TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Mainland Affairs Council Minister Chiu Tai-san, on Monday (April 8), expressed that any communication between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait is beneficial in response to former President Ma Ying-jeou's visit to China.
Chiu, while being interviewed at the Legislative Yuan, noted that although it is the transition period before the inauguration on May 20, the council will continue to monitor the situation and provide relevant information and analysis to the authorities in a timely manner.
Ma arrived in Beijing on a day earlier, with rumors suggesting a possible second meeting between Ma and Xi Jinping on April 10.
Chiu said they are closely monitoring Ma's itinerary in China, just like everyone else. He expressed hope that all Taiwanese visiting China, whether for tourism or cultural and educational exchanges, can return safely.
When asked by the media whether Ma's visit could be seen as "self-degrading national dignity," Chiu said he was not in a position to comment on individual behavior. However, he noted that it seemed Ma was visiting in a private capacity, and the Chinese side also seemed to be addressing him as "Mr. Ma Ying-jeou."
As for Ma being addressed as "President" by Taiwanese people in China, Chiu simply said, "I think there are many different ways of addressing people in Taiwan as well."