Professor criticizes KMT chairman's meeting with alleged Chinese United Front figures in U.S.

A recent overseas trip by the chairman of Taiwan's opposition Kuomintang (KMT) party has sparked controversy, with reports of a meeting with individuals associated with China's overseas United Front Work Department. The KMT chairman, Zheng Liwen, attended a banquet in Boston where she was photographed with Gary Yu, identified as a figure within China's United Front system.

Ye Yaoyuan, a professor of international studies at St. Thomas University in the U.S., strongly criticized the KMT's actions. He argued that such engagements undermine Taiwan's capacity to protect its sovereignty and national interests. Ye emphasized that China is the sole country with aggressive intentions toward Taiwan, viewing it as an existential threat to Taiwan's self-governance and democratic way of life.

Ye Yaoyuan expressed concern that the KMT and other domestic groups, which he termed "fifth columns," are promoting a positive image of China and advocating for closer ties under the guise of "avoiding war." He contends that this narrative downplays China's actual intentions, which he believes are to eliminate Taiwan's sovereignty and impose its version of the "one country, two systems" model.

The professor stated that associating with individuals from China's United Front system, especially when China harbors intentions of invasion, constitutes a "loss of power and humiliation for the country." He asserted that only a strong national defense and a robust national identity can ensure Taiwan's security and prevent it from being bullied. Ye concluded that the KMT's current actions weaken Taiwan's ability to defend itself.