TAIPEI, Taiwan, Feb. 28 (UPI) -- Former U.S. President Bill Clinton upset pro-independence Taiwanese by voicing support for "one China" during a visit to the island.
Clinton also irritated China by meeting pro-independence President Chen Shui-bian Sunday evening in Taipei and again Monday, Channel NewsAsia reported. China's Xinhua news agency said Clinton should abide by U.S. commitments and oppose Taiwan's independence.
Speaking Sunday to the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy, Clinton said he had no doubt China would attack Taiwan if it moves toward independence, despite U.S. objections. He also said the "one China" policy, under which China claims Taiwan as part of its territory, provided protection for the island.
Su Chin-chiang, chairman of the Taiwan Solidarity Union, complained that the remark was hurtful to Taiwanese.
Clinton's visit followed a trip to mainland China to promote AIDS awareness.
Also Monday, Clinton met opposition leader Lien Chan and signed copies of his autobiography "My Life" at Taipei 101, the world's tallest building.
