CHINA> Taiwan, HK, Macao
Mainland is economic lifeline for Taiwan: Ma
By Xing Zhigang and Wu Jiao (China Daily)
Updated: 2008-12-04 06:49

Yesterday, Ma also ruled out a visit by the Dalai Lama to the island, saying the timing is not right.

"I think at the current moment, the timing isn't appropriate for that," he said.

His remarks were in response to widely circulated reports that the Dalai Lama proposes to visit the island in the coming months.

The Dalai Lama visited Taiwan in 1997 and 2001 during the rule of former island leaders Li Teng-hui and Chen Shui-bian.

Mainland experts said on Wednesday Ma has made "a right and wise decision" on a sensitive issue.

"Cross-Straits ties have made historic progress since Ma took office. Both sides should treasure the current momentum and avoid making any move that may harm it," said Hu Yan, a Tibetologist at the CPC Central Committee's Party School.

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