Chinese leader cools off in Paradise

PHUKET: Chinese President Jiang Zemin took a sight-seeing break in torrential rains here today at the end of a state visit to Bangkok in which he repeatedly pushed Beijing’s claim to sovereignty over Taiwan, and warned harshly against “meddling” by the West. Jiang, who is due to depart for Australia at sunrise tomorrow, visited a shell museum accompanied by Thailand’s Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn this morning and is calling on Chinese businessmen and community leaders this afternoon. Accompanied by an entourage of 80, the Chinese leader is staying at the five-star Sheraton Grande Laguna Beach Resort, where he will dine this evening with Phuket Governor Chadej Insawang.