EDITORIAL LETTERS

Accepting Muslims In America

Regarding the front-page article ''Muslims in America,'' Jan. 22: The Monitor's treatment of Islam is a breath of fresh air.

The portrayal of educated, quiescent Muslim Americans is the right response to the constant stereotyping of Muslims in the news media. Indeed, it is time for Americans to embrace their Muslim brothers and sisters, realizing that they are inclined to integrate and join the melting pot.

This integration can only take place with effort on the part of US citizens to accept Muslims instead of discriminating against them. The Monitor's commitment to present the Muslims throughout the holy month of Ramadan is a great gesture of respect.

Yasmine A. Salaam

Medford, Mass.

Another cold war? Unlikely

Regarding the opinion-page article ''Like the First Cold War? We're Headed for Another,'' Jan. 18: The author discusses the possibility of another cold war developing between the US and the People's Republic of China, with the Taiwan Straits serving as the battleground. I'd like to clarify the fundamental issues guiding cross-Straits relations.

The issue of independence forms the crux of the cross-Straits relationship. China has made it clear that it will resort to the use of force against the Republic of China on Taiwan should Taiwan declare independence. This situation isn't likely to arise, as both China and Taiwan are dedicated to the goal of eventual reunification by peaceful means. While some in Taiwan are calling for independence, it should be realized that, like the US, Taiwan is a free and open society in which many opinions are expressed openly.

The author also intimates that conditions are ripe for an arms race between China and Taiwan. This is a misrepresentation of the current military balance in Asia. It is highly unlikely that Taiwan, with a population of 22 million, poses a great threat to China with its 1 billion-plus citizens.

In invoking the term ''second cold war,'' and in advising against ''linkage'' policies, the author warns against ''containment'' of the People's Republic of China. The geopolitical realities of East Asia militate against a policy of ''appeasement'' as well.

Eddy Tsai Boston

Director

Taipei Economic and

Cultural Office

Information Division