The remarkable Xi-Ma meeting has just concluded, but it ushers in new eras for Xi Jinping and Ma Ying-jeou. Since publication of The Message to Compatriots in Taiwan in 1979, both sides have endorsed the Wang-Koo talks and Hu-Lian talks. [Special coverage]
The Wang-Koo talks allowed for consultations on cross-Strait relations. The Hu-Lian talks established greater progress on relations, while the Xi-Ma meeting highlighted a major success on stronger cross-Strait ties. Ma endorsed the "1992 Consensus" at his meeting with Xi.
Ma said both sides have reached a consensus on the "one China" principle in November 1992 that sustains present-day peacekeeping efforts. He clarified the meaning of the "1992 Consensus."
The core clarification is the "one China" principle, which has overlapped with Xi's frank view that he expressed in close-door exchanges with Ma. Xi said any issue and question must comply with the "one-China" principle.
The two leaders enhanced mutual trust, allowing more space for future cross-Strait relations to develop, which has a broad strategic vision and national concern.
The two leaders are keeping pace with the times, working together to consolidate peaceful cross-Strait relations and realizing the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.
Whether such progress can succeed after May 20, 2016 depends on next Taiwan leader and if he would adhere to the "1992 Consensus."
Additionally, Taiwan compatriots can engage in pragmatic negotiations as long as the Taiwan side does not change the nature of relations.
The goal is to increase the intimacy and well-being of compatriots on both sides to live happier lives. In close-door talks, Xi spoke about the "three benefits" for the well-being of people on both sides.
He said both sides should do their best to conform with the "three benefits." The top leaders support more negotiations to reach a programmatic consensus on cross-Strait relations.
Accordingly, all fields can open up to a new era for improved ties. The Taiwan political situation and cross-Strait relations are in a crucial juncture.
No matter how the political situation on the island will change in the future, how political parties and leaders will rotate; there exists much prospects for cross-Strait relations to keep growing.
Taiwan and the problem that Taiwan compatriots are concerned about can be solved as long as we stand together on the "1992 Consensus."
By Zhu Songling, Director, Institute of Cross-Strait Relations, Taiwan Research Institution, Beijing Union University
