The Times Australia
News From Asia

.

The 17th Straits Forum Held in Xiamen, China: Promoting Cross-Strait Folk Exchanges and Integrated Development

XIAMEN, CHINA - Media OutReach Newswire - 18 June 2025 - The opening ceremony of the 17th Straits Forum was held in the morning of the 15th in Xiamen City, Fujian Province, China.

As the largest-scaled, widest-ranging and most influential folk exchange event across the Taiwan Strait, guests from both sides of the Taiwan Strait gathered together to discuss the beautiful vision of cross-Strait exchanges and cooperation.

1

This session of the Straits Forum focused on the theme of "Expanding Folk Exchanges and Deepening Integrated Development". It set up four major sections, namely grassroots exchanges, youth exchanges, cultural exchanges, and economic exchanges, with 56 series of activities arranged. The main venue of the forum was in Xiamen, while related activities were held in relevant prefecture-level cities in Fujian and the Pingtan Comprehensive Experimental Zone. More than 7,000 people from all walks of life in Taiwan were invited to participate.

Ma Ying-jeou, the former chairperson of the Kuomintang who attends the Straits Forum for the first time, stated in his speech at the meeting that the peaceful development of cross-Strait relations is the common aspiration of people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait. The natural bond of Chinese people on both sides, who share the same roots and origin, cannot be severed, and non-governmental exchanges across the Strait are unstoppable.

Currently, Fujian is steadfastly expanding economic and trade cooperation across the Taiwan Strait, deepening folk exchanges between Fujian and Taiwan, and enhancing the well-being of Taiwan compatriots, so as to make new contributions to the great cause of promoting the reunification of the motherland. Zhou Zuyi, Secretary of the Fujian Provincial Committee of the Communist Party of China, said, "We warmly welcome our Taiwan compatriots to actively participate in building the Cross-Strait Integrated Development Demonstration Zone. Let us move forward together, work hand in hand, and jointly seize development opportunities to share the fruits of integration"

Xiamen has earnestly implemented the Opinions of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China and the State Council on Supporting Fujian in Exploring a New Path for Cross-Strait Integrated Development and Building a Cross-Strait Integrated Development Demonstration Zone. It continues to take the lead in piloting innovations for cross-strait integrated development, promoting integration through connectivity, preferential policies, and emotional bonds, so as to create more development opportunities and broader space for Taiwan compatriots.

It is reported that the Straits Forum has been successfully held for 16 sessions, with nearly 800 activities of various types carried out. A total of more than 350,000 person-times of compatriots from both sides of the Taiwan Strait have participated, among whom over 140,000 person-times are Taiwan compatriots. The Straits Forum has effectively played an important role in expanding cross-Strait folk exchanges and deepening cross-Strait integrated development.

Hashtag: #ChineseHeadlinesNewMedia

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Times Magazine

Headless CMS in Digital Twins and 3D Product Experiences

Image by freepik As the metaverse becomes more advanced and accessible, it's clear that multiple sectors will use digital twins and 3D product experiences to visualize, connect, and streamline efforts better. A digital twin is a virtual replica of ...

The Decline of Hyper-Casual: How Mid-Core Mobile Games Took Over in 2025

In recent years, the mobile gaming landscape has undergone a significant transformation, with mid-core mobile games emerging as the dominant force in app stores by 2025. This shift is underpinned by changing user habits and evolving monetization tr...

Understanding ITIL 4 and PRINCE2 Project Management Synergy

Key Highlights ITIL 4 focuses on IT service management, emphasising continual improvement and value creation through modern digital transformation approaches. PRINCE2 project management supports systematic planning and execution of projects wit...

What AI Adoption Means for the Future of Workplace Risk Management

Image by freepik As industrial operations become more complex and fast-paced, the risks faced by workers and employers alike continue to grow. Traditional safety models—reliant on manual oversight, reactive investigations, and standardised checklist...

From Beach Bops to Alpine Anthems: Your Sonos Survival Guide for a Long Weekend Escape

Alright, fellow adventurers and relaxation enthusiasts! So, you've packed your bags, charged your devices, and mentally prepared for that glorious King's Birthday long weekend. But hold on, are you really ready? Because a true long weekend warrior kn...

Effective Commercial Pest Control Solutions for a Safer Workplace

Keeping a workplace clean, safe, and free from pests is essential for maintaining productivity, protecting employee health, and upholding a company's reputation. Pests pose health risks, can cause structural damage, and can lead to serious legal an...

The Times Features

Exploring the Curriculum at a Modern Junior School in Melbourne

Key Highlights The curriculum at junior schools emphasises whole-person development, catering to children’s physical, emotional, and intellectual needs. It ensures early year...

Distressed by all the bad news? Here’s how to stay informed but still look after yourself

If you’re feeling like the news is particularly bad at the moment, you’re not alone. But many of us can’t look away – and don’t want to. Engaging with news can help us make ...

The Role of Your GP in Creating a Chronic Disease Management Plan That Works

Living with a long-term condition, whether that is diabetes, asthma, arthritis or heart disease, means making hundreds of small decisions every day. You plan your diet against m...

Troubleshooting Flickering Lights: A Comprehensive Guide for Homeowners

Image by rawpixel.com on Freepik Effectively addressing flickering lights in your home is more than just a matter of convenience; it's a pivotal aspect of both home safety and en...

My shins hurt after running. Could it be shin splints?

If you’ve started running for the first time, started again after a break, or your workout is more intense, you might have felt it. A dull, nagging ache down your shins after...

Metal Roof Replacement Cost Per Square Metre in 2025: A Comprehensive Guide for Australian Homeowners

In recent years, the trend of installing metal roofs has surged across Australia. With their reputation for being both robust and visually appealing, it's easy to understand thei...