Hundreds of protesters have occupied the legislature to stop the review of a controversial agreement with China.
The protestors, mostly students, broke through security barriers and took over the legislative chamber Tuesday night. It is the first such occupation of the building in Taiwan's history. The protestors called on the legislature to review the pact clause by clause.
Just a day before students took action, lawmakers from the ruling Kuomintang passed an initial review of the agreement, going back on a promise to undertake a clause-by-clause review. The ruling party holds a majority in the legislature.
The controversial trade in services agreement with China was signed last June and has yet to be approved by the legislature. While supporters say that the agreement will further liberalize Taiwan's economy, critics say that it will annihilate the country's service industry and open up Taiwan to a hostile regime.
On Wednesday the standoff continued. More protestors gathered outside the legislature in support of the students. President of the legislature, Wang Jin-pyng, said he regrets the protestors' actions.
"Last night some people scaled our walls and occupied the legislative chamber," said Wang. "They damaged public property and kept out some policemen. I think all these set a bad example and I deeply regret it."
The Legislature President called on protestors to calm down. He also said that he hopes the dispute can be resolved peacefully.