commission, adding, "For years, some Western powers
have been turning the...Commission...into a human rights court.
Posing as human rights judges, they blindly point accusing fingers
at developing countries on the human rights issue. The human
rights issue thus becomes a club to force developing counties to
give in on other issues.
"Safeguarding human rights should be a holy pursuit of all
humanity. But this vocation now is obviously desecrated by power
politics and hegemony in international relations."
"Man-Made Obstacles"
Xinhua News Agency wrote in the official Communist Party People's
Daily (Renmin Ribao) (4/2): "Li Tieying, chairman of the State
Commission on Structural Reform told former U.S. National Security
Advisor Scowcroft that while Vice President Gore and Speaker
Gingrich were visiting China, they had extensive and substantive
discussions with PRC leaders. So long as both countries proceed
with an eye on the future, earnestly observe the principles of the
three joint communiques and proceed from the fundamental interests
of their two peoples...they will be able to eliminate man-made
obstacles (to good relations) and allow the bilateral relationship
to remain stable and continue to develop over the long term."
"Trio Refute U.S. Media's Donation Allegations"
Xinhua News Agency editorialized in the official, English-language
China Daily (3/31), "Recently, media in the United States have been
spreading news about China's alleged involvement in (making)
political donations to the Democratic National Committee. To
verify the truth and notify the world of the facts, Xinhua News
Agency interviewed persons from three organizations mentioned in
media accounts: the China Council for the Promotion of
International Trade, China International Trust and Investment
Corporation (CITIC) and China Ocean Shipping Corporation (COSCO).
"U.S. media claim these three organizations have been involved in
the political donations case. By doing so, the media are taking
aim at the PRC. Wang Jun, CITIC president, said U.S. media have
recently fabricated slanderous stories about CITIC and himself....
Zheng Hongye, former chairman of the China Council for the
Promotion of International Trade, expressed great indignation at
some U.S. media's groundless fabrications and vilifications that
the Council was involved in 'political donations.'... The essence
of the PRC's so-called involvement in the 'political donations'
case is that a handful of people are attempting to place new
obstacles and undermine the development of bilateral relations by
taking advantage of some anti-PRC forces and news media in the
United States. The three interviewees...expressed the hope that
all people of insight will resist these evil innuendoes."
"Jiang Zemin Meets U.S. Senators"
Xinhua correspondent Zhang Yijun on the front page of official
Communist Party People's Daily (Renmin Ribao) wrote (3/29):
"While meeting with Senators Connie Mack, Joseph Lieberman and
James Jeffords, President Jiang Zemin said that maintaining a
healthy relationship with the United States would bring about many
opportunities for economic development... He also said that 'we
are happy to see that more members of Congress support steady
development of the bilateral relationship.'"
"Li Peng Meets House Speaker Gingrich"
Xinhua News Agency correspondent Luo Hui in the official Communist
Party People's Daily (Renmin Ribao) wrote (3/29): "While meeting
with House Speaker Gingrich, Premier Li Peng said that...the visits
by many members of Congress will help to increase understanding
between our two countries.... Li said that...it is in the
fundamental interest of both countries to maintain a stable and
normal relationship, avoid confrontation and strengthen dialogue
and cooperation. World peace and development would also benefit
from this state of affairs. Li said that the PRCand the United
States should develop their common points and resolve areas of
disagreement through dialogue and engagement. It does not matter if
some differences cannot be resolved for the time being.... Those
people who speak of a 'China threat' do not understand the PRC or
are just plain ignorant. The PRC does not threaten anyone, nor
does it seek to establish a sphere of influence. The PRC is an
important factor in safeguarding global peace and stability.
Gingrich expressed admiration for the PRC's economic achievements.
All of mankind would benefit if the United States and the PRC
establish stronger, more effective relations in the 21st century.
He also said that this visit had given his delegation a more
comprehensive understanding of the PRC's domestic and foreign
policies. 'I do not think that the PRC would constitute any threat
to other countries.'"
"Zhu Rongji Meets House Speaker"
Xinhua News Agency correspondent Lu Jin in official Communist Party
People's Daily (Renmin Ribao) wrote (3/29): "Zhu Rongji told House
Speaker Gingrich that he was the second speaker of the house to
visit the PRC since the establishment of diplomatic relations. This
is an important event.... Zhu said that Sino-U.S. relations should
be based on mutual understanding, respect and trust. 'We hope this
visit by the speaker will be helpful to increasing mutual
understanding and trust between the PRC and the United States.'
Gingrich said that the PRC's economic development and raising the
national standard of living were among mankind's greatest
achievements in the past 20 years. Congress and the American
people seek to establish a cordial long-term and stable
relationship with the PRC, rather than one fraught with
uncertainty."
"Jiang Zemin Meets Gingrich"
Xinhua News Agency correspondent Zhang Yijun's dispatch ran on page
one of the official, Communist Party People's Daily (Renmin Ribao,
3/29) and other major Chinese papers: "While meeting with the
speaker of the House of Representatives on March 28, President
Jiang Zemin compared Sino-U.S. relations to a sky 'beginning to
clear after rainfall.' He hoped that the United States would
strictly observe the three joint communiques and not allow the
Taiwan issue to interfere in the improvement of bilateral
relations.... Jiang said that Vice President Al Gore's visit to
China as well as the speaker's current visit are positive
developments in the bilateral relationship."
"Tian Jiyun Meets U.S. Guests"
Xinhua News Agency correspondent Liu Yunfei in Beijing, March 28,
official Communist Party People's Daily (Renmin Ribao) said (3/28):
"Tian Jiyun, Vice Chairman of the Standing Committee of the
National People's Congress (NPC) told Speaker Gingrich that the
national legislatures of both countries should increase their
exchanges and strengthen their cooperation. Increasing contact
between legislators will help to deepen mutual
understanding....Gingrich said that exchanges and cooperation
between our two countries will promote the development of friendly
bilateral relations."
HONG KONG: "Invite More International Leaders To Hong Kong"
An editorial in the independent Sing Tao Daily News said (3/28),
"Gingrich remarked after meeting with Governor Chris Patten and
Chief Executive-designate Tung Chee-hwa yesterday that he was
cautiously optimistic' about Hong Kong's future after 1997. Such a
remark made by U.S. conservative leader almost shows that Hong
Kong's future is certain. If there are more political figures like
him that make positive remarks on Hong Kong's future, it will be
conducive to eliminating some of the worries in the international
community."
