Ma Ying-jeou, former leader of Taiwan, expressed confidence in resuming exchanges between the two sides of the Taiwan Straits when he landed at an airport in Taoyuan, Taiwan on Friday after concluding his visit to the Chinese mainland.

Ma told reporters "young people are our future, and the earlier we communicate and get to know each other, the lower the chances of conflicts in the future."

Ma said his 12-day visit was the first step, and he will invite mainland students to visit Taiwan.

Ma said he has demonstrated through practical action that by adhering to the 1992 Consensus, seeking common ground while reserving differences and respecting each other, the island can establish common political foundation with the mainland.

"Resuming exchanges and dialogue as soon as possible benefits the interests of the Taiwan people the most," he said.

Ma also criticized the island's administration for bringing Taiwan into danger.

He said, "The future is the choice of peace and war. I will continue to work hard among the people to ensure a truly peaceful, prosperous and secure future for Taiwan."