Taiwan's top China officials resign ahead of anticipated reshuffle

TAIPEI (AFP) - Two top Taiwanese officials in charge of China affairs on Wednesday announced their resignations ahead of an anticipated government reshuffle.

Mr Chiang Pin-kung, 79, said he has tendered his resignation as Taiwan's chief negotiator with China and head of semi-official Straits Exchange Foundation due to his advanced age.

Ms Lai Shin-yuan, chairman of the Mainland Affairs Council, the top China policy-making body, announced that she will take over as Taiwan's representative to the World Trade Organisation.

Ms Lai was not involved in talks with China due to the lack of formal ties between the formal rivals, and it has been Mr Chiang's job to handle negotiations.