"Hong Kong Does Not Need To Be Caught In U.S.-China Differences"
The independent, English-language South China Morning Post observed
(3/30), that "the US and the PRC are bound to have fundamental
differences stemming from their different systems. The last thing
that Hong Kong needs is to be caught in that gap for U.S. political
reasons. Trade with America is one of the key international links
to Hong Kong, and should remain so. That makes it all the more
vital for the territory both that the US steers a clear policy path
with the PRC, and that Hong Kong does not become a domestic
political football in the approach to the next Congressional
elections."
"Taiwan: Litmus Test Of Sino-U.S. Relations"
Pro-PRC Wen Wei Po's column held (4/1), "The Taiwan issue can be
treated as a litmus test of Sino-U.S. relations. Though the
relationship between the two nations is like the first beam after
the rain, it does not mean that it will not rain from then on.
U.S. political figures' China visits are conducive to scattering
the clouds. The PRC's international status is becoming more and
more important, thus the United States cannot act rashly against
the PRC. However, if the stone of Taiwan does not move away, it
will still be a stumbling block.... It is hoped that Gingrich,
after this China visit, will have a better understanding of the
PRC."
SOUTH KOREA: "Gore's Remarks On Northern Collapse Caught Our
Attention"
The conservative Chosun Ilbo commented (3/31): "Vice President
Gore's remarks on a northern collapse caught our attention. His
remark is especially significant in that his thoughts indicate how
President Clinton must see the situation.... In Korea, studies on
the prospect of a northern collapse have increased. Even those who
have looked at collapse with skepticism are beginning to have
different views. There of course exist other opinions rejecting
the prospect of the north's early collapse. The basis of their
opposition is that the its military is still formidable and strong,
and that the north remains a tightly closed society which prevents
foreign influences from seeping in."
"U.S.-ROK Relations Reassessed"
The conservative Segye Ilbo editorialized (3/31): "The recent
series of visits by U.S. officials have provided us with an
opportunity to correct and fine-tune U.S.-ROK relations. That
opportunity was useful for both sides, especially with the start of
the Clinton administration's second term. . . with east Asia going
through a major strategic change in the wake of Hong Kong' s
return to the PRC, the United States will need a stable Korean
peninsula more than ever.... As for the four-party talks, the ROK
did the right thing by insisting that food aid cannot be provided
in exchange for the four-party dialogue. It will be even better if
we can make full use of U.S. influence on the issue of Taiwan's
transfer of nuclear waste."
"Positive Atmosphere For Talks With North Korea"
Pro-business Joong-Ang Ilbo (3/31) commented, "South Korea's (ROK)
new policy of allowing civilian-level rice aid is openly aimed at
enticing the DPRK into the four-party talks. The DPRK has begun to
take, for the first time, a positive stand toward us, going so far
as to officially make rice requests to the ROK. The provision of
food aid now looks inevitable -- that is, before the four-way
dialogue. Although both the United States and the ROK still insist
on their earlier position, the North's repeated requests have
created a positive atmosphere. A government official has
described this latest switch as a signal for a major policy change
towards the DPRK."
"Gore's Visit Confirmed U.S.-ROK Partnership"
An editorial in independent Dong-A Ilbo (3/30) said: "The truth is
that the special relationship of our two countries -- strategic
partners and allies 'bonded in blood' -- must be maintained.... Mr.
Gore's visit, made at a time when the DPRK and the ROK are facing
a difficult situation, confirmed U.S.-ROK solidarity. That was
significant."
"U.S. Wants To Look Inside Korea"
The visits by Gore and U.S. congressmen sparked this editorial in
moderate Hankook Ilbo (3/30): "What is at the core of these visits
seems to be a desire to find out whether Korea is politically and
militarily ready to fight, should an unexpected situation break out
in North Korea. The ROK should show its readiness and its strong
solidarity with the United States."
"Vice President Demonstrates U.S. Concern"
Moderate Hankook Ilbo (3/30) concluded, "The primary significance
of the vice president's visit was its timing, when the four-party
talks are moving into a new phase. It was also appropriate for
the vice president to demonstrate the U.S.'s concern over the DPRK
in the aftermath of Hwang Jang-Yop's defection. His confirming
that the United States will maintain its current military force
level in Korea was just as important. Although the PRC was the
focus of his Asia tour this time, visiting Korea provided him with
an opportunity to gain first-hand knowledge about the peninsula,
which is the U.S.'s "Achilles heel" in the region. Additionally,
his confirmation that the United States does not approve giving
food aid to the DPRK in exchange for the four-party talks was
important. Sharing the view that the Korean Peninsula should not
return to a period of tension, President Kim and Mr. Gore
confirmed the importance of U.S.-ROK joint defense readiness."
"What Is The Real Purpose Of Vice President Gore's Visit?"
The anti-establishment Hankyoreh Shinmun commented (3/29): "After
U.S. Congressmen paid a series of earlier visits, Vice President Al
Gore came to Korea. On the surface, their visits do not appear to
be linked to one another. In fact, both the ROK and the U.S.
explained that the purpose of Gore's visit was part of the second
Clinton administration's overall effort to reaffirm its focus on
Asia. Additionally, the vice presidential visit also seems meant
to give him a break from the 'China-connection'-related criticism
that he faces at home. Nevertheless, the list of those
accompanying the Vice President, one being Charles Kartman, draws
our attention. Against the backdrop of a series of rapidly
developing events, such as the March 26 New York meeting and the
visits to the DPRK by U.S. Senator Stevens and KOTRA Director Hong,
this vice-presidential visit (accompanied by no other than Charles
Kartman) tells us that there may well be a 'consistent flow' behind
these seemingly unrelated visits. The New York meeting failed to
move one step forward in the discussion of which should come
first -- food aid or the four-party talks. The parties at the
meeting, however, may have agreed on how to avoid a 'dead-end,'
and this conjecture has led us to speculate that Kartman's and
Senator Stevens's visits may not be totally unrelated to what went
on at the New York meeting. Accompanying the Vice President,
Kartman must already have discussed the issues with the PRC and
Japan. What is at the heart of the North Korea issue at this point
is how to bring the DPRK to the table for the four-party dialogue
without hurting its pride. As government officials have said, all
U.S. officials during their visits focused on that aspect. In this
context it seems that the ROK has lately adopted a flexible
attitude on the food aid issue."
"A Series Of Visits By U.S. Officials: Why?"
