Taiwan leader Ma Ying-jeou on Wednesday called for the passing of legislation to allow Taiwan higher-learning institutions to enroll students from the Chinese mainland.

It would be a new landmark in the development of cross-Strait relations to allow mainland students to study in Taiwan and recognize degrees from mainland schools, said Ma at a meeting of the ruling Kuomintang Party, which he serves as chairman.

"It would definitely have a significant impact on the development of cross-Strait relations," he said, adding that cross-Strait academic and educational exchanges would fulfill three purposes.

It would enhance mutual understanding between young people across the Taiwan Strait so that a foundation for long-term cross-Strait peace could be established.

Further, it would strengthen the adaptability of Taiwan students, because mainland students would provide more competition and diversity in classrooms in Taiwan.

Finally, it would help to utilize Taiwan's over-developed higher learning institutions, Ma said.

Taiwan's regional legislature is planning to discuss the bills on Thursday.

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