Taiwan Opposition's Unity Bid Falters, Jeopardizing China Ties

Taiwan's opposition parties, the Kuomintang (KMT) and Taiwan People's Party (TPP), which both seek closer ties with China, have registered separate presidential candidates after a dramatic split, potentially benefiting the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP). China, viewing Taiwan as its own territory, has increased military and political pressure on the island to accept its sovereignty claims. The opposition parties failed to reach an agreement on a united presidential ticket, and the KMT walked out of talks with the TPP. The DPP, in contrast, has a united front and is charging ahead in its election campaign.