Mainland Chinese delegation to visit Taiwan Malone: If you want to taste Taiwanese food, politics |
The Ma Ying-jeou Foundation has invited a delegation of 40 teachers and students from seven universities in mainland China to visit Taiwan. The group arrived at Taoyuan Airport on November 27, 2024, including notable athletes such as six-time Olympic table tennis gold medalist Ma Long and Olympic shooting gold medalist Yang Qian.
Xiao Jusen, the CEO of the Ma Ying-jeou Foundation, stated that this visit is significant for cross-strait relations, which are currently strained. He emphasized the importance of sports and youth exchanges as a common ground between Taiwan and China.
The foundation hopes to recreate the positive atmosphere of past exchanges during Ma Ying-jeou’s presidency. Xiao believes this will help reduce tensions and foster better communication.
During their visit, the delegation will engage with various Taiwanese universities, including Sun Yat-sen Girls’ High School. They plan to experience local culture, including Taiwanese cuisine and baseball.
How does sports diplomacy play a role in improving cross-strait relations, according to Xiao Jusen?
Interview with Xiao Jusen, CEO of the Ma Ying-jeou Foundation
Date: November 27, 2024
News Directory 3: Thank you for joining us, Mr. Xiao. The Ma Ying-jeou Foundation recently welcomed a delegation from mainland China, comprising 40 teachers and students, including renowned athletes. Why was this visit deemed necessary at this point in time?
Xiao Jusen: Thank you for having me. This visit is crucial given the current state of cross-strait relations, which have become increasingly strained. By inviting these students and teachers, we aim to reclaim the spirit of engagement and understanding that characterized exchanges during Ma Ying-jeou’s presidency. Sports and cultural interactions provide a common ground that can transcend political differences.
News Directory 3: You mentioned the importance of sports and youth exchanges. Can you elaborate on how these aspects could facilitate better communication between Taiwan and mainland China?
Xiao Jusen: Certainly. Sports, in particular, unite people across borders. They foster camaraderie and sportsmanship, which can soften the barriers that political discourse often creates. The younger generation is especially vital for this process; they can form friendships and understand each other in ways that political leaders often struggle to. These exchanges not only promote cultural appreciation but also pave the way for dialogue and mutual respect.
News Directory 3: The delegation includes famous athletes like Ma Long and Yang Qian. What role do you think their presence plays in this exchange?
Xiao Jusen: Their participation is pivotal. Athletes have the power to inspire, and their status can draw attention to the goodwill we want to cultivate. Ma Long, for instance, expressed excitement about interacting with Taiwan’s top player, Lin Yunru, which creates an opportunity for friendly competition. This interaction can symbolize a desire for harmony, showing that despite our differences, we can still share a passion for sports.
News Directory 3: The delegation will engage with local universities and experience Taiwanese culture during their visit. Why do you consider this cultural exposure important?
Xiao Jusen: Cultural exchange is essential to foster understanding. When individuals from different backgrounds engage with each other’s traditions, food, and daily life, they build relatable experiences and personal connections. This visit allows the delegation to appreciate Taiwanese culture firsthand, which can help counter stereotypes and misconceptions.
News Directory 3: It’s clear that you prioritize understanding and communication. However, do you foresee any challenges during this visit, especially considering the political contexts?
Xiao Jusen: Yes, there are always challenges when engaging across political lines. Differing perspectives and sensitivities exist, but I believe that through open dialogue and shared experiences, we can mitigate misunderstandings. The key is focusing on what unites us rather than what divides us.
News Directory 3: what message do you hope the delegation and the Taiwanese audience take away from this visit?
Xiao Jusen: I hope both sides realize that dialogue is possible and necessary. By building connections and understanding, we can pave the way for a more peaceful coexistence. The youth can be the agents of change, creating a future that values collaboration over conflict.
News Directory 3: Thank you for your insights, Mr. Xiao. We look forward to seeing how this initiative unfolds.
Xiao Jusen: Thank you for having me. I am optimistic about the positive outcomes of this visit.
Ma Long expressed his enthusiasm for seeing Taiwan and trying its food. He also mentioned a potential friendly match with Taiwan’s top table tennis player, Lin Yunru, depending on his schedule. Yang Qian shared her desire to explore and see as much as possible during their trip.
Xiao reiterated the value of youth exchanges and building connections between the younger generations of both sides. He stated that understanding each other is a priority and can help ease conflicts.
The visit occurs amid discussions about differences in government systems and political contexts between Taiwan and mainland China.