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Xi Meets Taiwan’s KMT Leader, Unveils Package to Restart Flights and Exchanges

The moves signal Beijing’s strategy to court the KMT for influence over Taiwan politics.

Overview

  • Chinese state media detailed a ten-point package on Sunday that includes a full restart of direct flights, new approvals for Taiwanese films and series, and steps to ease travel from Shanghai and Fujian.
  • The measures also promise support for Taiwan small and mid-size companies, simpler entry for food products, and plans to supply water, power and gas to Taiwan-held Kinmen and Matsu near China’s coast.
  • Cheng Li-wun ended a six-day mainland trip that featured a Friday meeting with Xi Jinping in Beijing, where Xi said reunification is inevitable and both sides cited the disputed 1992 Consensus to reject Taiwan independence.
  • Taiwan’s government criticized the visit, with the Mainland Affairs Council warning it could weaken international backing, including arms sales, and noting Cheng’s delegation included no elected officials.
  • Taipei reported Chinese fighter jets flying near the island during the talks, underscoring a carrot-and-stick approach as Beijing seeks long-term influence through party-to-party dialogue and economic incentives after a decade without a KMT leadership visit.