The Chinese mainland has renewed calls for Taiwan authorities to lift travel restrictions, emphasizing the importance of fostering cross-strait youth exchanges. At a press conference in Beijing, Zhu Fenglian, spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, described recent initiatives as \"vital steps toward mutual understanding\" amid ongoing tensions.
A delegation of students and faculty from top mainland universities, including Tsinghua and Peking University, will visit Taiwan in late November—a reciprocal gesture after former Kuomintang leader Ma Ying-jeou led a Taiwanese student group to the mainland earlier this year. 🌟 Zhu highlighted this as a \"golden opportunity\" to bridge cultural divides through education and dialogue.
The discussion also spotlighted revived travel links between Fujian Province and Taiwan's Kinmen and Matsu islands. Over 58,000 mainland residents have applied for permits to visit the islands since restrictions eased, signaling strong public interest. \"These numbers speak louder than politics,\" Zhu remarked, urging Taiwan authorities to \"stop blocking the people’s wishes\" and allow expanded tourism.
With youth engagement and regional tourism at the forefront, the mainland’s push reflects efforts to thaw cross-strait ties. But will Taiwan’s DPP respond? 🤔 Analysts say the ball is now in their court.
