The 17th Straits Forum kicked off in Xiamen, east China’s Fujian Province, attracting over 7,000 participants from various walks of life. The annual event, established in 2009, serves as a vital platform for expanding people-to-people exchanges and fostering integrated development between the Chinese mainland and the Taiwan region.
Despite challenges and restrictions imposed by the Taiwan authorities ahead of this year’s forum, participants from Taiwan enthusiastically joined the event, demonstrating a strong desire for connection and cooperation. The forum addresses topics ranging from agriculture to economic collaboration, providing opportunities for farmers from Taiwan to showcase their products and establish partnerships with distributors on the mainland. This collaboration not only boosts their income but also enriches the choices available to mainland consumers.
The Straits Forum is more than an economic bridge; it’s a forum for peace and understanding. By bringing together people from both sides of the Taiwan Straits, it encourages open dialogue, reduces misunderstandings, and promotes harmonious coexistence. In a time of unprecedented challenges, such face-to-face interactions are crucial in defusing tensions and building mutual trust.
Over the years, the forum has played a significant role in supporting youth from Taiwan by providing internships, job opportunities, and resources for entrepreneurship on the mainland. This has empowered young people to seize development opportunities, gain tangible benefits, and build confidence in their future prospects.
The Straits Forum symbolizes an unstoppable trend toward unity and shared destiny. As the Chinese nation moves toward rejuvenation, the people on both sides of the Taiwan Straits are recognizing the benefits of working together. The forum highlights the collective desire for a better future and reinforces the bonds of family and culture that unite them.
Amid global changes, it’s essential for all compatriots to seize the opportunities of the era, stand together, and share in the progress and development. The 17th Straits Forum is a testament to the enduring spirit of unity and the shared aspirations of the people across the Taiwan Straits.
