BEIJING: In a significant meeting on Friday, Chinese President Xi Jinping welcomed Cheng Li-wun, the leader of Taiwan’s opposition party, the Kuomintang (KMT), in Beijing. Xi expressed “full confidence” in the potential for unity between the people of Taiwan and China.
Cheng’s visit marks the first time in a decade that a KMT chairperson has traveled to China, a trip that has stirred controversy back home, with some critics claiming she leans too much toward Beijing.
Relations between Taiwan and China have been tense since 2016, when Tsai Ing-wen, from the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), assumed the presidency and rejected China’s assertion that Taiwan is part of its territory.
During their meeting, Xi emphasized that the connection between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait is bound to grow, saying, “The general trend of compatriots on both sides getting closer and becoming united will not change.” He voiced a desire to enhance dialogue with Taiwanese groups, including the KMT, based on the political foundation of opposing Taiwan’s independence.
The KMT has been supportive of fostering closer ties with China, which has claimed Taiwan as its territory and hinted at potential military action. After the meeting, Cheng reinforced Xi’s viewpoint at a press conference, highlighting the importance for younger generations to comprehend the current challenges. She urged adherence to the 1992 Consensus, which implies there’s “one China,” without clarifying which side represents it.
Earlier, Cheng suggested that the Taiwan Strait should not be a hotspot for conflict and called for a move beyond political disputes. She also mentioned that Xi responded positively to her suggestion of allowing Taiwan greater involvement in international organizations and regional agreements.
In response, a spokesperson from Taiwan’s ruling DPP insisted that China should respect Taiwan’s values of freedom and democracy, urging a peaceful approach to differences rather than intimidation.
Tensions and Defense Spending Concerns
Recently, China has intensified its military activities around Taiwan, conducting frequent air and naval operations. Amid these rising tensions, Taiwanese lawmakers are at odds over a defense budget proposal of NT$1.25 trillion (approximately $39 billion), which has been stalled in a parliament dominated by opposition parties.
Cheng’s trip comes shortly before a planned visit to Beijing by U.S. President Donald Trump for talks with Xi. The U.S. has been pressuring Taiwanese opposition lawmakers to support defense spending, including acquiring U.S. weapons to deter possible Chinese aggression. However, Cheng opposed the government’s defense spending plans, advocating for a more limited budget for weapons.
While KMT leaders often visit China for discussions, Cheng is the first chairperson to make the trip since Hung Hsiu-chu in 2016. Relations have particularly soured since the election of Tsai’s successor, Lai Ching-te, who is viewed by Beijing as a separatist.
Lai recently stated on social media that China’s military threats around Taiwan have jeopardized regional peace and stability. Upon her arrival in Shanghai, Cheng reassured that the situation across the Taiwan Strait does not have to lead to war, contrary to international fears. She also visited Nanjing, paying respects at the mausoleum of Sun Yat-sen, a figure respected in both China and Taiwan.
