Summary
Taiwan's opposition leader Cheng Li-wun is visiting China to promote peace. This visit occurs as tensions are high between China and Taiwan over military activities and arms deals involving the United States. It is also happening ahead of a planned meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Donald Trump.
Key Facts
- Cheng Li-wun is the leader of Taiwan's opposition party, the Kuomintang (KMT).
- Her visit to China is the first by a Taiwanese opposition leader in ten years.
- The visit aims to promote peace amidst Chinese pressure for Taiwan to come under its control.
- Taiwan's parliament is delaying a $40 billion defense budget for U.S. arms purchases.
- China frequently sends military forces near Taiwan and opposes U.S.-Taiwan defense ties.
- The U.S. State Department has called on China to reduce military pressure on Taiwan.
- President Xi Jinping and President Donald Trump are scheduled to meet in May to discuss various issues, including arms sales to Taiwan.
- The arms deal announced by the Trump administration includes missiles, howitzers, and drones totaling over $11 billion.
