Are Cross-Strait Chinese? Chiang Wan-an: I Am Taiwanese and a Citizen of the Republic of China

Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an today led bureau chiefs to the Taipei City Council to accept policy report inquiries. DPP Councilor Hsu Shu-hua questioned whether Chiang Wan-an could accept the CCP's attitude during the Zheng-Xi meeting, given the continuous harassment by the PLA. Chiang Wan-an stated that he strongly condemns any actions that provoke cross-strait conflict or heighten tensions.

Hsu Shu-hua then asked if Chiang Wan-an agreed with Cheng Li-wen and Xi Jinping's statement of "cross-strait Chinese." Chiang Wan-an said that, like the DPP's主張, no one needs to apologize for their identity, and he has repeatedly expressed that he is Taiwanese and a citizen of the Republic of China.

DPP Councilor Chien Shu-pei continued to press, asking if he agreed with Cheng Li-wen's claim of being Chinese. Chiang Wan-an reiterated that the DPP states no one needs to apologize for their identity, and he identifies himself as Taiwanese and a citizen of the Republic of China.

Independent Councilor Hsu Li-hsin asked what part of today's Zheng-Xi meeting impressed him the most. Chiang Wan-an replied that after attending municipal events in the morning, he then prepared for the afternoon policy report and rushed to the council, so he had not yet seen relevant reports.

Hsu Li-hsin further asked if Cheng Li-wen's expectation for the KMT and CCP to jointly promote the institutionalization of cross-strait peace was appropriate. Chiang Wan-an said he had not yet read the report and was unclear and did not understand the complete context. He believed Cheng Li-wen was likely just making an appeal or proposal, hoping to maintain cross-strait peace and stability.

Regarding Cheng Li-wen and Xi Jinping's repeated mention of adhering to the "1992 Consensus" and opposing Taiwan independence, Chiang Wan-an said that his understanding of the "1992 Consensus" is one that conforms to the Constitution of the Republic of China, which is to defend the sovereignty of the Republic of China and protect Taiwan's democracy, freedom, and rule of law.

Hsu Li-hsin finally asked if a "Chiang-Xi meeting" would be held in the future. Chiang Wan-an said that as Taipei Mayor, he would promote cross-strait exchanges, including through the long-standing platform of the Twin City Forum, for municipal exchanges between Taipei and Shanghai. However, he suggested that the DPP government seriously consider how to maintain peaceful cross-strait relations, as this is what a ruling party should do. (Edited by Lung Po-an) 1150410