Red Carpet Treatment for Taiwanese Opposition Leader in Nanjing

Strategic Insights -

Bill Savadove in Nanjing has reported that the mainland has rolled out the red carpet for Lien Chan, the Taiwanese opposition leader, treating him to a grand welcome typically reserved for heads of state. Upon his arrival, Lien was greeted by mainland officials and thousands of journalists, marking a historic moment in cross-strait relations. The KMT leader was accompanied by his wife, Lien Fang Yu, and a large entourage, who were received with bouquets of flowers and a red banner welcoming the China Kuomintang delegation.

Key Takeaways:

  • Lien Chan, the Taiwanese opposition leader, received a grand welcome in Nanjing, typically reserved for heads of state.
  • The KMT leader was accompanied by wife Lien Fang Yu and a large entourage, who were received with bouquets of flowers and a red banner.
  • The delegation will visit the tomb of KMT founder Sun Yat-sen, view the city's sights, and eat local delicacies.
  • Jiangsu Party Secretary Li Yuanchao presented Mr Lien with an embroidered dragon as a gift.
  • The KMT delegation reciprocated with a traditional ding, or ancient-style cooking vessel, which represents prosperity.
  • Chinese Communist Party officials, including Chen Yunlin, director of the Taiwan Office, were present to welcome the KMT delegation.
  • Lien Chan had previously visited Nanjing with his mother after Japan was defeated in WWII, before the KMT fled to Taiwan.

Statistics:

  • 300 journalists were present to record the historic moment of Lien's arrival.
  • 5 female airport workers held up a red banner with the message "Welcome the China Kuomintang delegation visiting the mainland".
  • 1 embroidered dragon was presented to Lien by Jiangsu Party Secretary Li Yuanchao as a gift.
  • 1 traditional ding, or ancient-style cooking vessel, was reciprocated as a gift to the Chinese Communist Party officials.

Sources:

  • Bill Savadove in Nanjing.