Exchanges in religion and culture across Taiwan Straits would get a boost in the future, said Chiang Pin-kung, chairman of Taiwan's Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) Thursday.

Vice Chairman Kao Koong Liann(R) and Wang Fuqing,vice president of the ARATS.

Chiang made the remarks while hosting a 16-member delegation led by Wang Fuqing, vice president of the mainland-based Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Straits (ARATS).

"Both ARATS and SEF should adjust their work by gradually expanding into other diverse fields such as culture, education and health instead of focusing on economic and trade topics only," said Chiang.

Chiang was echoed by SEF Vice Chairman Kao Koong Liann.

"On the basis of direct links for mail, trade and transport services, more cultural, religious and social exchanges will help people across the Strait to better understand each other," said Kao, who is also secretary-general of the SEF.

The mainland delegation, consisting members from religious community and of minority nationalities, arrived at Taipei early Thursday for a nine-day visit in Taiwan.

The visit is the first exchange activity between the ARATS and the SEF this year.