KMT's Hsia Meets w/Politburo Standing Committee Member On Beijing Visit

MNI (London)-Chinese state media confirms a meeting in Beijing between Wang Huning, a member of the seven-member Politburo Standing Committee, and Andrew Hsia, vice-chair of Taiwan's main opposition Kuomintang (KMT). Media reports Huning stating that Beijing "Resolutely opposes Taiwan independence and interference by external forces."

• Hsia's trip to Beijing, the second in a year, also included a meeting with Song Tao, director of the Taiwan Affairs Office.
• Wen-Ti Sung, an academic at the Australian National University, on the implications of the visit, select comments below: "KMT faces the 'Dove's Dilemma': playing the role of peacemaker without being seen as kowtowing to an adversary. Beijing tries to help, though within limits. [...] By lowering cross-strait tension & creating more positive atmosphere, Beijing's announcements made Taiwan's opposition party's 'negotiating for peace' with Beijing looked more politically palatable in Taiwan. [...] Even at the actual meeting with KMT, Beijing continues to try tone down its rhetoric somewhat to make life easier for KMT. [...] 1. Calmer Chinese rhetoric towards Taiwan throughout 2023 is likely. 2023 is Taiwan's presidential campaign year, and Beijing would rather see the Beijing-friendlier KMT remain electorally viable...."