Youths from Taiwan and Mainland China are coming together in unique ways, forging stronger bonds through snow sculpting and sports. Led by former Kuomintang chairman Ma Ying-jeou, a delegation of young people from Taiwan embarked on a nine-day visit to the mainland, culminating in heartwarming exchanges that transcended the chilly temperatures.
In Harbin, known for its winter wonderland, the delegation braved -15 degrees Celsius to immerse themselves in the art of snow sculpting. At the iconic Sun Island, dubbed the ‘Urban Snow Village,’ these young visitors picked up snow trowels and chisels to create their own snowy masterpieces beneath the towering sculpture of the Great Wall.
“The northern landscape is incredibly beautiful,” shared one of the Taiwanese youths. “It offers a completely different experience from Taiwan. I want to explore all three northeastern provinces.”
The visit wasn’t just about the icy charms of Harbin; it was about connecting with peers across the Taiwan Straits. The enthusiastic exchanges and shared experiences helped melt away barriers, fostering a sense of unity.
“The exchanges between youths on both sides can melt even the hardest ice and snow,” said Ma Ying-jeou during the opening ceremony of the Cross-Straits Youth Ice and Snow Festival. He expressed hope that such visits would become more frequent, allowing young people to explore each other’s cultures and forge lasting friendships.
Earlier, a mainland delegation, including six-time Olympic table tennis champion Ma Long, visited Taiwan, engaging in sports and cultural activities. Ma Long’s presence drew enthusiastic crowds, highlighting the unifying power of sports. “We should play ping-pong, not war,” remarked Hsiao Hsu-tsen, executive director of the Ma Ying-jeou Culture and Education Foundation.
These exchanges provide an opportunity for young people to experience cultural differences, dispel prejudices, and discover shared values. As Chen Ke-wei of the Kuomintang noted, such engagement forms a vital basis for the peaceful development of cross-Straits relations.
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From snow to sports: Mainland and Taiwan youths forge stronger bonds
cgtn.com
