China's Xi urges Taiwan opposition leader for cross-strait reunification amid tensions

Chinese President Xi Jinping has sent a congratulatory message to Cheng Li-wun, the newly elected leader of Taiwan's main opposition party, the Kuomintang (KMT), urging efforts to advance reunification under the one-China principle. Xi emphasized the importance of strengthening the common political foundation between the Communist Party of China and the KMT, calling for unity among the majority of people in Taiwan to promote peace, cooperation, and national reunification. Cheng, while expressing gratitude, avoided direct mention of reunification and instead referred to people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait as members of the Chinese nation, emphasizing ethnic ties rather than political unity. The KMT traditionally supports closer ties with Beijing and is China's favored dialogue partner, contrasting with Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), which rejects Beijing's sovereignty claims and advocates for Taiwan's self-determination. Cheng opposes increasing Taiwan's defense spending, a key policy of President Lai Ching-te, and her election occurred amid accusations of Beijing's interference in the KMT leadership race. The messages underline ongoing tensions across the Taiwan Strait, with Beijing seeking reunification efforts and Taiwan maintaining its democratic governance and distinct political identity.