Taiwan Opposition Leader Cheng Li-wun Calls for Reconciliation After Meeting Xi Jinping

Cheng Li-wun, chairperson of Taiwan's Kuomintang (KMT), met with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing on April 10, 2026, marking the highest-level cross-strait engagement since 2015. Both leaders expressed opposition to Taiwan independence and foreign interference, emphasizing shared cultural heritage and historical ties. Cheng advocated for transcending political hostility, suggesting that the Taiwan Strait should symbolize peace rather than conflict. Notably, she hinted at slowing Taiwan's military buildup and reducing reliance on US arms, a stance interpreted by analysts as shifting away from defense-oriented deterrence. Xi reiterated the concept of common Chinese roots and the goal of national rejuvenation. The meeting highlights the KMT's continued push for closer engagement with Beijing, contrasting with the current Taiwanese government's policies. This event underscores ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly regarding US involvement in the region, and signals potential shifts in Taipei's strategic approach under opposition leadership.