Xi Jinping Conveys Peace Initiative to Taiwan’s Opposition Before Trump’s Visit

During a high-profile meeting with Cheng Li-wun, the head of Taiwan’s main opposition Kuomintang (KMT) party, China’s leader Xi Jinping underscored the concept of “peaceful development” to align with the island’s political leaders. Analysts believe this outreach may be designed to influence U.S. President Donald Trump’s position on Taiwan, potentially softening Washington’s assertive stance toward the self-governed territory.

Leadership Exchange and Shared Goals

Xi opened the discussion by highlighting the fragility of global stability, stating,

“The world today is far from peaceful, making peace more precious.”

He emphasized the importance of unity between the two parties to preserve the peace of their shared region and advance cross-strait relations. Cheng Li-wun echoed this sentiment, advocating for institutional frameworks to avert conflict and position the Taiwan Strait as a symbol of peaceful resolution.

Strategic Messaging and Historical Context

Both leaders reaffirmed their stance against Taiwan independence, though unification was not explicitly mentioned. Michael Cunningham, a Stimson Center expert, noted that Xi’s remarks were standard fare, suggesting no immediate threat to Taiwan’s autonomy or urgency for unification. “It’s a long-term vision,” Cunningham explained. “Beijing believes Taiwan will eventually align with its governance, with no pressing need to accelerate the process.”

The KMT, which has historically favored closer ties with mainland China, gained renewed influence after the 2024 elections. With a legislative majority in the island’s Legislative Yuan, the party now holds significant power to shape policy and limit the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) government’s initiatives. Cheng’s visit marks a rare high-level interaction since 2016, when the DPP’s victory led to the suspension of cross-strait dialogues.

U.S.-China Dynamics and Public Sentiment

Analysts anticipate Xi using Cheng’s visit to pressure Trump during an upcoming U.S.-China summit. William Yang of the International Crisis Group suggested the Chinese leader might request a reduction or halt in U.S. arms shipments to Taiwan. If unsuccessful, Xi could potentially skip a planned visit to Mar-a-Lago later this year, according to Yang.

Meanwhile, President Lai Ching-te of Taiwan warned against illusions of peace in a speech commemorating the Taiwan Relations Act. “Compromising with authoritarians sacrifices sovereignty and democracy,” Lai stated. “This won’t secure freedom, let alone peace.” In Taipei, the KMT’s legislative majority has stalled a proposed NT$1.25 trillion supplementary defense budget, which includes potential U.S. military purchases.

Geopolitical Leverage and Domestic Impact

Ja Ian Chong, a political scientist at the National University of Singapore, argued that Xi’s focus on peace could serve as a tool to negotiate with Washington. “If Taiwan reduces its push for U.S. arms, Xi might persuade Trump to pause shipments,” Chong noted. The meeting also aims to bolster pro-Beijing factions within the KMT ahead of November’s legislative elections, potentially weakening pro-American sentiment.

With Trump’s ongoing involvement in the Middle East fueling fears of global conflict, the talks may resonate with Taiwanese voters. Public confidence in U.S. support is waning, and the KMT’s engagement with Beijing could sway opinion in favor of a more conciliatory approach to cross-strait relations.