Running for 2028 Presidential Election? Cheng Li-wen: Not Thinking That Far Ahead

Taipei (CNA) – Discussions have arisen regarding whether Kuomintang Chairperson Cheng Li-wen will run in the 2028 presidential election. She stated today that she is not thinking that far ahead, maintaining a calm and detached mindset, and will not hesitate or be indecisive, but rather act once she has a clear understanding of what needs to be done.

Cheng Li-wen recently visited mainland China and met with CCP General Secretary Xi Jinping. Cheng stated in a radio interview today that she had never met Xi Jinping in person before and was completely unfamiliar with him. Her first impression upon meeting Xi Jinping during this visit to China was that he was very approachable, natural, and relaxed. When it was Xi Jinping's turn to respond to her remarks, he spoke extensively off-script, showing genuine emotion.

After her trip to China, external attention focused on Cheng Li-wen's thoughts on the 2028 presidential election. Cheng explained that she never troubles herself with distant matters, not thinking about such remote things, and not letting such matters affect her current mood or her judgment of what she should be doing now.

Cheng Li-wen revealed that 2028 is too far away, and she does not think about such things. This is why she maintains a calm mindset, has no fear of loss or gain, will not hesitate or be indecisive, and will act once she has a clear understanding of what needs to be done.

Cheng Li-wen also mentioned that since becoming party chairperson, she has been constantly thinking about Taiwan's future. During her visit to mainland China, Shanghai Party Secretary Chen Jining shared Shanghai's experiences and offered suggestions on what Taiwan should do, which deeply moved her. Every word hit the mark and answered her questions.

Regarding her upcoming plan to visit the United States, Cheng Li-wen explained that this trip will include visits to Washington D.C., think tanks, and also non-official private invitations, such as visiting a Nobel laureate in economics.

Cheng Li-wen believes that Taiwan should not underestimate itself and should not ignore its strategic value. Taiwan's strategic value should be reflected in its absolute right to speak on its future destiny and cross-strait relations, and its ability to set the agenda, rather than being reduced to a bargaining chip in the geopolitical game of major powers. (Editors: Hsieh Chia-chen, Chang Jo-yao) 1150415