Xi Jinping Emphasizes the Future of China-Taiwan Relations in Chinese Hands
On April 13, 2026, a significant meeting took place in Beijing between Xi Jinping, General Secretary of the Communist Party of China, and Cheng Li-wun, the Chairperson of Taiwan's Kuomintang (KMT). This rare engagement, marking the first time in a decade that a KMT chairperson has led a delegation to mainland China, represents an important moment in the evolving dynamics of cross-strait relations.
During their discussions, Xi emphasized that the future of China-Taiwan relations rests firmly in the hands of the Chinese people. He outlined four proposals aimed at fostering closer ties across the Taiwan Strait, advocating for peaceful development, enhanced cooperation, and subsequently revitalizing the Chinese nation. The phrase 'one family' resonated throughout their dialogue, serving as a reminder that the citizens on both sides of the strait are inherently connected through shared heritage and aspirations for mutual peace and prosperity.
Xi reiterated the paramount importance of acknowledging that both sides belong to 'one China.' He clarified that maintaining this principle is crucial for the safety and security of the common homeland amid growing separatist sentiments and external influences against Taiwan’s independence. Last year, the citizens from both sides collectively voiced their opposition to separatism, underscoring their desire for unity and collaboration.
Building on this momentum, Xi mentioned several initiatives that have already been set in motion to protect common interests, including launching an online platform for reporting acts promoting Taiwanese independence, as well as increasing interaction through trade and cultural exchanges. An annual gathering, the Cross-Strait CEO Summit, has become a vital forum, drawing around 800 participants from both sides to share insights on industry transformations, innovation, and cooperation.
Furthermore, the removal of travel restrictions for Taiwanese individuals seeking to visit mainland China has resulted in more than 5 million trips in 2025, marking the highest number in six years. The steady increase in exchanges between compatriots highlights the yearning for deeper ties rooted in familial connections and collaborative development.
Cheng echoed Xi’s sentiments, advocating for initiatives that foster peaceful interactions and nurture a shared future. She affirmed that the responsibility for progression lies within both the KMT and the Communist Party. Emphasizing the significance of the 1992 Consensus, Cheng and Xi expressed their commitment to upholding its principles and rejecting any notions of 'Taiwan independence'. This consensus lays the crucial foundation that signifies the relationship between the two entities—not as separate states, but as distinct regions of one China, thereby facilitating dialogue and harmonious collaboration.
Xu Xiaoquan, a researcher from the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, noted that Cheng's visit reflects a broader desire among the Taiwanese populace for increased collaboration and openness. He suggested that peace-oriented endeavors toward potential reunification align with social sentiments and historical trends, indicating that genuine dialogue grounded in shared principles is the most effective path forward.
Xi concluded with strong affirmations of his commitment to peaceful development across the Taiwan Strait and reiterated that the principle of 'Taiwan independence' is a core instigator undermining stability in the region. He made it clear that the Communist Party is firmly dedicated to promoting measures that favor peaceful progression in cross-strait relations and will continue to work towards that goal with unwavering determination.
This pivotal moment hints at a gradual shift in Taiwan's engagement with mainland China, potentially steering towards enhanced cooperation, understanding, and shared growth, reflecting the intrinsic bonds that unify the people across the Taiwan Strait.
During their discussions, Xi emphasized that the future of China-Taiwan relations rests firmly in the hands of the Chinese people. He outlined four proposals aimed at fostering closer ties across the Taiwan Strait, advocating for peaceful development, enhanced cooperation, and subsequently revitalizing the Chinese nation. The phrase 'one family' resonated throughout their dialogue, serving as a reminder that the citizens on both sides of the strait are inherently connected through shared heritage and aspirations for mutual peace and prosperity.
Xi reiterated the paramount importance of acknowledging that both sides belong to 'one China.' He clarified that maintaining this principle is crucial for the safety and security of the common homeland amid growing separatist sentiments and external influences against Taiwan’s independence. Last year, the citizens from both sides collectively voiced their opposition to separatism, underscoring their desire for unity and collaboration.
Building on this momentum, Xi mentioned several initiatives that have already been set in motion to protect common interests, including launching an online platform for reporting acts promoting Taiwanese independence, as well as increasing interaction through trade and cultural exchanges. An annual gathering, the Cross-Strait CEO Summit, has become a vital forum, drawing around 800 participants from both sides to share insights on industry transformations, innovation, and cooperation.
Furthermore, the removal of travel restrictions for Taiwanese individuals seeking to visit mainland China has resulted in more than 5 million trips in 2025, marking the highest number in six years. The steady increase in exchanges between compatriots highlights the yearning for deeper ties rooted in familial connections and collaborative development.
Cheng echoed Xi’s sentiments, advocating for initiatives that foster peaceful interactions and nurture a shared future. She affirmed that the responsibility for progression lies within both the KMT and the Communist Party. Emphasizing the significance of the 1992 Consensus, Cheng and Xi expressed their commitment to upholding its principles and rejecting any notions of 'Taiwan independence'. This consensus lays the crucial foundation that signifies the relationship between the two entities—not as separate states, but as distinct regions of one China, thereby facilitating dialogue and harmonious collaboration.
Xu Xiaoquan, a researcher from the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, noted that Cheng's visit reflects a broader desire among the Taiwanese populace for increased collaboration and openness. He suggested that peace-oriented endeavors toward potential reunification align with social sentiments and historical trends, indicating that genuine dialogue grounded in shared principles is the most effective path forward.
Xi concluded with strong affirmations of his commitment to peaceful development across the Taiwan Strait and reiterated that the principle of 'Taiwan independence' is a core instigator undermining stability in the region. He made it clear that the Communist Party is firmly dedicated to promoting measures that favor peaceful progression in cross-strait relations and will continue to work towards that goal with unwavering determination.
This pivotal moment hints at a gradual shift in Taiwan's engagement with mainland China, potentially steering towards enhanced cooperation, understanding, and shared growth, reflecting the intrinsic bonds that unify the people across the Taiwan Strait.
Topics Policy & Public Interest）
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