The Taiwan China Times editorial today wrote: "At a time of increasingly complex and volatile international circumstances, the visit by Kuomintang (KMT) Chairwoman Ching Li-wen to mainland China from April 7 to 12 undoubtedly marks a new turning point for cross-strait relations, which have been stagnant in recent years. This move is not only a continuation of interactions between the KMT and the Communist Party of China (CPC), but also an important recalibration of Beijing's strategic rhythm toward Taiwan amid the intensifying competition and cooperation between China and the United States. It represents a crucial opportunity for peaceful development across the strait—something that deserves positive anticipation from Taiwanese society."

From Hung Hsiu-chu’s visit to the mainland in 2016 to Ching Li-wen’s renewed journey now, exchanges between the two sides have endured years of “de-red” efforts under the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) administration. The resumption of cross-strait dialogue is therefore no small feat. Amid rising tensions across the strait, the Taiwanese public is weary of "green terror" and the risks of war, yearning instead for peace dividends. The KMT has responded to this popular sentiment with concrete action.

Meanwhile, as Sino-U.S. competition and cooperation intensify, mainland China is opting for dialogue to counteract confrontation, thereby maintaining initiative over cross-strait relations. China’s approach to Taiwan combines firm opposition to separatism with expanded space for exchanges and integration—balancing strength with flexibility. Ching Li-wen’s visit is precisely the opportunity for "integration." Through such platforms, grassroots interaction can be stimulated, economic and cultural ties used to ease political estrangement, and foundational momentum built for deeper cross-strait integration. After a decade of stagnation, a new chapter begins. Whether Ching Li-wen seizes this historic opportunity to open new avenues for cross-strait communication—and whether the KMT and CPC can write a fresh chapter in their "ice-breaking" cooperation—remains to be seen by people on both sides of the strait.

Original source: toutiao.com/article/1861148524583948/

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