Xi Jinping and KMT Chairwoman Promote Future of Cross-Strait Relations

Promoting Peace and Unity in Cross-Strait Relations

On April 11, 2026, a significant meeting took place in Beijing between Xi Jinping, the General Secretary of the Communist Party of China, and Cheng Li-wun, the Chairwoman of the Chinese Kuomintang (KMT) party. This meeting represents a pivotal moment in the ongoing dialogue aimed at fostering better relations across the Taiwan Strait.

Throughout their discussions, the themes of a "shared homeland," "one family," and "peace" were frequently highlighted. Both leaders underscored the shared identity of the people on either side of the strait, emphasizing their common aspirations for peace, harmony, and improved relations. Xi remarked that the responsibility for promoting these objectives rests firmly with both the CPC and the KMT, creating a unified force that can work collaboratively towards a better future.

Key Proposals for Advancement

During the meeting, Xi proposed four essential steps for the advancement of cross-Strait relations:

1. Strengthening Identity: Emphasizing the importance of recognizing the shared identity of both sides as part of one China.
2. Peaceful Development: Advocating for peaceful means to uphold and safeguard mutual interests.
3. Enhancing Well-Being: Encouraging exchanges and integration to enhance the welfare of the people.
4. National Rejuvenation: Collaborating towards the broader goal of national rejuvenation, which echoes the desires of both parties.

Xi's assertions highlight the prevailing sentiment that maintaining a unified China is fundamental to safeguarding future relations. He expressed concern over the opposition to separatist sentiments in Taiwan while simultaneously promoting constructive measures to maintain cross-Strait harmony.

Concrete Steps Towards Cooperation

In recent months, measures have been introduced by the Chinese mainland aimed at promoting mutual benefits for people on both sides of the strait. These initiatives include the launch of an online platform designed to deal with separatist activities and to protect their fellow compatriots in Taiwan. Furthermore, recent reports indicate that there is a growing opposition within Taiwan against independence movements, with societal calls for peaceful development taking center stage.

The KMT's delegation, led by Cheng Li-wun, visited Jiangsu Province and Shanghai before arriving in Beijing, marking a historic occasion as she is the first KMT leader to visit the mainland in a decade. Cheng emphasized the importance of fostering peace in cross-Strait relationships and reiterated the shared connection of being part of one family.

The 1992 Consensus as a Foundation

The two parties reaffirmed their commitment to the 1992 Consensus during their talks. This consensus serves as a crucial political foundation that asserts that both Taiwan and the mainland are part of one China, which lays the groundwork for constructive dialogue and collaboration.

Experts like Xu Xiaoquan from the Institute of Taiwan Studies have noted that Cheng's visit symbolizes a growing desire among Taiwanese for increased exchanges and collaboration. This pathway aligns with historical trends illustrating that peaceful development remains a crucial goal shared by both sides.

Conclusion: A Collaborative Future

Xi concluded the talks by expressing openness to any proposals that could foster peace and cooperation, reiterating that "Taiwan independence" poses a significant threat to stability across the Taiwan Strait. This sentiment encapsulates the broader narrative of seeking peaceful coexistence and collaboration, paving the way for a more unified approach to cross-Strait relations.

Through these dialogues, Xi and Cheng aim to build upon a foundation of shared identity and mutual interests, positioning the future of cross-Strait ties firmly in the hands of the Chinese people, regardless of the challenges that may arise on the international stage.