I had listened podcast:"Protests in Taipei over possible trade deal with China"

Officials from China and Taiwan are meeting near Taipei for two days of talks on a controversial trade liberalisation agreement.The agreement could have a big impact on Taiwan. Taiwanese society remains divided on whether free trade with China would be good or bad for the island, which Beijing wants one day to take back. But despite objections from certain sectors, Taiwan's government hopes to sign the deal by June. Tens of thousands of protesters gathered in central Taiwan's Taichung City to protest against the proposed agreement during the visit of a top Chinese negotiator in December. On Wednesday, only about 150 people protested, some clashing with police outside the meeting venue near Taipei. Those who oppose it say the agreement would hurt Taiwan's workers - as cheaper Chinese products flood the market after tariffs are cut. Worse, they fear the deal will make the island economically dependent on China, and harm its independence and sovereignty. But the government insists Taiwan cannot afford not to reach a free-trade deal with China - its biggest trade partner, especially as Beijing signs similar deals with other countries.The government says the agreement would allow the island to enjoy tariff-free trade with China, gain greater access to China's market, increase economic growth and create jobs. With the 2012 presidential election not far away, Taiwan's president has vowed not to sell out Taiwan and to keep Taiwan's interest as top priority. China is also unwilling to see Taiwan's anti-China opposition party win the next presidential race. That is why, analysts say, Beijing will probably give in to Taiwan's demands in the talks.