Introduction: A recent proposal by former Legislative Speaker Wang Jin-pyng regarding Taiwan’s future relations with China has stirred political responses from both sides of Taiwan’s main political divide. Wang, a prominent member of the opposition Kuomintang (KMT), has called for a new cross-strait framework, describing it as “separate governance without division.” While the Kuomintang shows support for the initiative, the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has voiced strong opposition, calling it akin to Beijing’s “One Country, Two Systems” model.
Wang’s Proposal: “Separate Governance Without Division”
At the launch of his new cross-strait think tank on Sunday, Wang proposed a fresh approach to cross-strait relations. His framework emphasizes the notion that while Taiwan and China are governed separately, they both share sovereignty without division. The goal of the proposal is to maintain peaceful interactions between Taiwan and China while acknowledging the current political realities of both entities.
Wang believes this formula can bridge the differences between the two sides and help foster peaceful dialogue and exchanges, without compromising Taiwan’s governance. “This proposal pragmatically addresses the current separation of governance, while keeping open avenues for peace,” Wang said at the think tank launch.
Reactions from the KMT: Support for Peaceful Dialogue
The KMT, led by Chairman Eric Chu, expressed approval of Wang’s proposal. Chu emphasized that the KMT has always supported cross-strait exchanges and peaceful relations. He stated, “We welcome all contributions to cross-strait peace and support efforts to allow dialogue based on existing foundations.”
The KMT believes that Wang’s proposal could pave the way for meaningful interaction with China, as both sides seek to stabilize their relationship without undermining Taiwan’s autonomy.
DPP’s Opposition: Concerns Over Sovereignty and Deception
On the other hand, the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has raised concerns about the potential implications of Wang’s formula. Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung stated, “Taiwan is a sovereign, independent, democratic country,” and warned that separating sovereignty from governance could lead to ambiguous interpretations and disputes over Taiwan’s identity.
DPP legislator Puma Shen was more direct in his criticism, accusing Wang of promoting a formula similar to China’s “One Country, Two Systems” proposal for Taiwan. Shen dismissed Wang’s approach as a deceptive tactic to mislead the Taiwanese people and undermine Taiwan’s sovereignty.
The DPP reiterated its stance on cross-strait relations, highlighting President Tsai Ing-wen’s 2021 “Four Commitments,” which focus on maintaining Taiwan’s democratic system, resisting any attempts at annexation by China, and ensuring that Taiwan’s future will be determined by the will of its people.
Public Opinion: Support for Sovereignty and Democratic Values
Polling data from Taiwan’s Mainland Affairs Council supports the DPP’s position, with 75% of the Taiwanese public agreeing that Taiwan and China should not be subordinate to each other, and 85% supporting the idea that Taiwan’s future must be decided by its people.
Table: Key Points of the Four Commitments by Taiwan’s Government
| Commitment | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Democratic System | Taiwan’s commitment to maintaining a free and democratic constitutional system. |
| 2. Non-Subordination | Taiwan and China should not be subordinate to each other. |
| 3. Resistance to Annexation | Taiwan will resist any efforts of annexation or encroachment on its sovereignty. |
| 4. People’s Right to Decide | The future of Taiwan must be determined by the will of the Taiwanese people. |
FAQs
Q1: What is Wang Jin-pyng’s proposed formula for cross-strait relations?
A1: Wang’s proposal is based on “separate governance without division,” where Taiwan and China are governed separately but share sovereignty without compromising Taiwan’s independence.
Q2: How has the KMT responded to this proposal?
A2: The KMT, led by Eric Chu, has expressed support for Wang’s initiative, emphasizing the importance of fostering peaceful cross-strait relations and exchanges.
Q3: What is the DPP’s stance on Wang Jin-pyng’s formula?
A3: The DPP opposes the proposal, stating that it undermines Taiwan’s sovereignty and could lead to Taiwan being absorbed into China’s political system, similar to the “One Country, Two Systems” approach.
Q4: What are the “Four Commitments” proposed by Taiwan’s government?
A4: The “Four Commitments” include a commitment to Taiwan’s democratic system, non-subordination with China, resisting annexation, and ensuring Taiwan’s future is decided by its people.
