They are also deeply suspicious about letting democratic Taiwan become too dependent on its giant, authoritarian neighbour.

BBC: Taiwan backs Ma, but unease over China remains

But democratic Taiwan cannot be highhandedly turned over to Beijing the way the colonies of Macao and Hong Kong were.

FORBES: Fact And Comment

Even as things stand now, according to the Security Review Commission, the PLA's build-up may put it in a position as early as 2005-2007 to move against democratic Taiwan.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: Wall Street's 'Poisoned Apples'