Taiwan Moves Towards China

In elections this week, both candidates advocate closer mainland ties

Ma Ying-jeou took an early lead in Taiwan's presidential race in an election that will set the pace of improving relations with China after eight years of confrontation under the pro-independence rule of Chen Shui-bian.

Ma advocates a quicker approach compared to his opponent, Hsieh's more cautious tack.Hsieh has tried to portray Ma's policies -- such as a pledge to work toward a peace treaty with the mainland -- as exposing Taiwan to situations such as China's crackdown on pro-independence protests in Tibet.

``Taiwan is not Hong Kong, nor is it Tibet,''
Ma responded after he voted.

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