Singapore media praises direct links between Chinese mainland, Taiwan

Source: Xinhua | 12-16-2008 13:31

SINGAPORE, Dec. 16 (Xinhua) -- Singapore's leading newspapers Tuesday highly praised the launch of the "three links" between the Chinese mainland and Taiwan, calling it a milestone of cross-strait relations.

The Local newspaper Lianhe Zaobao said in its editorial that the direct links will bring the cross-strait relations into a new era.

It said that the advancement will greatly cut costs and improve efficiency, which is a "really good thing" for businessmen and citizens from both sides.

"The realization of direct links came at the right time," the Chinese language newspaper said, adding "as it will help both economies to weather the current global financial crisis by increasing trade and commercial communication and reducing pressure from contracting outside market."

The Straits Times said the launch of the "three links" between the Chinese mainland and Taiwan marked the milestone at sea and airports across strait. "The direct links ended the tedious and costly practice of routing passengers, goods and mail via a third place," it said.

In a brief statement released Monday night, Singapore's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) said that the country "warmly welcomes the launch of direct air, sea and postal links between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait."

A spokesman of the MFA said that this positive development will benefit both sides and will be good for regional stability.

Editor:Zhang Ning