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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Arpan Rai

Taiwan opposition leader visits China amid tensions between two countries

  • Cheng Li-wun, leader of Taiwan's main opposition Kuomintang (KMT) party, visited Beijing for a 'peace mission' at the invitation of Xi Jinping, marking the first such trip in a decade.
  • The visit takes place amid increased military tensions between Taiwan and mainland China, with Beijing considering the self-governed island its own territory and not ruling out reunification by force.
  • Cheng defended her trip as a necessary step to prevent Taiwan from being 'ravaged by war', despite acknowledging some public unease about the visit.
  • Taiwanese lawmakers and critics expressed concerns that the visit plays into China's 'One China' framework and propaganda, potentially undermining Taiwan's sovereignty.
  • Regional experts suggest the trip primarily serves China's propaganda and diplomatic signalling purposes, rather than fundamentally altering Beijing's strategy for reunification.

IN FULL

Taiwan opposition leader’s China visit will only serve Xi propaganda, experts warn

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