KMT chief hails Trump's anti-independence remarks as 'positive step' for peace
Quick Look
- KMT chairwoman Cheng Li-wun called Donald Trump's opposition to Taiwan's independence a "positive first step" towards reducing tensions.
- She stated that the KMT's stance aligns with the "one China" principle, aiming to maintain the status quo and minimize war likelihood.
AI-generated summary
Why It Matters
Taiwan's main opposition party, the Kuomintang (KMT), has historically advocated for closer ties with mainland China under the "one China" principle and opposes formal independence. This stance contrasts with the current ruling party's approach. Donald Trump's recent comments indicate a shift or reinforcement of US policy regarding Taiwan's status.
Taiwan’s main opposition leader hailed US President Donald Trump’s recent comments opposing the island’s independence as a “relatively positive first step” towards reducing tensions.
Cheng Li-wun, chairwoman of the Kuomintang (KMT), told the South China Morning Post on Sunday in an exclusive interview: “The ‘one China’ principle and opposition to Taiwan independence have always been the Kuomintang’s stance.
“On this political basis, the status quo across the Taiwan Strait can be maintained, and the likelihood of war can be minimised.”
Cheng, who is currently visiting the United States, said Washington’s stance was “crucial” in her aspiration to transform the “first island chain” into a “chain of peace and prosperity”.
Cheng’s trip to the US came just over two weeks after Chinese President Xi Jinping met Trump in Beijing and warned his American counterpart that any mishandling of the Taiwan issue could lead to a “very dangerous situation”.
Trump said after the Beijing summit that he was not looking to have “someone go independent”, adding: “You know, we’re supposed to travel 9,500 miles [15,300 km] to fight a war. I’m not looking for that.”
Open Questions
- Will Trump's stance be maintained by future US administrations?
- How will Beijing react to further statements from the KMT or US on this issue?
- What specific policies will the KMT implement if they return to power to ensure peace?
- What is the KMT's detailed plan for transforming the 'first island chain' into a 'chain of peace and prosperity'?