The conservative Chosun Ilbo stated (3/29): "According to the
Foreign Ministry, the timing of the visits by U.S. officials --
including Vice President Gore -- was only 'by chance,' bearing 'no
flow beneath the surface.' The Ministry further explains that
House Speaker Gingrich and Senator Stevens, both Republicans
traveling during an Easter break, were not on a mission for the
Clinton administration. Vice President Gore's visit, too, is only
an occasion for the United States to express interest in Asia, says
the Ministry, adding that during his visit with President Kim, Mr.
Gore is not expected to demand anything, and that issues do not
exist that he has to address at this point."
JAPAN: "U.S.-China Relations And Japan"
Liberal Asahi editorialized (4/1), "During his visit to Beijing,
Foreign Minister Ikeda told President Jiang Zemin and other PRC
leaders that the further improvement of relations among Japan, the
United States and the PRC is indispensable for the development of
East Asia. What Japan, the United States and the PRC have in
common is the influence each has on the peace and economic
development of the region. It is, therefore, extremely important
that these nations establish a relationship of trust. Economic
strength is the source of Japanese influence. Although Japan is an
economic power, it does not intend to become a military power. The
Japanese people should be more confident that this philosophy has
earned Japan a 'special place' in the international community....
Japan should have a more active diplomatic doctrine and the
political ability to bring itself into harmony with the situation
in Asia. Then Japan could strengthen Japan-U.S. relations and
Japan-PRC ties and help the United States and PRC build more stable
relations... When Japan blindly follows in the footsteps of the
United States, it only weaken its own case."
"China Demonstrates Flexibility During Gore, Ikeda Visits"
Liberal Asahi's Beijing correspondent Kato observed (3/31), "In
Beijing's first full-fledged diplomacy since the death of Deng
Xiaoping, the PRC leadership opted for cooperation rather than
confrontation, and reacted in an extremely flexible manner to the
visits to Beijing of Vice President Gore and Japanese Foreign
Minister Ikeda. The PRC believes it necessary to have a peaceful
international environment in place for the approaching return of
Hong Kong. The PRC leadership, led by President Jiang Zemin, also
wishes to give the international community the impression that the
PRC will continue the reform and open-door policies left by Deng
and will pursue a stable and reasonable diplomacy."
AUSTRALIA: "Clinton's China Balance"
The national, conservative Australian Financial Review opined
(4/2), "Last year, the newly elected Howard government moved to
're-invigorate' Australia's security alliance with the United
States, suggesting it could be used to deal with 'regional
contingencies' -- read by the PRC to be any belligerence towards
Taiwan. But, in response to Beijing's annoyance, Mr. Howard now
tells the PRC that Australia's foreign policy is based on 'a
clear-headed and independent assessment of the region.' He also
states that "Australia is not an East Asian tool of U.S. foreign
policy efforts to 'contain' the PRC's emerging might. ... The only
nation capable of influencing the PRC's engagement into the polite
international community is the world's sole superpower -- the United
States. ... Fortunately, the Clinton administration itself now
appears to have properly balanced its PRC policy towards the
engagement goal after its first four years of neglect and
confusion.... President Clinton has correctly rejected the linkage
of human rights and trade policy.... the PRC also must be clear
that another Tiananmen Square would call all these bets off."
INDONESIA: "Gingrich's Warning"
Leading, independent Kompas (4/2) observed in an editorial,
"Although Gingrich is more candid in talking about human rights, he
is generally a proponent of the U.S. administration's policy to
engage China. Besides his warning over Taiwan, Gingrich also
warned the PRC to guard the freedom of Hong Kong, which he called a
'gentle orchid' in a giant's hand. ... Why did Gingrich say this?
Because he is not convinced that the PRC's current leaders really
understand the concept 'one nation, two systems.' According to
Gingrich, honoring the pledge to leave Hong Kong's autonomous way
of life in place is beyond the PRC'sexperience, like a person who
has never seen the sea giving sailing lessons."
MALAYSIA: "China Knows It Has To Maintain Good Relations With
Congress"
In the view of government-influenced, Chinese-language Kwong Wah
Yit Poh (3/31), "The visit of Newt Gingrich which followed that of
Vice President Al Gore was received as an important event in the
PRC, because Gingrich is one of the most influential Republicans
leaders.... Experiences in the past have made the PRC understand
that maintaining good relations with the U.S. government alone is
insufficient. This is because the Congress is controlled by the
Republicans. Therefore the PRC invited many congressmen to visit
Beijing so that the government could correct any misconceptions
about the PRC, especially about her human rights practices. Most
recently there are accusations that the PRC attempted to influence
the U.S. government through 'political donations.' But all this
had been denied by the PRC, and this should not damage the
relations of the two nations. The next question is: The U.S.
government and its leaders must understand that Taiwan is the most
sensitive issue to the PRC, and that she may resort to war in
order to protect her interests and authority over Taiwan."
SINGAPORE: "Gore Needed Little Reminder"
The pro-government Straits Times' editorial held (3/31), "North
Korean cunning in turning adversity to tactical advantage knows no
bounds. This much is clear from the DPRK's demand last week that
it would attend four-party peace talks...only on condition that it
received food supplies to relieve a serious grain shortage....
Gore, who discussed the talks with PRC and ROK leaders on his visit
to East Asia last week, needed little reminder of how accomplished
DPRK has become in extracting huge gains for little outlay.... The
allies should not embarrass themselves again. They have never been
in a stronger position to bring Northern acquiescence. They need
not be fearful that a DPRK with its back to the wall might lash
out -- with a limited strike against the ROK, say. This can be
calibrated by beating the DPRK at its own game: Give a little but
get a big bite in. They should thus hold firm to the line that no
government-to-government food aid will be given as a pre-condition
for talks."
THAILAND: "China's Importance"
The independent, English-language Nation's Kavi Chongkittavorn
remarked on Thai Prime Minister Chavalit Yongchaiyudh's scheduled
Wednesday visit to the PRC, saying (3/31), "Thailand wishes to
utilize the growing status of the PRC, which is moving toward
realizing the reformation of a greater China with the return of
Hong Kong on July 1, for its own commercial and security
interests.... The Thai leadership, including Chavalit, has
recognized the PRC as a superpower that has a global role because
of its tremendous economic, potential, and military clout.
Moreover, both sides share similar strategic thinking. For
instance, while the two countries see the importance of the U.S.'
stabilizing influence in the region, they also feel that the U.S.
presence is not the only factor that keeps the region safe....
