Chinese leader Xi Jinping is scheduled to hold a significant meeting with former Taiwan President Ma Ying-jeou on Wednesday, marking a rare occasion of dialogue between the two sides. Ma, who governed Taiwan from 2008 to 2016 and is currently on an 11-day tour in China, will meet Xi in Beijing, as confirmed by his party Kuomintang (KMT).
This meeting holds historical significance as it is the first time a former president of Taiwan has been hosted by China's top leader in Beijing since 1949 when Chiang Kai-shek's Nationalists relocated to Taipei. The meeting is seen as an attempt to lay a foundation for future cross-strait exchanges and maintain the tone set during their previous talks in Singapore nearly nine years ago.
The political landscape across the Taiwan Strait has been evolving, with Beijing's assertive stance driving a wedge between the two sides. Recent developments, including Taiwan's re-election of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and Beijing's increased pressure tactics, have further strained relations.
Ma's meeting with Xi coincides with diplomatic activities in Washington, where concerns over China's behavior, particularly towards Taiwan, are at the forefront. The meeting is viewed as Beijing's effort to influence Taiwan's incoming administration towards a more conciliatory approach.
Despite the symbolic nature of the meeting, experts believe it is unlikely to lead to substantial changes in cross-strait relations. The meeting is perceived as an attempt to shape the narrative between the two parties while fundamental differences persist.
For Ma, the meeting holds personal significance as he aims to solidify his legacy in cross-strait relations, positioning himself as a key figure in fostering dialogue between Taiwan and China.
