China

Re “No Breakthrough in China Reform,” Feb. 2: Jim Mann’s article fails to mention the real cause of “no breakthrough.” It is understandable that there is a state of war between mainland China and Taiwan and that Uncle Sam continues to sell arms to one side, Taiwan. Under this circumstance, the mainland government does not entertain any Western ideas such as democracy, human rights, etc. that can weaken its authority to defend itself against subversion by the U.S. Indeed, the selling of arms and meddling in the civil war by the U.S. are the real causes that prolong the “breakthrough” of reform.

The Taiwan government has not been willing to sit down and start negotiations. Without starting a negotiation, how can any settlement be possible? The continuing sale of arms by Uncle Sam to Taiwan continues to encourage that government against negotiation. Therefore, I would say that the progress of liberalization for the Chinese people is now denied by the actions of the U.S. Congress and government.

STEVE S. LAU

Huntington Beach