(Thai) leaders believe that a rich and prosperous China will do
more good for the region than an impoverished giant. That
explains why Bangkok is a strong supporter of the PRC's bid to join
the World Trade Organization and other international organizations
and forums."
SOUTH ASIA
INDIA: "No Such Remark Made To Gore"
Tokyo correspondent F.J. Khergamvala: wrote in the centrist Hindu
(4/2): "President Jiang Zemin's offer to have a Taiwanese figure
as the PRC's Vice President to ease the unification of Taiwan with
the mainland has some significance and purpose.... In the
immediate context there is unlikely to be any major impact in
Taiwan because by some careful crafty wording, the PRC seems to
have ruled out offering the vice president's job to the elected
Taiwan leader, Lee Teng-hui.... There are certain dimensions to
this statement. First,Jiang could be setting out additional
parameters for the 'one-country, two systems' approach which is an
experiment yet to begin. Moreover, the fact that no such remark
was made to Vice President Al Gore, during their meeting just seven
days earlier, but made to Japan suggests two motives. One, to keep
the contentious Taiwan issue out of high level U.S.-PRC dialogues
but yet to obtain some regional publicity not only for a softer
line on Taiwan but also for portraying Jiang as a statesman in the
post-Deng era. The subject of Taiwan does not arouse as much
passion in the Japanese establishment as it does in the United
States."
PAKISTAN: "Gore's Customary Sermon On Human Rights"
The centrist News wrote (4/1): "Nothing poses a bigger dilemma to
the United States than its failure to somehow fit the People's
Republic of China into a pattern that would conform with its
perception of a politically correct state.... Communists and
capitalists are not supposed to make good bedfellows.... The lack
of democracy in the bcountry as it is perceived is of fundamental
concern to the United States because it is the most obvious of all
the evils that can be heaped on PRC. Over five weeks ago,
Madeleine Albright undertook the journey vowing to take a tough
stand on the issue, only to commit a grave diplomatic faux pas.
She ignored the fact that the Chinese were in deep mourning for
their much revered leader Deng Xiao-ping. Vice President Al Gore
recently visited the PRC on a similar mission to give a more
effective demonstration of high level U.S. concern for the human
rights situation in that country. He met the leaders, signed some
agreements, saw the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square, praised the
ancient civilization of China, and returned home after delivering a
customary sermon on human rights. The PRC politely heard him,
offered their explanation, and forgot all about it."
BANGLADESH: "Gore's Mission"
The centrist, English-language Independent (3/28), in an editorial,
stressed that the disagreements over Hong Kong, Taiwan and
speculation about illegal campaign contributions "have not been
significant factors capable of disorienting Gore's mission for
better relations with the growing Asian economic giant....
Improved U.S.-PRC relations are bound to have far-reaching
implications for peace and prosperity of Asia, and for the shift
of the focus of economic and military power balance from the
Atlantic to the Pacific."
EUROPE
RUSSIA: "Beijing Benefits By Moscow-Washington Rivalry"
According to Dmitry Kosyrev of centrist Nezavisimaya Gazeta (4/2):
"One would be ill- advised to believe that Washington's chief
concern is over a too fast rapprochement between Beijing and Moscow
after the U.S.- Russian summit in Helsinki. No doubt, Russia is a
factor prompting America to settle its Chinese dilemma through
wider cooperation. But Russia's much-publicized 'fall-back' option
providing for an alliance with Eastern giants as compensation for a
failure to integrate into Europe is primitive and illusory. Things
aren't that simple in reality. Alliances take more than just
wishes to build. In the stable triangle ofRussia, the PRC, and the
US, the PRC needs both of the other sides and, more importantly,
profits by their rivalry."
"Gore Trip Not A Routine Thing"
Centrist, army Krasnaya Zvezda (4/1) ran this comment by Vadim
Markushin: "The Gore trip is not just another in the series of
moves the Americans started a few years ago to improve their
relations with PRC and iron out kinks in the operation of their
various agencies vis-a-vis their PRC counterparts. It is an
instance of rapid reactionto new symptoms of rapprochement between
Asian giants which, certainly, can't but worrythe US. Especially
so, as Russia and the PRC never miss a chance to reiterate their
joint opposition to the US becoming the focus of global authority."
DENMARK: "Gingrich's Fears Could Be Justified"
An editorial in center-left Politiken (4/2) supported Gingrich's
recent comments condemning the PRC's totalitarian regime:
"Beijing's totalitarian regime has promised to respect Hong Kong's
more liberal system when the former British colony is handed over
to the PRC on July 1...but, Newt Gingrich's fears could be
justified.... In addition Gingrich condemned the PRC for refusing
to promise that it would not use military power against Taiwan.
The PRC has indicated that it would like to swallow Taiwan after it
has regained control of Hong Kong.... The world ought to make the
PRC realize that it is not open to making concessions with regard
to its totalitarian geopolitical vision of the future."
LATIN AMERICA CHILE: "Gore In China"
Conservative, influential, El Mercurio editorialized (3/30): "In a
complete turnabout, during the past two years the Clinton
administration has changed its confrontational policy towards the
PRC, by moving toward a cooperative relationship with an eye on the
next century, when the Asian giant will have even more political
clout, owing to its territory, population and important advances
accomplished through economic development.... The U.S. Vice
President's recent visit to PRC shows how the power of trade
interests has moderated (the U.S.) concerns over the violation of
human rights in PRC, and (the PRC's) production and sale of arms of
mass destruction to other countries such as Iran that the United
States regards as 'dangerous.'...
"The Gore visit, though, has also allowed PRC leaders to underscore
what constitutes for them the most critical issue in the bilateral
relationship: Taiwan. Regarding the latter, (the PRC) made the
gesture of accepting that the U.S. consulate in Hong Kong remain
open after that region returns to Chinese sovereignty next July
1.... In this new relationship, in which both countries agree to
disagree, other issues remain pending such as the PRC's entry into
the World Trade Organization (and) the U.S. trade deficit with the
PRC, which are matters that possibly will be included in the agenda
of both presidents' meetings planned for the present and the coming
year."
6. USIA Text (4/1/97): Gingrich 3/27 Remarks at AmCham Hong Kong
Washington -- A successful transition to Chinese sovereignty in
Hong Kong will depend on China's respect for civil rights and the
rule of law, according to Newt Gingrich (Republican of Georgia),
Speaker of the US House of Representatives.
