| Taiwan's pro-independence parties lost a hotly contested legislative election Saturday — a defeat that might reduce the risk of a conflict with China but also continue the political gridlock that has paralyzed one of Asia's youngest democracies. The loss was a big blow to President Chen Shui-bian, who tirelessly campaigned for candidates and promised to use his control of parliament to revise the constitution and push for a new Taiwanese identity — pledges that unnerved China. Chinese leaders dislike Chen because he refuses to accept their goal of unification. Taiwan has had loose ties with the mainland — just 100 miles to the west — throughout much of China's history. The Communists, who took over China in 1949, say Taiwan must unify eventually or endure a punishing attack. |