At first sight, this free trade zone is working hard to explore a new path for integrated development across the Taiwan Straits.

“Cross-Strait Family Ties: Strengthening Bonds Between Fujian and Taiwan”

Since the 18th National Congress, President Xi Jinping has visited Fujian three times, consistently emphasizing the importance of “cross-strait integrated development.” His commitment to this cause is unwavering.

On the morning of October 16, President Xi visited the Xiamen area of the China (Fujian) Pilot Free Trade Zone, where he reviewed the achievements of the Free Trade Zone’s construction and received briefings on local efforts to expand reform and exploration of new paths for cross-strait integration.

President Xi stressed the need to “take greater strides in exploring new pathways for integrated development across the Taiwan Strait.”

The essence of the Free Trade Zone is to boldly experiment, venture into new territories, and encourage self-initiatives. This includes supporting the accelerated integration of Xiamen and Kinmen, deepening cooperation between Fuzhou and Matsu, and advancing the development of the Pingtan Comprehensive Experimental Zone. Fujian serves as the forefront for deepening cross-strait integration.

Fujian and Taiwan are separated by just 68 nautical miles at their closest point, which positions Fujian uniquely in the broader context of cross-strait relations. It aims to be the first homeland for Taiwanese individuals and businesses, exploring new paths for integration while utilizing its distinctive advantages and shouldering its responsibilities.

Pingtan has been developed specifically due to its ties to Taiwan. President Xi’s 21st visit to Pingtan in November 2014 involved discussions with leaders of Taiwanese enterprises at Chenyun Technology (Pingtan) Co., Ltd. He remarked, “People on both sides of the strait share common ancestry and roots, and there’s no reason we shouldn’t work together towards mutual development and integration.” He warmly welcomed more Taiwanese companies to develop on the mainland.

Fujian is the ancestral home to many Taiwanese compatriots, making its role in enhancing cross-strait friendship and welfare particularly significant. During his visit in March 2021, President Xi encouraged the people of Fujian to “take greater strides in exploring new paths for cross-strait integrated development” and urged them to promote integration through communication, benefits, and emotional ties.

How can Fujian do a better job of integrating development across the strait? Last year, the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China and the State Council issued their first document dedicated to deepening cross-strait integrated development, titled “Opinions on Supporting Fujian in Exploring New Pathways for Cross-Strait Integrated Development and Constructing a Demonstration Zone.”

This document imposes significant political responsibilities and offers immense historical opportunities for Fujian.

In pursuit of integration and exploration of new pathways, Fujian has made considerable progress:
– Economic integration has advanced, with the operation of four “mini-three links” routes carrying over 25.39 million passengers and the water supply project to Kinmen delivering over 36 million tons of water, along with 226 jointly established standards.
– Social integration has widened, with Fuzhou providing 1,050 public rental housing units for Taiwanese individuals, over 3,700 Taiwanese compatriots participating in basic medical insurance, and more than 80 employment and entrepreneurial bases for Taiwanese youth throughout the province.
– Emotional bonds have deepened, with 340,000 Taiwanese citizens participating in the Cross-Strait Forum and 36,000 youth from both sides appearing at the Cross-Strait Youth Festival, featuring over 200 major events related to Taiwan each year.

The waters that connect the two sides symbolize deeper ties among compatriots. Today, Fujian has become one of the most active regions for cross-strait exchanges, fostering warm emotional connections and close economic cooperation.

Leveraging its advantages, Fujian is taking the lead in this initiative. “Build a strong demonstration zone for cross-strait integrated development,” President Xi expressed with high hopes.

Establishing this demonstration zone is not only a noble cause but also a significant opportunity aimed at enhancing the emotional connections and welfare of the people, ensuring a better life for all.

On the afternoon of October 15, President Xi visited the Guandi Cultural Industry Park in Dongshan County, Zhangzhou, where he was briefed on efforts to protect cultural heritage and promote cross-strait cultural exchanges. He emphasized that cultural heritage is a valuable asset left by our ancestors that must be protected and passed down.

“Promoting cultural exchanges across the strait, jointly advocating Chinese culture, and enhancing ethnonational, cultural, and national identity among our Taiwanese compatriots are essential to the integration process,” he added.

From the perspective of the overall interests and long-term welfare of the Chinese nation, and focusing on the larger context of cross-strait relations, President Xi profoundly stated: “As long as it benefits the welfare of our Taiwanese compatriots, promotes peaceful development of cross-strait relations, and safeguards the overall interests of the Chinese nation, we will do our utmost to ensure that the broader Taiwanese community reaps more benefits from peaceful cross-strait development, allowing all Chinese people to lead better lives.”

“Compatriots across the strait are indeed one family. We should maintain frequent exchanges, drawing closer with each interaction. We will implement stronger measures to actively promote cross-strait exchanges, allowing our compatriots to connect on deeper levels and build trust through these interactions.”

With shared roots and kinship ties, peaceful and integrated development of cross-strait relations is a vital pathway toward peaceful reunification. Fujian continues to make significant strides in exploring new avenues for cross-strait integration.