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Xi and Taiwan opposition leader hold rare talks in Beijing
Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Kuomintang (KMT) leader Cheng Li-wun on Friday, marking the first visit by a sitting KMT chairperson to China in ten years. Both sides emphasized their commitment to cross-strait stability and peace during the discussions.
Background: Strained relations since 2016
High-level communications between Beijing and Taipei were severed in 2016 after Tsai Ing-wen of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) assumed Taiwan's presidency. China cited Tsai's refusal to endorse the "one China" principle as the reason for the breakdown. The DPP has criticized Cheng's trip, accusing her of bowing to Beijing's demands.
China asserts sovereignty over Taiwan and has not ruled out the use of force to achieve unification.
Xi's remarks: Peace contingent on opposing independence
Speaking at the Great Hall of the People, Xi stated that the meeting aimed to "safeguard peace and stability in our shared homeland" and foster "peaceful development" across the Taiwan Strait. He reiterated China's willingness to engage in dialogue with all parties, including the KMT, but only if they oppose Taiwan's independence.
Xi also stressed that "people on both sides of the Strait are Chinese" and share a desire for peace.
Cheng's response: Rejuvenation and the 1992 Consensus
Cheng echoed Xi's sentiments, describing the "rejuvenation of the Chinese people" as a "shared aspiration" for both sides. She framed the meeting as a contribution to "world peace and human progress."
In a post-meeting press conference, Cheng emphasized that opposing Taiwan's independence and upholding the 1992 Consensus-a tacit agreement between the KMT and China's Communist Party on "one China" with differing interpretations-was essential to "avoid war, prevent tragedy, and create peace." The DPP has consistently rejected the 1992 Consensus, arguing it undermines Taiwan's sovereignty.
Analysts weigh in on Cheng's approach
While the KMT has historically maintained cordial relations with Beijing, analysts note that Cheng's proactive visit contrasts with her predecessors' more cautious stance. Her trip comes amid heightened tensions, with Beijing refusing formal dialogue with Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te, whom it has labeled a "separatist."
Lai has repeatedly pledged to maintain the status quo in cross-strait relations, but Chinese state media has accused him of being a "troublemaker" and "warmonger."
Public sentiment in Taiwan
Most Taiwanese identify as a sovereign nation, though many prefer maintaining the current status quo-neither pursuing unification with China nor declaring formal independence. The meeting between Xi and Cheng underscores the delicate balance Taiwan seeks to strike between autonomy and stability.
