TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Presidential Office Spokesperson Karen Kuo (郭雅慧) clarified on Thursday (June 19) that former President Ma Ying-jeou (馬英九) no longer requires official authorization for his mainland China visits. Ma launched his fourth journey to China on June 14, following the expiration of his mandatory travel restrictions on May 19, 2021. The spokesperson's statement comes amid growing public discussion regarding the appropriateness of the former leader's increasing engagement with Beijing.
According to Kuo, Taiwan's legal framework still requires Ma to notify his former office about China trips under the Act Governing Relations Between the People of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area (兩岸人民關係條例). This obligation stems from his past access to sensitive national security information during his presidency. The spokesperson confirmed that all required documentation has been properly filed and archived by the Presidential Office. Kuo added that public opinion would inevitably evaluate the appropriateness of Ma's activities abroad, particularly considering his significant historical role as Taiwan's former president.
The reporting requirement for Ma's China visits remains in effect for a five-year period spanning from May 20, 2021, through May 19, 2026, though these trips no longer require presidential authorization. During the press briefing, Kuo articulated the current administration's broader approach to cross-strait engagement, stressing principles of "mutual respect and dignity" as foundational elements. The government continues to support "healthy and orderly exchanges" with China while prioritizing regional peace and stability across the politically sensitive Taiwan Strait. ◼