Importance of exchanges highlighted

The critical importance of cross-Strait exchanges and cooperation was underscored at the 18th Straits Forum in Xiamen, Fujian province, as participants from both sides of the Taiwan Strait gathered over the weekend, overcoming obstructions from island authorities.

The annual forum, which started in 2009, serves as a platform to promote mutual understanding and integration between the mainland and Taiwan, emphasizing the shared cultural and economic interests binding both sides.

Addressing the main conference on Saturday, Wang Huning, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, China's top political advisory body, called for resolute opposition to "Taiwan independence" separatist activities and external interference, urging joint efforts to advance peaceful cross-Strait relations and national reunification.

He emphasized that the mainland stands ready to share development opportunities with Taiwan compatriots, noting that the country's blueprint for the ongoing 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-30) period will open up broader space for cross-Strait integration.

At a meeting on Saturday on advancing the development of the demonstration zone for integrated development across the Taiwan Strait, Wang urged greater progress in advancing such integration during the 15th Five-Year Plan period.

He called for supporting Fujian in exploring new mechanisms, pathways and models for cross-Strait integrated development. He also urged closer people-to-people and cultural exchanges.

Under the theme of expanding people-to-people exchanges, this year's Straits Forum featured 58 diverse events covering grassroots, youth, cultural and economic exchange sectors.

Earlier, Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party authorities elevated restrictions by banning island officials from attending the event, marking the first time the island's grassroots officials were blocked from participation.

Addressing the forum despite these bans, Chang Jung-kung, vice-chairman of the Chinese Kuomin­tang party, said that despite twists and turns, the Straits Forum has always been committed to promoting exchanges and playing a critical role in cross-Strait relations.

During the forum, mainland enterprises signed agreements with various businesses and trade associations from Taiwan, buying signature agricultural goods including atemoya and pomelos, as well as tea and fishery products from counties such as Taitung, Yunlin and Nantou.

The contracts serve as a major step forward in implementing the 10 follow-up exchange policies introduced following the landmark cross-Strait meeting between leaders of the CPC and KMT in April, focusing on the practical livelihood needs of grassroots families and small business operators.

Yao Ching-ling, magistrate of Taitung county, said via a live video link that the purchase agreements were an immense encouragement to local farmers. "Agricultural and fishery products carry the core livelihoods of countless Taiwan families," she said.

A range of prominent figures and grassroots representatives also stepped onto the stage during the conference to share their stories of cross-Strait integration.

Su Heng, a Taiwan political commentary vlogger, said grassroots perspectives and livelihood statistics best reflect the truth that artificial barriers can never block the shared enthusiasm of compatriots from both sides.

A massive number of Taiwan residents still crossed the Strait for markets, business cooperation and career opportunities, Su added.

Lai Tsai-ta, co-founder and CEO of artificial intelligence pharmaceutical startup Metis TechBio Co, shared his journey on the mainland since 2019. Backed by over 10 million yuan ($1.48 million) in subsidies and startup services in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, his company grew into a recognized unicorn before listing on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange in May.

"The mainland offers sincere hospitality, strong policy backup, and a welcoming environment," Lai said, encouraging Taiwan youth to combine their professional skills with local industrial advantages to find their own perfect stage.