Cheng Li-wun, Chairperson of the Kuomintang (KMT), recently gave an interview to CNN, in which she proposed the concept of a “Chain of Peace and Prosperity.”

 

Chairperson Cheng stated that the “First Island Chain,” once shaped by Cold War-era military confrontation, should gradually be transformed into a network of major economic and exchange hubs connecting Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, China’s coastal regions, and Southeast Asia, thereby creating a “Chain of Peace and Prosperity” that promotes cooperation and shared prosperity. She emphasized that East Asia should not become a battleground for zero-sum geopolitical rivalry, but rather a vital force driving global peace and prosperity.

 

Addressing issues including Taiwan’s national defense, cross-Strait relations, Taiwan–U.S. relations, and the broader strategic landscape in East Asia, Chairperson Cheng comprehensively outlined the KMT’s position to the international community. She reiterated that Taiwan should not be forced to choose between the United States and China, nor should it become a pawn in great-power competition. The KMT, she said, will continue to safeguard the security of the Republic of China, peace across the Taiwan Strait, and the well-being of the people through a pragmatic and steady approach.

 

Chairperson Cheng stated that the KMT has always firmly supported the national defense and security of the Republic of China and remains the most stable and responsible supporter of Taiwan’s defense capabilities. In the interview, she clearly stated that the KMT supports specific and clearly defined arms procurement from the United States that genuinely meet Taiwan’s defense needs. In particular, she stressed that procurement items for which a Letter of Offer and Acceptance (LOA) has already been issued should be prioritized and processed expeditiously.

 

As a force for legislative oversight, the KMT has a responsibility to safeguard taxpayers’ money and reject blank-check authorizations and opaque budgeting practices. Chairperson Cheng emphasized that this reflects the accountability and oversight expected in a mature democracy.

 

On cross-Strait relations and the international environment, Chairperson Cheng noted that Taiwan occupies a critical position in the Indo-Pacific and maintains important relationships with both the United States and mainland China. Taiwan, she said, should therefore not be forced into a binary choice between the two. What Taiwan truly needs is peace, stability, and development—not being pushed to the front line of confrontation.

 

Chairperson Cheng emphasized that the KMT supports deepening cooperative relations with the United States while also maintaining stable communication and exchanges across the Taiwan Strait in order to avoid miscalculation and escalation. She stated that the KMT has long adhered to promoting cross-Strait engagement in accordance with the Constitution of the Republic of China and the 1992 Consensus, with the consistent core objective of preserving peace in the Taiwan Strait and protecting public safety.

 

Referring to her recent visit to mainland China, Chairperson Cheng said that both sides recognized the importance of maintaining regional peace and stability. The exchanges focused on restoring interaction, reducing hostility, and expanding the capacity for peace. She reiterated that the people of Taiwan cherish democracy, freedom, and their existing way of life, and that any exchanges must be grounded in mutual respect, peace, and pragmatism.

 

On the geopolitical front, Chairperson Cheng pointed out that Taiwan holds a critical position in the global semiconductor industry and occupies an indispensable place in international supply chains. Peace in the Taiwan Strait, she said, is therefore not only vital to Taiwan, but also to global economic security and regional stability. Any conflict in East Asia would have profound global consequences, making it imperative for the international community to work together to reduce confrontation risks and prevent war.

 

Discussing her own political journey and long-term vision, Chairperson Cheng said she has consistently focused on Taiwan’s future and regional peace, fully aware of the enormous human cost that war would impose. For that reason, she has always approached Taiwan’s future with pragmatism and rational judgment.

 

In the face of rapidly changing global circumstances, she said, the KMT will remain committed to three strategic directions: strengthening national defense, maintaining dialogue to preserve peace, and deepening international cooperation—ensuring that Taiwan remains secure, stable, and prosperous amid global uncertainty.

 

Chairperson Cheng concluded by stating that the KMT will continue to unite and work actively toward the 2026 and 2028 elections, striving to return to government and pursue a steady, rational, and responsible path to create a more enduring future of peace and development for Taiwan, the Taiwan Strait, and the international community.