The Ma Ying-jeou Foundation recently hosted a delegation of Chinese students in Taiwan, organizing visits to institutions like Taipei Municipal Zhong Shan Girls High School, National Taiwan University, and National Tsing Hua University. However, remarks by some delegation members have drawn criticism. Notably, a Fudan University senior congratulated "Chinese Taipei" for winning the WBSC Premier 12, sparking backlash.
National Taiwan University students protested during the event on Tuesday, while representatives from all three host schools held a press conference on Wednesday. They criticized the delegation as a "Chinese propaganda exchange group" and called for safeguarding free speech and ensuring mutual respect in cultural exchanges.
During a legislative hearing on Wednesday, Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) Chairman Chiu Chui-cheng (邱垂正) expressed regret over the delegation’s politically charged comments, stating that they were in violation of entry regulations for Mainland visitors. Chiu also faulted the Ma Ying-jeou Foundation for not submitting the required application prior to the visit.
Chiu also condemned Beijing’s aggressive actions, urging the international community to take China’s military threats against Taiwan seriously. He stressed that such intimidation only deepens the divide across the Taiwan Strait, harming relations and underscoring the need for international solidarity with Taiwan’s democratic values.