US calls new China law on Taiwan "unhelpful"

WASHINGTON - The White House on Tuesday branded China's new anti-secession legislation regarding Taiwan "unhelpful" and urged Beijing to reconsider the measure.
"We view it as unhelpful and something that runs counter to recent trends toward a warming in cross-strait relations. We would call on Beijing to reconsider passage of the law," said spokesman Scott McClellan.
"The draft law that was presented allows for punitive measures directed at Taiwan. We oppose any attempts to determine the future of Taiwan by anything other than peaceful means," McClellan told reporters.
Earlier, China lifted the veil on the much-anticipated legislation which will give its military the legal basis for attacking Taiwan, prompting the island to warn peace in the region is under threat.
War might be the only option left for China's decision makers if all other avenues to get Taiwan back are exhausted, according to Wang Zhaoguo, vice chairman of the National People's Congress, or parliament.

03/08/2005 18:21 GMT