Taipei, June 24: As Taiwan's government pushes for an Islandwide referendum that could enflame already tense relations with China, Washington warned the Island against being provocative.
The United States regularly urges Taiwan to “refrain from actions or statements that increase tension" with China, US State Department spokesman Philip T Reeker said in response to a question about the proposed referendum.
Taiwan's government wants voters to decide on an issue that on its face has nothing to do with China relations, in a referendum asking whether a partially finished nuclear power plant should be completed.
The Island's leaders also want an election on whether Taiwan should try to join the World Health Organisation.
Beijing fears that such elections might set a precedent for Taiwanese to vote on whether the Island should seek a permanent split with China.
Bureau Report
