On Monday, Taiwan’s former president Ma Ying-jeou visited mainland China, becoming the first current or former Taiwanese leader to do so since the Communist revolution in 1949.
Ma’s visit has been criticised by the ruling Democratic Progressive Party, with the trip coming at a time of heightened tensions between Beijing and Taipei. Ma, who served as president from 2008 to 2016, said he hoped to bring about peace and improve relations during his visit. He also stated that he would be talking to students and visiting the graves of his ancestors in China.
While Ma is not scheduled to meet any senior Chinese officials, he will be “at his host’s disposal” if they arrange a meeting. Both supporters and opponents were present at the airport for Ma’s departure.