TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Chinese leader Xi Jinping sent a message to Cheng Li-wun (鄭麗文) congratulating her on winning Saturday’s KMT chair election.

In his message, Xi said the Chinese Communist Party and the KMT have closely cooperated over the years, with relations based on the so-called “1992 consensus” and mutual opposition to Taiwan independence, reported UDN.

Xi said the world is undergoing major change and that the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation cannot be stopped. The communist leader expressed hope the two parties will continue to work together to promote mutual development and eventual unification.

Later Sunday afternoon, the KMT sent a thank-you message to Xi and posted its contents on the party’s website. The KMT reaffirmed its adherence to the so-called “1992 consensus” and the one China principle.

In the party’s reply, the KMT said the Taiwanese people belong to the Chinese nation and said it hopes to build on the existing foundation between the two parties to promote peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.

Some pundits say the message may indicate that Xi is laying the groundwork for a potential meeting with Cheng, reported LTN. Previous KMT chair Eric Chu (朱立倫) received a similar congratulatory message, with the KMT issuing a similar response.