Taiwan Opposition Leaders Meeting With Xi Sparks Backlash

Taiwan opposition party leader Cheng Li-wun (C) of the Kuomintang (KMT) speaks at a press conference in Beijing, China, ahead of a meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping on April 10, 2026, while on a six-day visit. Kevin Frayer/Getty ImagesA high-profile meeting between Taiwan opposition leader Cheng Li-wen and Chinese Communist Party leader Xi Jinping has drawn sharp criticism in Taiwan, and analysts warn that Beijing is reframing the idea of “peace” to advance its political agenda.The two met on April 10 at Beijing’s Great Hall of the People, where they delivered brief public remarks before holding a closed-door discussion that lasted about an hour. The encounter, billed by supporters as a step toward easing cross-strait tensions, has deepened political divisions and fueled skepticism about Beijing’s intentions.