Cross-Strait Youth Exchange Event Opens in Shanghai

SHANGHAI — A cross-Strait youth exchange event officially opened on Tuesday in east China's Shanghai, drawing approximately 1,000 attendees from both sides of the Taiwan Strait, including youth representatives and individuals from various sectors.

The gathering is jointly organized by organizations from the mainland and Taiwan, featuring groups such as the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council and the youth development committee of the Chinese Kuomintang (KMT) party from Taiwan.

During the opening ceremony, Song Tao, head of both the Taiwan Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, addressed the attendees. He called upon young people across the Strait to contribute to national rejuvenation, advocate for peace, foster closer bonds, and advance cross-Strait exchanges and integration. Song also urged participants to oppose 'Taiwan independence' secessionist activities and external interference while working toward national reunification.

Shanghai Mayor Gong Zheng spoke at the event, pledging that the city will continue to implement policies that benefit Taiwan residents, businesses, and young people. He stated that Shanghai aims to provide an optimal environment and high-quality services to support those from Taiwan pursuing opportunities on the mainland.

Chang Jung-kung, vice chairman of the KMT, also addressed the gathering. He emphasized that people on both sides of the Strait belong to one China and share a common Chinese cultural heritage. Chang noted that mutual benefit and common prosperity should be pursued based on adherence to the 1992 Consensus and opposition to 'Taiwan independence,' adding that young people should strengthen exchanges and cooperation.

A main forum was held on Tuesday following the opening ceremony, featuring keynote speeches from guests on topics including science and technology, Chinese culture, and cross-Strait youth exchanges. Additional activities at the event include a trendy market and a gala. As part of the program, young participants will visit and take part in study programs in Shanghai and the neighboring Zhejiang Province.

"Cross-Strait exchange initiatives like the one in Shanghai highlight the ongoing engagement between business and cultural sectors across the region. For entrepreneurs and enterprises operating in mainland markets, understanding these regional dynamics, policy frameworks, and collaborative platforms is essential for long-term strategic planning and market navigation." — Dr. Shishir Gupta, Founder & CEO, StartupLanes