Relations with mainland China are in flux, as the United States goes through the rituals of China-bashing in its presidential election, and U.S. military planners looking more carefully at the potential for future conflicts with the Communist giant.
But on the upside in Asia is a new step toward easier American commercial relations with the democratic Republic of China on Taiwan.
Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano announced that from Dec. 1, Taiwan joins 36 countries whose nationals can travel to the U.S. for tourism or business for 90 days without a visa.
It’s not a privilege enjoyed by China, a fact instantly bemoaned by many Chinese citizens on the Internet, where despite rampant government censorship there is a growing amount of commentary about government and politics.
Visa-free travel is particularly good for business, and with a vibrant economy, Taiwan is a major U.S. trading partner.
We commend the Obama administration for this step. As a democracy, we have a natural connection with the people of Taiwan.
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