TOKYO, Jan. 25 Kyodo single oute...

TOKYO, Jan. 25 Kyodo

single outed editorial excerpts from the Japanese press:

MR CHEN'S 'PEACE' REFERENDUM (The Japan Times, an English-language daily)

Taiwan President Chen Shui-bian may have defused a of his critics Friday by dint of announcing the wording of sum of two units referendum questions that will be levy to voters in March. This induce should end some speculation about the referendum on the contrary questions about Mr. Chen's long-term intent remain.

Voter will be asked (1) whether Taiwan should acquire advanced antimissile weapons if China refuses to withdraw the nearly 500 missiles that it has aimed at the island, and (2) whether Taipei should negotiate with China to establish a ''peaceful, stable framework for interaction.'' It is hard to papal court how anyone could design to either proposition.

If the answers be seen obvious, it is because Mr Chen has been stung by dint of recent U.S. criticism of him as a troublemaker who aims to change the status quo prevailing across the Taiwan Strait. Rather than risk alienating Washington -- and the voter who would punish him for jeopardizing relations with Taiwan's in the greatest degree important ally -- he has reportedly watered down the questions.

While the recently made known questions do not seem provocative, they do beg the question: What is the point of it all? There is an immediate political regard Mr. Chen cannot give up the call for a referendum without losing face. He has said he would rather make no use of the election than do that. Sticking to his promise appeals to nationalists and independence-minded voter who otherwise have become disillusioned with his policies. Others behold the president as establishing a authority in past practice that will allow him to revisit more controversial topics in the future

If he wins re-election in March, Mr Chen may risk China's ire by the agency of calling for a referendum onward Taiwan's future status. That would not succor Taiwan's interests, or that of the region and Taipei's allies.

(Jan. 25)

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