In a meeting with Taiwan’s opposition leader, President Xi Jinping of China emphasized that Taiwan’s independence would not be tolerated as it disrupts peace in the Taiwan Strait. Cheng Li-wun, the chairwoman of Taiwan’s Kuomintang party, is visiting China to ease tensions amid increased military pressure from Beijing on the island it claims.
President Xi stressed the importance of unity among Chinese people on both sides of the strait for peace, development, and cooperation. He reiterated that both sides belong to “one China” and highlighted that Taiwan’s independence undermines peace in the region, a stance China will not condone.
Xi addressed the aspiration for reunification between China and Taiwan, expressing the need for political trust and cooperation between the Kuomintang and the Communist Party. Meanwhile, China refuses to engage with Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te, labeling him as a separatist.
Cheng emphasized the desire for mutual relations across the strait, advocating for reciprocal interactions and exchanges. She expressed hope for a future where Taiwan Strait is not a conflict hotspot and urged for institutionalized dialogue mechanisms between both sides.
Cheng later shared that Xi acknowledged Taiwan’s social system and lifestyle choices but hoped for Taiwan to recognize China’s development achievements. The United States, a key supporter and arms supplier to Taiwan, has supported Taiwan’s defense spending plans, despite objections from Beijing.