China and Taiwan representatives met Tuesday for landmark, previously “unimaginable” discussions aimed, most likely, at opening more doors to trade.
The exact nature of the talks wasn’t revealed, but Beijing has been pressing for Taiwan to ratify a deal that would let businesses open shop in each other’s territories, The Associated Press reported.
The fact the two sides met for a sit-down was historic in itself.
Taiwan and China split in 1949, and since, Beijing has refused to recognize the island as a sovereign government.
“Our meeting had been something unimaginable before, but if we really want to achieve breakthroughs, we must apply a bit of creativity,” said China’s leading negotiator, Xhang Zhijun, in the AP report.
Wang Yu-chi, the head of Taiwan’s delegation, meanwhile, said the get-together “shows that the two sides’ relations have truly entered a new stage, and this is truly a day for the record books.”
• Cheryl K. Chumley can be reached at cchumley@washingtontimes.com.
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