Following is the as-delivered text of Gingrich's remarks:
Text of address by House Speaker Newt Gingrich to the American
Chamber of Commerce, Hong Kong Conrad hotel - March 27, (Following
introduction by Mr. Douglas Henck, Chairman of the American Chamber
of Commerce)
Thank you very much, Doug. Let me say first of all that, as a
Georgian, I am delighted to be here, as you can imagine. If you're
from Atlanta, you sort of wake up every morning with a certain
worldwide sense of curiosity, partly based on CNN, partly based on
Coca Cola, partly based on Delta Airlines -- I have now done my
constituent duty...(laughter)...and, of course, the Olympics last
year brought it all home in a dramatic way. So in that sense, I'm
delighted to be here.
It occurred to me, we had a very good meeting with your board of
directors a few minutes ago and I want to share a little bit of the
way we're approaching this. I think we are a little different than
a lot of congressional delegations. This is the beginning of what
we believe, will be a long-term commitment to look at a number of
issues in a positive way and to frame things in a way that we think
will be effective. And I'll talk about that more when we're done.
But we also approach this, I think, with a very different approach
at a human level. We recognize that America is a remarkable country
but that we have much to learn. I mentioned the other night in a
meeting we had in talking about imperfections. We were in South
Korea at the time, the Republic of Korea. And I mentioned that two
of colleagues on this trip, Congressmen Hastings of Florida and
Congressmen Jefferson of Louisiana, in their lifetime, would have
found it difficult, if not impossible, to go across America
comfortably because they could not, when they were young, have
found hotels in many towns to accommodate them. Jay Kim, our
Congressman from California, who has very close family relations
and friends in Korea, commented in a way that I think moved all of
us that night. That he and his family, he was very young, when
Seoul was overrun by North Korea in 1950. Then Seoul was liberated
by the United Nations Command, and then Seoul was overrun a second
time and his family fled that time. And he came to America. And his
first job was working as a janitor in a hospital, cleaning the
hospital. And he recently went back to that hospital, where his
son, I believe it is, is now a doctor. And one of the older doctors
looked at Jay for a moment and said: Didn't you use to scrub the
floors here? And he said "yes." He of course is now quite
successful and has decided that, while he is successful, he is
willing to go through the complexities of public life and so he is
also a congressman. And it occurs to us, I think, that we've come
on this trip to engage in a dialogue between an imperfect America
which has been open to all people of all backgrounds and which
seeks to illustrate the best in the human spirit and a variety of
countries with whom we desire nothing but friendship and goodwill.
For part of the genius of America has been to seek everywhere to
extend and exalt the human spirit, so that everyone can have the
opportunities that Jay Kim found and to recognize that we need to
keep looking at our own imperfections and to reach out to correct
those that in our lifetime still exist.
In that sense, I am particularly pleased to have an opportunity
to be with you here today to share some observations at this
historic moment of transition for Hong Kong. We are particularly
delighted to visit Hong Kong, because the people of Hong Kong have
created a prosperity that is a tribute to endeavor. Your energy,
your courage, your vision, and your creativity have built a
standard of living admired throughout the world.
Expanding economic growth is a goal of our agenda in the US
Congress. We are about to begin a historic debate between a flat
income tax and the replacement of the income tax with ~a sales tax,
two choices that will dramatically improve the current Internal
Revenue Service 110,000-agent very complex system. As we discuss
Hong Kong's future, we also want your advice about America's
future. We have been asking questions beyond just the reversion
question. We have been asking about economic growth, about tax
codes. Hong Kong has a binding commitment to a balanced budget. It
has no outstanding government debt. It has a remarkably low tax
rate.
Not surprisingly, Hong Kong has remarkable economic growth. Ten
years of Hong Kong's growth rates would transform the American
economy and prove to the world that freedom and free enterprise are
the model for 21st century success. So, we Americans have much to
admire and to learn from you who have helped make Hong Kong a jewel
for the entire planet.
I am also here to use this moment to reflect on some enduring
American values, values that I believe can serve as a guide for the
transition that faces Hong Kong this summer. I am told the overall
view from Hong Kong, as the July 1 deadline approaches, continues
to be upbeat but cautious. Confidence and uncertainty often exist
together, especially for a society faced with momentous change.
As an American, I believe that the confidence to face that future
begins with a commitment to freedom. No American leaders would be
true to our tradition it they came here and congratulated you on
your economic achievements without also saying we believe that
economic vitality ultimately depends upon political and personal
freedom.
For that reason, America cannot remain silent about the lack of
basic freedom -- speech, religion, assembly, the press -- in China.
Were we to do so, we would not only betray our own tradition, we
would also fail to fulfill our obligation as a friend of both China
and of Hong Kong. For no one can be considered a true friend if
that person avoids the truth.
As Americans, we take seriously a country's commitment to human
rights. And I say this in the context of having already said: There
are failures in America, there are weaknesses, and there are places
where we can legitimately be criticized. And our answer should be
to listen to those critics and to look at those criticisms, and to
try to improve our performance. But we cannot look the other way
when the People's Republic of China ignores Article 35 of its own
Constitution by depriving a citizen of his free speech; we cannot
disregard its failure to uphold Article 36 of its own Constitution
every time it denies the free exercise of religion.
The truth is that any effort to provide a partial freedom to any
people, to tell them that they can be free in one sphere but not in
another, will ultimately fail. China needs to understand that
political freedom must accompany economic freedom. If it attempts
to restrict the freedom Hong Kong already enjoys, it will have
political -- and economic -- consequences.
We support the Sino-British Joint Declaration which governs the
peaceful reversion of Hong Kong to the People's Republic of China,
and we fully expect China to honor its pledge of "one country, two
systems." We are concerned that China has taken steps to weaken
Hong Kong's Bill of Rights. In addition, it has decided to dissolve
the elected legislative council on June 30.
As July 1 approaches, the leaders of Congress would look with deep
concern on any action that would undermine the Sino-British Joint
Declaration. We believe that preserving key elements of Hong Kong
society -- the rule of law, an independent civil service and
judiciary, respect for civil liberties, freedom of religion, a free
press -- is essential to Hong Kong's future.
If Hong Kong loses the things in which its society is grounded,
both American values and American interests will suffer, and the
people of Hong Kong will lose opportunity.
It is our strong view that China must maintain Hong Kong's
current laws regarding civil rights. These laws are necessary to
ensure its future prosperity. Even minor changes or seemingly minor
changes in these laws could undermine confidence in the rule of law
in Hong Kong which would significantly affect Hong Kong's
attractiveness as a regional center for commerce. Any unilateral
changes would indicate that China values power over keeping its
word.
