ASIATODAY.ID, BEIJING – China has unveiled a fresh economic outreach to Taiwan, offering a package of incentives that Beijing frames as a pathway to closer ties.
However, authorities in Taipei have responded with clear skepticism, warning of potential political risks behind the proposals.
The move follows a recent visit by senior figures from Taiwan’s main opposition party, the Kuomintang (KMT), to Beijing—highlighting intensifying political dynamics across the Taiwan Strait.
Taiwan has operated as a self-governing entity since 1949, after nationalist forces retreated to the island following the Chinese Civil War. Beijing, however, continues to regard Taiwan as an inseparable part of its territory under the “One China” policy, a position recognized by most United Nations member states.
China’s Taiwan Affairs Office announced a 10-point economic incentive plan, including the fast-tracking of regular direct flights across the Taiwan Strait and expanded access for Taiwanese food products to the mainland market.
The proposal also includes plans to share energy and water resources with Taiwan-administered islands such as Kinmen and Matsu—located geographically close to China’s coast—and even explores the possibility of building a bridge to connect them.
The announcement came shortly after a six-day visit by KMT chairwoman Cheng Li-wun, who met with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
The visit drew strong criticism from Taiwan’s ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), which warned that such engagements risk crossing sensitive political boundaries.
While Cheng expressed appreciation for Beijing’s proposals, Taiwan’s government took a more cautious stance.
The Presidential Office emphasized that any cross-strait exchanges should be free from political preconditions and not used as tools for political maneuvering by specific groups.
Taiwan’s Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) also urged vigilance, noting that similar economic incentives from Beijing have been introduced and suspended in the past. Without firm institutional safeguards, the council warned, such measures could pose risks to Taiwan’s industries, farmers, fishers, and broader public interests.
The latest developments underscore a deeper geopolitical reality: behind China’s economic overtures lies an intensifying contest for influence—one that continues to shape the fragile balance of power in East Asia. (RT)
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