The rejection of Aegis won't look like it's a 'no' forever.

I think this decision shows the Bush administration took Taiwan's defense needs seriously. It also shows Bush understands that the balance of power is tilting toward China.

We won't be totally disappointed because there will be other goodies in the package.

But the Bush administration is treating him with respect and goodwill. We consider this to be an important development in Taiwan's relations with the U.S.

In the past, (U.S. President Bill) Clinton treated our president like a hostage, under house arrest.