China reportedly builds simulation of Taiwan airport for practice bombing

China reportedly builds simulation of Taiwan airport for practice bombing

TAIPEI, Taiwan (April 28, 1999 1:50 p.m. EDT http://www.nandotimes.com) - China has built a military airport identical to one in Taiwan so it can practice bombing the island, a newspaper reported Wednesday.

The airport, simulating Chingchuankang Airport in central Taiwan, is located in northwestern Gansu Province, next to the Dingxin airbase, the China Times Express reported.

The Defense Ministry declined comment on the report, which quoted unidentified Taiwanese officials as saying China appears eager to test its ability to attack Taiwan.

China has refused to renounce the use of force against Taiwan, which severed political ties after communists took over the mainland in 1949. They resumed formal contact six years ago Thursday but broke off talks in 1995 over Taiwan's attempts to raise its international profile.

Taiwan's top negotiator with Beijing, Koo Chen-fu, said Wednesday the two sides should set practical goals for the expected visit of his Chinese counterpart in September.

Beijing insists Taiwan first agree to discuss political issues leading to reunification of the rivals.

Though Beijing hosted a visit by Koo to China last year that yielded a commitment to continue contacts, it has made no real moves toward resuming the talks.