A decision designed to end confusion at borders is the latest source of unease in relations between Taiwan and China. The Taiwan government decided recently to add the words "issued in Taiwan" to the passports it supplies its citizens. The move was criticized at home and abroad. If that energy could be devoted to efforts at reconciliation, rather than condemnation, there might be progress in cross-Strait relations.
Taiwanese President Chen Shui-bian announced last week that his government would add the words "issued in Taiwan" in Roman script across the bottom of its passports. He said the move would end confusion between Taiwanese passports and those issued by China, and end the "insult" that occurred whenever immigration officials confused the passport holders with mainland Chinese.
For the Beijing government, the move was another attempt to split the island from the mainland. Chinese spokesmen called the decision another step toward independence and "de-Sinification." They may have a point. The announcement was made at a party for a U.S.-based lobbying group with proindependence inclinations; Mr. Chen said the move was the group's "birthday present."