TAOYUAN (TVBS News) — Former President Ma Ying-jeou kicked off his second visit to China on Monday (April 1), labeling it a "journey of peace and friendship" aimed at easing cross-strait tensions.
Ma's 11-day itinerary includes stops in Guangdong, Shaanxi, and Beijing. Speculation hints at a potential second meeting between Ma and Chinese President Xi Jinping on April 8 or 9.
Addressing reporters at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport, Ma, who has been out of office for eight years and holds no public or party positions, stated his sole objective is to foster cross-strait youth exchanges and goodwill between the two sides.
Accompanied by Taiwanese students from the Ma Ying-jeou Foundation's Dajiu Academy, Ma expressed hope that his visit would signify Taiwan's pursuit of peace and rejection of war, particularly amid escalating cross-strait tensions.
Ma emphasized that his endeavors have facilitated friendships among young people on both sides of the strait. He highlighted the effectiveness of such initiatives, citing affirmation and support from various sectors on both sides.