A smooth transition in Hong Kong, consistent with the Joint
Agreement and Basic Law, will be a key test for Beijing. Reversion
will test Chinese standards of governance and international
conduct. How that transition is managed will be critical to the
future of Taiwan, to China's international standing, and to China's
relations with the United States.
Ultimately, we believe the transition for Hong Kong will succeed if
it leads to broader economic and political freedom for both
"systems." And as Americans, we believe that freedom strengthens
both the individual and society.
Our country reacts faster to crises, rectifies its mistakes more
rapidly, and maintains a more dynamic national consensus precisely
because it has a freely elected government based upon "We the
People." Those three words are the first three words of our
Constitution, and they frame our view of government.
People who are free to work anywhere come to America because they
know that America offers greater opportunity. People who are free
to study anywhere come to America because they know that there is
more creative research going on in our universities and
corporations than in any other country in the world. This freedom
and creativity derives from the deepest convictions of our people,
and it is built into the political and economic system that has
made us a great nation. The legislature invented by American's
Founding Fathers is a wonderful protection from any government that
would attempt to ignore or thwart the will of the people. That's
why the Constitution begins in Article I by establishing the branch
of government closest to the people, the United States Congress.
That branch is closest to the people because it is most sensitive
to any change that might infringe upon our liberty. Because the
founding fathers feared dictatorship, they wanted a government
designed to preserve freedom.
They deliberately created a system that dispersed the power of the
federal government widely: two legislative bodies, the executive
branch the judiciary. And they reserved all other powers to the
state and to the people. They recognized that while God gives us
freedom, governments all too often are ready to take that freedom
away.
Now America's history has been one of permanent tension between
order and freedom between government and the individual, between
selfishness and selflessness, between idealism and cynicism. For
over 200 years, Americans have worked, fought, sweated and bled, to
preserve and extend freedom to all people of all backgrounds from
all races and every country of the world.
Look around the world today. We are in the third decade of a global
democratic revolution. From Portugal and Spain in the
mid-seventies, to Latin America, Central and Eastern Europe, and the
Soviet Union and its allies, the old oppressive regimes have been
replaced with new democracies.
In some cases -- like the former Soviet Union -- the political
change preceded the creation of free markets, while in others --
like South Korea and Taiwan -- there was a substantial
transformation of the economic system before political freedom was
achieved.
But at the end of the day all found that freedom was indivisible.
It was not possible to grant one form of freedom -- whether
political or economic -- without finally granting it all.
And I want to suggest to you that beginning on July 1, Hong Kong
has a duty that is historic, because its great economic endeavor
can have a moral purpose -- the expansion of freedom.
As Americans, we believe our freedom is not the gift of any
government. It is a right bestowed by our Creator. With the liberty
we receive from God, we can work together and live together to
achieve remarkable things.
If you visit the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, you will find
etched in stone the Second Inaugural Address Lincoln delivered near
the end of our civil war. It is short enough to be one wall, yet it
refers to God twelve times. If you walk across to the Jefferson
Memorial, you will read on the wall, "The God who gave us life,
gave us liberty at the same time; the hand of force may destroy but
cannot disjoin them."
If you read our founding document, the Declaration of
Independence, you will find the fundamental belief that our Creator
has given us the inalienable rights of life, liberty, and the
pursuit of happiness. And at the conclusion of that great
declaration of freedom, you will read that the Founding Fathers
pledged their lives, their fortunes, and their sacred honor. They
viewed their "sacred" honor as their most valuable collateral, and
they put it at risk in order to secure the blessings of liberty
that we hold as our inalienable right. As Americans, we still
recognize today that we cannot be successful if we do not recognize
that our rights come from our Creator.
This American system of Creator-endowed rights based on
self-evident truths is as current as Microsoft, biotechnology, and the
space shuttle. However, its roots go back through our Founding
Fathers, to the signing of the Magna Carta in 1215, the creation of
Roman law 300 years before Christ, the rise of Greek democracy 500
years before Christ, the founding of Jerusalem by King David 3,000
years ago, and ultimately, to the statement of God's law given to
Moses in the earliest period of recorded history.
It all relates to East Asia. The Chinese word for crisis combines
the characters for "danger" and "opportunity." In that sense, Hong
Kong faces a "crisis" today. It has danger and opportunity. There
could be problems or there could be a greater Hong Kong of even
greater prosperity, of even greater importance, to the world. On
the one hand, Hong Kong confronts challenges and even dangers as it
approaches reversion to China. On the other hand, it has enormous
opportunities in technology, in entrepreneurship, in the sheer
level of human talent dedicated to dynamic economic growth.
For its part, China also faces a "crisis," meaning "danger" and
"opportunity." Mishandling reversion would endanger China's
relationship with Taiwan, the region, and the broader international
community. Honoring the commitments of the Joint Declaration and
the Basic Law, on the other hand, would not only enhance economic
growth in China; it would also strengthen China's standing in the
international community.
If you, as leaders in the Hong Kong business community, can
continue to harness the energy aroused by danger and opportunity,
and, I believe, virtually every entrepreneur every morning senses
both of those, we will all stand in admiration at the excitement
you continue to produce and the further progress you achieve as you
enter the 21st century.
Free societies rely on the courage, creativity, and commitment of
each individual citizen. Dictatorship may marshal the obedience of
their unthinking subjects, but democracies rely on the unique spark
of each person's God-given talent. It may be a far less orderly
society, but it is a vastly superior one.
Since each of us is uniquely endowed by the Creator with
inalienable rights, there is not and cannot be a single dream. A
free society has as many dreams as there are people. The power of
those dreams has made America a great country filled with good
people. The power of those dreams has made Hong Kong a uniquely
successful community admired and studied all around the world.
We want to see the continued fulfillment of the dream of each
citizen of Hong Kong. We want to be helpful and making sure that
the opportunity outweighs the danger. We recognize that this is a
long-term process, that true friendship and good neighbors require
much talking over a long period of time and, whenever possible,
require avoiding arguments in favor of having discussions. One of
the steps we are going to take, after talking with a wide range of
leaders here, including Mr. Tung, the current governor, the members
of the legislative council, members of the business community, is
that Congressmen Bereuter, who was the chairman of our Asia
subcommittee, will be regularly coming back at the advice and
suggestion of a very broad range of folks to visit here and to
visit Beijing in a positive way, to seek positive understanding, to
have a positive dialogue. We leave tonight to go to Beijing. We
hope to meet with members of the National People's Congress to talk
about the idea of a long-term relationship between our two
legislative bodies, to develop the understanding and the dialogue.
