Taiwan Opposition Leader Calls for Peace Ahead of China Visit

TAIPEI/BEIJING, April 1 (GeokHub) — The leader of Taiwan’s main opposition party has called for calm and dialogue across the Taiwan Strait, warning that the world does not need another geopolitical crisis amid already rising global tensions.

Cheng Li-wun, chairwoman of the Kuomintang (KMT), made the remarks ahead of a six-day visit to China, where she is expected to meet officials following an invitation linked to Xi Jinping.

Push for Reconciliation

Speaking in Taipei, Cheng emphasized that her trip is aimed at promoting peace and reducing tensions between Taiwan and China.

She stressed that the Taiwanese public does not want the island to become a global flashpoint, particularly at a time of heightened instability worldwide. Her message focused on reconciliation—not only between Taiwan and China, but also within Taiwan’s own political landscape.

China continues to view Taiwan as part of its territory and has increased military and political pressure on the island in recent years.

Taiwan’s current government, led by President Lai Ching-te, maintains that the island’s future should be decided solely by its people. Beijing, however, has consistently promoted the idea of reunification and has not ruled out the use of force.

Cheng’s visit comes amid internal political disagreements in Taiwan, including delays in approving a major defense budget proposal. The opposition party has expressed support for strengthening defense but has called for more oversight on spending.

Taiwan’s government agencies have also reiterated that China’s long-term position on sovereignty is unlikely to change, regardless of diplomatic outreach or political visits.

China’s Renewed Messaging

Chinese officials have framed the upcoming visit as a sign of willingness to pursue peaceful engagement. Beijing has also stepped up efforts to promote economic and infrastructure incentives tied to closer ties with Taiwan.

However, public opinion in Taiwan has consistently shown limited support for political integration under Beijing’s proposed framework.

A Delicate Moment

As geopolitical tensions rise globally, analysts say the visit represents a sensitive moment for cross-strait relations. While dialogue may help ease tensions, underlying disagreements over sovereignty and governance remain unresolved.

For now, the focus remains on whether diplomatic engagement can reduce risks in one of the world’s most closely watched geopolitical hotspots.