Taiwan opposition leader visits China amid tensions between two countries

WorldPolitics
7 Apr 2026 • 9:29 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • Cheng Li-wun, leader of Taiwan's main opposition Kuomintang (KMT) party, visited Beijing for a 'peace mission' at the invitation of Xi Jinping, marking the first such trip in a decade.
  • The visit takes place amid increased military tensions between Taiwan and mainland China, with Beijing considering the self-governed island its own territory and not ruling out reunification by force.
  • Cheng defended her trip as a necessary step to prevent Taiwan from being 'ravaged by war', despite acknowledging some public unease about the visit.
  • Taiwanese lawmakers and critics expressed concerns that the visit plays into China's 'One China' framework and propaganda, potentially undermining Taiwan's sovereignty.
  • Regional experts suggest the trip primarily serves China's propaganda and diplomatic signalling purposes, rather than fundamentally altering Beijing's strategy for reunification.

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