[cryptomc]

>>(3) to make clear that the United States decision to establish diplomatic relations with the People's Republic of China rests upon the expectation that the future of Taiwan will be determined by peaceful means;

That is a key part of the TRA. When the Chicoms passed that law last year declaring they will retake the island by force if necessary, they in effect violated the terms of the TRA and therefore, our diplomatic relations with the PRC should be severed. However, I wouldn't hold my breath on it.

[gondramB]

"That is a key part of the TRA. When the Chicoms passed that law last year declaring they will retake the island by force if necessary, they in effect violated the terms of the TRA and therefore, our diplomatic relations with the PRC should be severed. However, I wouldn't hold my breath on it."

That is a key aprt but I don't remember the Chinese statement that way - i remember them saying they would prevent Taiwan from declaring independence by force. As for breaking relations the way I read that is that it would require more than just words -China would have to "do something."