Xi-Chu meeting strengthens the 1992 Consensus
- By Zhang Hua
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E-mail China.org.cn, May 6, 2015
A critical point for cross-Strait relations
Cross-Strait relations are now at a critical point with many uncertain factors. An "anti-free-trade movement" that broke out in Taiwan in March 2013 greatly disrupted negotiations between the two sides. Taiwan's "nine-in-one" local elections at the end of that year encouraged the DPP to further interfere with the development of cross-Strait relations.
The question of whether Taiwan will gain membership in the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank this year will also have some impact on relations. Both sides need to have frank exchanges and dialogues on such issues of common concern.
Debate about cross-Strait relations will be unavoidable during the 2016 Taiwan election, since the topic is an important reference point for voters. Although the KMT faces a good deal of criticism, it no doubt has an advantage on this issue.
Eric Chu has repeatedly said he will not participate in the 2016 election though, his mainland visit offers a chance to test the political waters and maintain the peaceful development of cross-Strait relations.
Candidate Tsai Ing-wen has once again put forward the "theory of maintaining the status quo" on behalf of the DPP. Although it may temporarily confuse the people of Taiwan and the international community, Tsai's stance isn't accepted by the Chinese mainland. The Xi-Chu meeting was held successfully and once again stressed the importance of the 1992 Consensus, putting extra pressure on Tsai.
Zhang Hua is a researcher with the Institute of Taiwan Studies under the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences.
This article was translated by Li Jingrong. Its original unabridged version was published in Chinese.
Opinion articles reflect the views of their authors, not necessarily those of China.org.cn.
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