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historic event involving China and Taiwan will take place today, Saturday, November 7th. Chinese president Xi Jinping and Taiwanese president Ma Ying-Jeou will meet for discussions in Singapore. It is first summit at presidential level to take place between China and Taiwan since end of Chinese civil war in 1949. Taiwan is just 180 km from China but their relations have remained cautious and, at times, frosty for decades. China considers Taiwan to be part of its territory and therefore does not regard it as separate nation. Only 22 foreign governments recognise Taiwan as independent country. status of Taiwan is one of more difficult problems in international politics to find solution to.

meeting between two leaders is major stepping stone to repair decades-old divisions. It could pave way for similar meetings in future. Special etiquette is already in place for milestone encounter. two parties have decided not to use term "president" to address each other. Instead, they will use word "mister". Further, two leaders will not sign any agreements. Neither will they issue any joint statements or hold joint press conference. A Chinese official said the meeting is to, "exchange views on promoting peaceful development of [our] relations". spokesman for Mr Ma said the talks, "aim to solidify relations between two sides and keep the status quo".