KMT Chairwoman's Upcoming Beijing Visit Highlights Cross-Strait Ties Amidst Defense Debates

Cheng Li-wun, the chairwoman of Taiwan's opposition party Kuomintang (KMT), plans to visit China at the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping. Her visit aims to promote peaceful cross-strait relations as Taiwan's government seeks increased defense funding. KMT supports defense enhancements but demands more budget details.

Cheng Li-wun, the new chairwoman of Taiwan's Kuomintang (KMT), has accepted an invitation from Chinese President Xi Jinping for an official visit to China this April. This comes shortly before U.S. President Trump's visit to Beijing.

Cheng aims to strengthen cross-strait relations, emphasizing peaceful development. Her predecessor, Eric Chu, did not visit China during his term, but Cheng signals a closer approach to Beijing. The trip coincides with Taiwan's debate over defense budget enhancements, which the KMT supports, albeit with clarity on spending.

Cheng's itinerary includes stops in Beijing, Shanghai, and Jiangsu. This diplomatic engagement occurs as international tensions rise, with Trump's postponed visit due to Middle Eastern conflicts. Despite historical divides, Xi's invitation signifies a potential thaw in cross-strait politics.

(With inputs from agencies.)