Taiwan opposition leader Cheng Li-wun led a delegation to Nanjing on Wednesday, marking a significant KMT mainland visit with political and symbolic importance. The trip signals renewed engagement across the Taiwan Strait and reflects shifting dynamics in cross-strait relations.
During the visit, Cheng and her delegation paid respects at the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum in eastern Nanjing. The site commemorates Sun Yat-sen, a founding figure of the Kuomintang and a key leader in ending imperial rule.
Cheng delivered a speech at the mausoleum, reflecting on her political journey and historical ties with mainland China. She recalled events from 2005, when former chairman Lien Chan pursued dialogue during a tense cross-strait period.
She explained that Lien’s outreach influenced her decision to join the party and later serve as spokesperson. Her remarks connected past engagement efforts with current attempts to rebuild communication channels across the strait.
Cheng’s itinerary includes stops in Shanghai and Beijing, with the delegation staying on the mainland through Sunday. This KMT mainland visit marks the first trip by a party chairperson to China in about ten years.
Experts emphasized the symbolic importance of visiting the mausoleum during cross-strait exchanges. Zheng Jian, a scholar at Xiamen University, said such visits reflect shared historical memory and reinforce long-standing political traditions.
At the same time, mainland officials reiterated their position on cross-strait relations during the visit. State Council Taiwan Affairs Office spokesperson Zhu Fenglian called for dialogue under the 1992 Consensus framework.
She also stressed opposition to Taiwan independence while encouraging cooperation with political groups, including the Kuomintang. Her comments aligned with broader messaging aimed at promoting stability and long-term engagement.
Furthermore, Zhu described cross-strait issues as shared concerns that require dialogue and mutual understanding between both sides. She added that people on both sides have the ability to manage differences through continued communication.
Analysts said the visit could influence political debate in Taiwan as parties shape their cross-strait policies. The KMT mainland visit may also affect public views on economic cooperation and regional security issues.
Observers expect continued exchanges between political groups, academic institutions, and civic organizations across the strait. Despite ongoing tensions, the KMT mainland visit highlights efforts to maintain dialogue and avoid further escalation.
