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Not to digress, but this also showed up on the Gertz file. (It makes me wonder if the Chicoms might attack Taiwan while we are preoccupied with terrorist threats):

From Bill Gertz's website:

www.gertzfile.com/gertzfi...eRing.html
Chinese interference

Niu Qingbao, an aggressive advocate of communist China at Bejing's embassy in Washington, has sent an e-mail to Senate aides urging them to warn their bosses against supporting Taiwan's upcoming referendum.

At issue, is a "Dear Colleague" letter circulating in the House that calls on lawmakers to go on record supporting the island's March 10 voter referendum. The referendum calls for peaceful means to settle the China-Taiwan issue.

"We believe that you, the people of Taiwan have consistently demonstrated your passion for human rights, transparency, and the democratic process," states the letter sponsored by Rep. Dana Rohrabacher, California Republican, and Rep. Peter Deutsch, Florida Democrat. Addressed to the people of Taiwan, the letter adds, "Your 23 million citizens have earned the right to decide for yourselves the issues affecting your well-being and security."

The Senate Republican Policy Committee is circulating the House letter in hopes of starting a similar message in the Senate. An aide said that interference by Mr. Qingbao is helping to spark interest.

Mr. Qingbao's e-mail to Senate aides said, in part, "I have learnt with grave concern that Congressmen Peter Deutsch and Dana Rohrabacher have issued a public statement in support of the 'referendum' advocated by [President] Chen Shui-bian of Taiwan and are soliciting co-signature of other members. "As experts on foreign affairs, you know only too well that this 'referendum' has nothing to do with democracy and everything to do with abusing democracy as a cover for Chen's pursuit of 'Taiwan independence' and getting himself re-elected on the very day of March 20.

"I thank you for your attention and hope you will advise your senator against cosigning this open statement should it come to your attention."

Washington and Beijing adhere to the "one-China" policy, refusing to recognize Taiwan's independence. But President Bush has said the United States will come to the island's aid if China invades.