"Former Taiwan President Ma Ying-jeou's Peace Mission to China"

Former Taiwan President Ma Ying-jeou's 11-day visit to China comes amid heightened tensions between the two countries, with Beijing expressing disapproval of Taiwan's next president, Lai Ching-te. Ma's favorable stance towards closer ties with China contrasts with Lai's rejection of Beijing's claim that Taiwan is part of China. The warm reception of Ma by Chinese officials is seen as a message that Beijing remains open to politicians who support closer ties and accept its conditions for talks, while also signaling a firm approach towards Taiwan.