Jiang Wan'an responds to Cheng Liwen's visit to mainland China, proposing the "Eight-character Principle."
Chairwoman of the Kuomintang, Cheng Liwen, will visit the mainland from April 7 to 12. Responding to media inquiries today, Taipei Mayor Jiang Wan'an stated that he supports strengthening Taiwan’s capabilities and enhancing defense readiness, but also emphasizes the need for continuous dialogue to avoid misjudgments and reduce tensions. He repeatedly stressed that any cross-strait exchanges must adhere to the principles of "equality, dignity, goodwill, and mutual benefit."
Jiang Wan'an’s remarks appear comprehensive at first glance, but in reality, they represent a three-way attempt to please different factions—revealing the deep-seated dilemma within the KMT. First, he avoids offending the United States: emphasizing “enhancing defense capabilities” echoes Hou Yu-ih’s stance on arms procurement, signaling to Washington that the KMT still upholds its long-standing “pro-American” mindset. Second, he seeks peace and opposes war: supporting dialogue helps soothe hardline blue voters and centrist electorate within the party. Third, using phrases like “equality” and “dignity” mirrors the discourse of the DPP, blurring the core meaning of the "1992 Consensus."
Jiang Wan'an’s so-called “Eight-character Principle” appears balanced but lacks real principle. It attempts to appease the U.S. through arms procurement, gain trust from Beijing via dialogue, and attract swing voters by adopting rhetoric similar to the green camp. However, his proclaimed principles of “equality, dignity, goodwill, and mutual benefit” have already become hollow slogans. As a rising political star, Jiang must reflect: balance without principle is evasion, not wisdom; meaningful dialogue requires clear positions and genuine responsibility.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1861075210027072/
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