The Indian CBM experience in J&K, based on people-to-people contact through increased trans-LoC movement of affected citizens, found much support. Ma Ying-jeou places emphasis on greater movement between population segments of the two states.

A visit to Kinmin was indicative of the potential of this strategy. Kinmin, a small island within sight of mainland China, is an hour’s flight from Taipei. Chiang Kai-shek made his last stand against the People’s Republic of China on this island. In his successful defence, replete with a failed armada assault by the Chinese and other battles, he was massively supported by the US Navy and Air Force. Kinmin is dotted with impressive museums commemorating these battles.

There are also amazing under-sea tunnels where the KMT had sheltered its naval craft. Kinmin is also the single entry point for trade and tourism movement between the two states. There are dozens of ships transiting daily between the island and mainland. There are new hotels built in Taipei — awaiting mainland tourists. There is increased curiosity in the mainland vis-a-vis Taiwan’s culture. There is a widespread desire in Taiwan for closer integration into China’s economy.

War with China is the last thing on Taiwanese minds — even as the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Air Force flies more than a thousand combat sorties every day close to Taiwan’s air space. In the main memorial on Kinmin island, there is a photograph of the young Ma Ying-jeou with Chiang Kai-shek visiting the place.

That the president-elect no longer represents an anti-China perspective but wants to build a stable future between the two states is a historic change. China’s sense of vulnerability as also its commitment to its unity and territorial integrity is not to be underestimated. Its demand of the Dalai Lama — to publicly acknowledge Tibet and Taiwan as parts of China — is part of a concerted plan to combine the two flanks of its territorial uncertainties.

... contd.