Throughout his two terms, Taiwan's former leader Ma Ying-jeou brought the island closer to the mainland, increasing the number of tourists, business deals and talks across the Straits to a level not thought possible a decade ago, experts say.

The mainland and Taiwan have built political trust during the past eight years and have improved cooperation in many fields and reduced conflict on international affairs, said Ma Xiaoguang, spokesman for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office.

During Ma Ying-jeou's tenure, 23 agreements were signed, including cooperation on trade and civil aviation.