Taiwan’s Former President Ma Ying-jeou’s Peace Journey to China
Taiwan’s former president Ma Ying-jeou embarked on a visit to China on Monday with the aim of fostering peace and reducing tensions across the Taiwan Strait.
Background
China considers Taiwan as part of its territory and has not ruled out the use of force to assert control over the self-governing island. Ma, a member of the Beijing-friendly Kuomintang party, served as Taiwan’s president from 2008 to 2016 and played a key role in improving cross-strait relations, including a historic summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping in 2015.
Current Situation
Since Ma’s presidency, tensions between Taiwan and China have escalated, especially following the election of Tsai Ing-wen as Ma’s successor. Tsai’s administration rejects Beijing’s territorial claims, leading to increased pressure from China on Taipei.
Ma’s Objectives
Before departing for China, Ma emphasized that his visit was aimed at promoting peace and friendship. He expressed the desire to convey the Taiwanese people’s aspirations for peace, cross-strait exchanges, and the avoidance of conflict. Ma also highlighted his goal of fostering youth exchanges, reducing hostility, and building goodwill between the two sides.
Public Response
While some supporters welcomed Ma’s efforts for peace, there were also demonstrators opposing his visit, cautioning against compromising Taiwan’s interests.
Past Initiatives
In a significant move last year, Ma became the first Taiwanese leader in over seven decades to visit China, signaling a commitment to improving cross-strait relations. He believes that fostering friendships among young people from both sides can help ease tensions and resolve conflicts.
Upcoming Itinerary
During his current visit, Ma is accompanied by a group of Taiwanese students and plans to visit technology companies, universities, and cultural sites in Guangdong and Shaanxi before concluding his trip in Beijing.