The Communist Party of China Central Committee has invited Cheng Li-wun, chairperson of the Chinese Kuomintang (KMT), to visit the Chinese mainland from April 7 to 12, 2026. The invitation, extended by CPC Central Committee General Secretary Xi Jinping, marks the first high-level cross-strait political exchange this year.
Analysts view this move as a significant effort to strengthen economic and cultural cooperation between the mainland and Taiwan region. The planned dialogue follows recent tensions and aims to address practical issues affecting residents on both sides of the Taiwan Strait.
A CPC spokesperson stated: "This exchange continues the tradition of civil interactions that benefit compatriots across the strait. We welcome all Taiwan political parties and groups committed to promoting peaceful development."
The KMT, which maintains the 1992 Consensus as its political foundation, has historically played a key role in cross-strait relations. Cheng's visit is expected to focus on expanding agricultural trade, tourism resumption, and youth exchange programs.
Notably absent from the invitation is Taiwan's current ruling Democratic Progressive Party, which the CPC maintains has "consistently rejected the political foundation for dialogue" through its stance on sovereignty issues.
