The image shows Cheng Li-wun and Xi Jinping side by side, as it relates to Xi hosting Taiwan’s opposition leader in Beijing and highlighting cross-strait talks.
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Xi Meets Taiwan Opposition Leader in Beijing Talks

China’s President Xi Jinping met Taiwan’s main opposition leader in Beijing on Friday. It has marked a rare high-level exchange that aimed at easing tensions across the Taiwan Strait. Both sides had emphasized on stability and peace, even as political divisions remain deeply entrenched.

The image shows Cheng Li-wun on the left and Xi Jinping on the right, placed side by side, while a bold headline highlights their meeting in Beijing.

Cheng Li-wun, who is a leader of Taiwan’s Kuomintang (KMT), became the first sitting party chief in a decade to visit mainland China. The meeting was took place at the Great Hall of the People, which comes amid strained relations between Beijing and Taipei.

China-Taiwan Talks Spark Hope but Face Criticism

Xi highlighted the importance of renewed engagement and stated that both parties must work “to safeguard the peace and stability of our shared homeland”. We should also promote long-term cooperation. He further stressed that China remains open to dialogue with groups that oppose Taiwan independence, including the KMT.

Meanwhile, Cheng echoed similar sentiments and said that “the rejuvenation of the Chinese people is a shared aspiration” on both sides of the strait. She added that strengthening ties could contribute positively to global peace and progress.

However, the visit has drawn criticism within Taiwan. The ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) accused Cheng of aligning too closely with Beijing. Party officials argued that her approach risks undermining Taiwan’s autonomy, especially at a time when public opinion largely supports maintaining the current political status.

Notably, Beijing cut off formal communication with Taiwan in 2016 after former President Tsai Ing-wen declined to endorse the “One China” principle. Since then, tensions have persisted, with limited official engagement.

China-Taiwan Tensions Persist Despite Calls for Stability

At the same time, China continues to assert its claim over Taiwan. It describes the Taiwan as part of its territory and refuses to rule out the use of force. Beijing has also rejected dialogue with the current Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te, who labeled him a “separatist”.

In contrast, Lai has maintained that his administration seeks to preserve the status quo, avoiding both formal independence and unification. Nevertheless, Chinese officials have intensified their rhetoric and have frequently criticized his leadership.

Although the KMT has historically supported closer ties with China. Analysts note that Cheng’s proactive engagement signals a shift in tone. While some are viewing this as a diplomatic opening, others remain cautious about its long-term implications.

Ultimately, most people in Taiwan identify as part of a sovereign nation. Yet, many continue to favor stability, preferring neither unification with China nor a formal declaration of independence.

Web Resources on Xi Jinping and Cheng Li-wun Meeting

1. Reuters.com: China will not tolerate independence for Taiwan, Xi tells island’s opposition leader
2. APNews.com: Taiwan’s opposition leader meets China’s Xi Jinping as both sides call for peace
3. TheGuardian.com: Xi tells Taiwan opposition leader people on both sides of strait are Chinese in rare meeting
4. JapanTimes.co.jp: Xi tells Taiwan opposition leader he has ‘full confidence’ in two sides uniting

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