Hey folks! Earlier this month, on Nov 1, Cheng Li-wun took the reins as chairperson of the Chinese Kuomintang (KMT). In an exclusive chat with Nikkei Asia, she dropped some major insights on how to dial down tensions in the Taiwan Strait. 🤝
Instead of ramping up defense budgets (like the 3% of GDP next year and 5% by 2030 plan from the leader of the Taiwan region, Lai Ching-te), Cheng argues that sticking to the 1992 Consensus is the real game-changer. “This increase is too high and too fast,” she says, adding that hefty military spending alone won’t guarantee security. 🎯
So, what’s the 1992 Consensus? It’s the agreement that both sides acknowledge there’s only one China (in principle), laying the foundation for cross-strait ties. Cheng believes that embracing this framework—rather than fueling an arms race—can actually cool things off. 🕊️
She also wants to bring back the cross-Strait Economic, Trade and Culture Forum, a dialogue platform that Ma Ying-jeou used to lower the heat during his eight-year term. Cheng’s message? “Dialogue can indeed replace confrontation” and help both sides sort out differences peacefully. 🌐
Whether you’re scrolling through your feed in Bangkok, studying in Dhaka, or hustling in Manila, this debate over defense spending vs. dialogue has big ripple effects—economically, politically, and for everyday life across the region. Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds! 🚀
Reference(s):
KMT Chairperson Cheng Li-wun calls for adherence to 1992 Consensus
cgtn.com
