Shanghai and Taipei Forge Stronger Ties at Annual City Forum
The 2024 Shanghai-Taipei City Forum kicked off on Tuesday in Taipei, bringing together leaders and representatives from both cities to discuss smart governance and sustainable development. The theme of this year’s forum, “Smart Governance, Sustainable Future,” highlights the shared ambitions of Shanghai and Taipei to drive integrated growth and urban innovation.
Hua Yuan, the deputy mayor of Shanghai, addressed the opening ceremony, expressing hopes for deeper cooperation between the two cities. “We anticipate this forum will strengthen our collaboration in transportation, water management, healthcare, and environmental protection,” Hua said. He also encouraged residents from both cities to visit each other’s homes, announcing plans to promote group tours between Shanghai and Taipei.
Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of communication during challenging times. “In tense and difficult periods, increasing understanding is far better than increasing misunderstanding,” Chiang noted. He praised the continuous annual hosting of the forum despite various obstacles, underscoring its role in fostering cross-strait dialogue.
The forum featured sub-forums where experts and officials shared experiences and ideas on topics like friendly transportation cooperation, river management, and cultivating culturally vibrant cities. Additionally, Shanghai and Taipei signed cooperation agreements focusing on smart healthcare initiatives and the exchange and conservation of red pandas, symbolizing a commitment to both technological advancement and environmental stewardship.
The Annual Shanghai-Taipei City Forum continues to serve as a vital platform for collaboration, aiming to build a sustainable future through joint efforts and shared vision.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
