TAIPEI (XFN-ASIA) - Polling stations across Taiwan opened today for
elections to choose a new president for the island.
Opposition Kuomintang candidate Ma Ying-jeou is facing Frank Hsieh of the
pro-independence ruling Democratic Progressive Party in a contest that is seen
having a bearing on Taiwan's ties with China.
Polls opened at 8 am and will close at 4 pm. Final official results are
expected within hours on who will succeed President Chen Shui-bian, who is
stepping down after two terms.
Both Ma, who is considered the frontrunner, and Hsieh have vowed to work to
improve relations with China.
The island's more than 17 mln voters are also being asked to cast ballots in
two rival referendums on joining the United Nations.
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