The Chinese mainland says that it recognizes the efforts by former Taiwan leader Ma Ying-jeou to promote youth exchanges across the Taiwan Straits.

A spokesperson from the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council says the mainland will continue to provide favorable conditions for such exchanges despite difficulties and obstacles. Spokesperson Zhu Fenglian has also criticized statements by Laura Rosenberger, chair of the American Institute in Taiwan, who is advocating increased self-defense by Taiwan.