Historic visit of Chinese envoy to Taiwan

THE most senior Chinese official to visit Taiwan since the end of a civil war 60 years ago said yesterday that historic talks to take place this week are the only way to build trust between the arch rivals.

Chen Yunlin arrived in Taipei from Beijing for talks on strengthening economic ties, as supporters of independence for the island staged demonstrations and planned mass rallies against his visit.

He landed amid tight security at Taiwan’s international airport just before midday (04.00 GMT) for a five-day visit during which he will meet his Taiwanese counterparts, as well as the island’s president, Ma Ying-jeou.