Now, creating freedom didn't happen overnight anywhere. Having a
healthy, open, free society is hard and going through transitions
is difficult. We have more than enough examples of pain and failure
in American history to not look on anyone with a judgmental sense
of superiority. But we also know that, in the end, adhering to the
great virtues of individual freedom and seeking to protect the
right of the maximum number of people pursuing the maximum amount
of happiness, because they get to define their lives is, in fact,
the ultimate destiny of the human race. And in that calm optimism
we can afford to reach out a helping hand to everyone, to have a
dialogue with anyone, and it is in that spirit of learning from
your successes, coming to understand your situation, and hopefully
having a genuine exchange in the next few days in Beijing and
beyond that, in Tokyo and in Taiwan, that we've started this trip.
I think just to tell you that we have all found Hong Kong to be
fully as remarkable as everyone always told us it was. Those of us
who are here for the first time, just as you would expect, are
overwhelmed by the achievement of the people of Hong Kong. And we
look forward to helping you build on that to a even better 21st
century.
Thank you very, very much.
ROK Government ("ROK LOOSENS FOOD AID LIMITS TO DPRK," Wen Hui
Daily, Seoul, A4, 4/1/97) announced on March 31st that it will allow
private groups to provide food aid including rice for the DPRK.
Seoul will also allow business groups to join the food aid programs
for the DPRK through economic organizations, the report said.
However, according to ROK officials, the aid, which can include
food, must be purchased abroad.
People's Daily ("JIANG PUTS FORWARD THREE PRINCIPLES OF SINO-US
RELATIONS," Beijing, A1, 3/27/97) reported that when meeting with
US Vice President Al Gore in Beijing on March 26, Chinese President
Jiang Zemin put forward three principles of bilateral relations.
According to the newspaper, Jiang pointed out that Chinese and US
leaders should unswervingly hold on the common interests of their
countries and deal with bilateral relations from a strategic and
long-term view. In addition, the to-the-letter implementation of
the three Sino-US joint communiqués, which govern the US
relationship with Taiwan, is also important to the development of
Sino-US relations.
On March 28, Chinese President Jiang Zemin, Premier Li Peng and
Vice-Premier Zhu Rongji respectively met with US House of
Representatives Speaker Newt Gingrich in Beijing. During his
meeting with Gingrich, Jiang described current Sino-US ties as
"clearing up after a rain," and stressed the importance and
sensitivity of the Taiwan issue. He said, China hopes the US
Congress will play an active and constructive role in promoting
bilateral relations. When Li Peng met with Gingrich, he denounced
the so-called "China threat" as alleged by some people, saying that
China poses no threat to anyone and does not seek a so-called
"sphere of influence." People's Daily ("CHINESE LEADERS MEET WITH
GINGRICH," Beijing, A1-2, 3/29/97)
At a regular news briefing on April 1, Chinese Foreign Ministry
spokesman Shen Guofang said that the US is now selling large
amounts of advanced weapons to Taiwan. This has, to some extent,
appeased and backed the separatist forces in Taiwan Island, and
placed obstacles to the peaceful reunification of China. Shen
said, China hopes that the US Government could adopt a policy of
non-interference into China's internal affairs, stop selling
advanced weapons to Taiwan and observe the three Sino-U.S. joint
communiqués. China hopes for a peaceful reunification with Taiwan
under a "one country, two systems" formula, Shen said, and the
pressing matter at present is to start high-level political talks
between the mainland and Taiwan to resolve all outstanding
cross-Straits issues, which he said would help realize the peaceful
reunification of the motherland. Commenting on a statement by
Speaker of the US House of Representatives Newt Gingrich that the
US would defend Taiwan if Taiwan was attacked militarily, the
spokesman said, what methods China will adopt to resolve the Taiwan
issue is China's internal affair, and China does not need any
foreigners to make improper remarks on the issue. China Daily ("US
URGED NOT TO STEP IN INTERNAL AFFAIRS," A1, 4/2/97)
At a joint press conference after meeting with his Russian
counterpart Evgeny Primakov, Chinese Foreign Minister Qian Qichen
expressed satisfaction with the results of his talks with Yeltsin
and Primakov. Qian expressed his belief that "the two things --
the creation of strategic partnership between China and Russia and
reductions of armed forces in the border areas of the countries
concerned -- would put forward a new concept that is different from
the thought of the `cold war', and would have a deep influence in
Asia and Pacific areas, as well as the entire world." Qian
stressed that the strategic partnership between China and Russia is
not an alliance against other countries. China Daily ("JIANG,
YELTSIN WILL SIGN ACCORD AT MOSCOW SUMMIT," Moscow, A1, 3/27/97)
Jie Fang Daily ("JIANG, LI MEET WITH JAPANESE FM," Beijing, A1,
3/31/97) reported that Chinese President Jiang Zemin and Premier Li
Peng respectively met with visiting Japanese Foreign Minister Ikeda
Yukihiko on March 30. Regarding the issue of Taiwan, Jiang said
during the meeting that the crux of the issue is that foreign
countries should not interfere in China's internal affairs by
taking any action which will harm the reunification of China and
hurt the felling of the Chinese people. Ikeda reaffirmed the
Japanese Government's deep retrospection and sincere apology for
its history of aggression, pledging that this position will never
change. On the issue of Taiwan, he noted that Japan will adhere to
the "one Chine" policy and hopes that the two sides across the
straits will settle the issue of reunification peacefully. In
another meeting with Ikeda on March 29, Chinese Foreign Minister
Qian Qichen reiterated China's stand on the Diaoyu Islands issue,
saying that the Japanese Government should restrain right-wing
groups in Japan from causing more trouble on the issue to prevent
them from hindering the general situation of Sino-Japanese
relations. Ikeda agreed that territorial disputes should not
affect the overall situation of Sino-Japanese relations. The
Japanese Government will deal with the issue with a somber mind and
endeavor to prevent another outbreak of trouble, he added. It will
also carry out a further study of possible measures to be taken in
this regard, Ikeda said.
5. Dalai Lama's Visit to Taiwan
A meeting between the Dalai Lama and Lee Teng-hui was condemned by
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Cui Tiankai on March 27. Cui
said that Taiwan and Tibet are inalienable parts of China and it is
well-known that the Dalai Lama has been conducting separatist
activities in many places in the world. According to him, Dalai's
Taiwan trip had political motives. He said, China is firmly
opposed to any activities that could split the motherland. China
Daily ("TAIWAN, TIBET SEPARATISM DENOUNCED BY FM OFFICIAL," A1,
3/28/97)
6. Commenting on US Role to Asia's Security
HE Fang, the former director of the Institute of Japanese Studies
under the Chinese Academy of Social Science, said on China Daily
("US THREATENS ASIA'S SECURITY," A4, 4/2/97) that it is US foreign
policy that has the most direct bearing on security in Asia.
According to him, another unstable factor in Asia is Japan. He
said, Japan may not become a major military power by the turn of
the century. But its future development is a key issue in Asian
security. In the field of regional security, HE said, Asian
countries have, in fact, begun actively exploring cooperation
through channels such as the ASEAN forum. Security cooperation is
totally different from bilateral military alliances stemming from
the Cold War, like the one between the US and Japan. Such a
bilateral military alliance can by no means safeguard security in
Asia, he said.
[The following editorial opinion is by Dr. Jeremy J. Stone,
President of the Federation of American Scientists. Comments may be
submitted directly to Dr. Stone jstone@fas.org, and/or to the
NAPSNet Forum, napsnet@nautilus.org. Submissions to the NAPSNet
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those of the Nautilus Institute or the underwriters of the
Institute's work.]
Pointless Political Haggling While A Nation Starves
As North Korea declines economically, it is far more likely to
collapse into the arms of its Northern neighbor, China, rather
than into the arms of its brethren in South Korea. But South
Korea, assuming that a collapse would mean Korean unification, is
using its influence to discourage large scale food aid from Japan
and the United States. This geopolitical misunderstanding is
causing needless suffering and could cause many deaths.
The Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) will likely
collapse to the North because China -- unlike South Korea -- is willing
and, indeed, eager, to keep North Korea in business. In 1950,
China spent one million Chinese lives, and even risked its newly
minted revolution, to support North Korea. China likes weak, and
preferably socialist, states on its periphery. And a disaster
means many refugees crossing the Yalu river into China. So leaders
in Pyongyang know they can always get a relatively friendly
reception from big brother in Beijing.
By contrast, calling in the South Koreans would be politically
suicidal and unthinkable for the North's leader Kim Jong Il or for
the North Korean military. And unless the South is called in, the
tightly controlled DPRK army, which has better rations than the
population at large, will man the Demilitarized Zone between North
and South Korea right up to the end with weapons in reserve that
can reach the South's capitol, Seoul. This will deter the South
Korean Army from entering, even if the Chinese army has crossed the
Yalu to distribute food.
Under these circumstances, Seoul should put aside its fully
justified hate for the North's government, which has invaded it,
and threatened it, and should try to help, rather than hinder, food
aid to the North and stop insisting on prior political concessions.
Meanwhile, the Chinese, who are already providing 500,000 tons of
grain annually, should be asking for market reforms, and
liberalization, in return for further food aid. If the Chinese
delay too long in working out the terms of constructive change in
return for further help, the North will become an albatross around
China's neck. The North's ever more exhausted population, led by
the world's most ideological -- and hence highly incompetent -- Government
will, in time, become unable to function effectively to help itself.
These and other necessary negotiations are hampered by the three-year
mourning period of Kim Jong Il for the death of his father,
Kim Il Sung, a period expected to end in July. During this period,
Kim Jong Il has not met with foreigners. But since he has asked
the population to "put aside its grief" during this emergency,
perhaps the Chinese Government, and others, could ask him to put
aside his own grief long enough to receive high-level emissaries.
And the emergency is coming up fast. Food supplies are thought to
be running out this Spring, some reports say next month. The next
real harvest is in September-October. The World Food Program is
struggling to get subscriptions for a mere 100,000 tons of food
when all agree a minimum of 1,000,000 tons is needed to fill the
gap. There is concern among experts as to whether the exhausted
population will emerge from the winter with enough energy to do the
very heavy work required in the Spring planting.
A UN Development Program leader, Arthur Holcombe, reported in
Beijing, last week, that malnutrition is widespread in flood
devastated areas, that infants are not growing properly and that
night-blindness, rickets and scurvy are common, especially among
children. Experts fear a generation of North Korean children
permanently weakened not just physically but mentally by
malnutrition. There are now rumors of the North applying a
"tourniquet" strategy of triage in which seriously deficit regions
are simply being allowed to die without any food distributions.
Since the North will not provide pictures, or permit surveys, even
to the food-aid groups who need them to sound the alarm, these
North Koreans are starving as voicelessly and helplessly as Jews
died in Hitler's concentration camps.
And not just starvation is at issue but the possibility of war.
Fifty years ago, the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor despite studies
in their files showing they could never win a war against the
United States. In a similar display of oriental determination and
fatalism, encouraged by intense indoctrination, one cannot preclude
an irrational last-ditch attack by the North's army on the South
and that would, of course, involve our forces.
The time has come for an intense series of bilateral consultations,
between the U.S., South Korea, Japan and China to discuss,
explicitly, last-ditch contingencies and trends. One might well
wish that Pyongyang's Orwellian regime, which has caused so much
repressed suffering to its gagged population, would disappear. But
today China is unlikely to permit this to happen even if the North
were willing to go quietly into the night, which it likely will
not. And the costs and risks are such that regional planning is in
order for the time, clearly coming in years if not months, when
North Korea goes into some kind of collapse or receivership.
-- Jeremy J. Stone is President of the Federation of American
Scientists (FAS)
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NOTE: From March 24 through April 6, the Daily Report will be on an abbreviated schedule.
There will be three reports the week of March 24 and two reports the week of March 31, while our
regular NAPSNet staff is out of the country at a conference. Your understanding is appreciated.
1. DPRK Food Crisis
II. People's Republic of China
2. US Senators' DPRK Visit
3. Hwang Defection
4. Gingrich's Asia Visit
5. USIA Foreign Media Reaction Daily Digest (4/2/97)
6. USIA Text (4/1/97): Gingrich 3/27 Remarks at AmCham Hong Kong
1. ROK Food Aid to DPRK
III. Dr. Jeremy J. Stone, "Pointless Political Haggling While A Nation Starves"
2. PRC-US Relations
3. PRC-Russian Relations
4. PRC-Japan Relations
5. Dalai Lama's Visit to Taiwan
6. Commenting on US Role to Asia's Security
I. United States
II. People's Republic of China
III. Dr. Jeremy J. Stone, "Pointless Political Haggling While A Nation Starves"
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