Taiwan public opinion says CPC-KMT think tank forum benefits cross-Strait peace

TAIPEI -- The think tank forum between the Communist Party of China (CPC) and the Chinese Kuomintang (KMT), which concluded on Tuesday in Beijing with 15 common opinions on advancing cross-Strait exchanges and cooperation, will contribute to the peaceful development of relations across the Taiwan Strait, according to multiple Taiwan-based political observers and media outlets.

The forum was co-hosted by research institutes affiliated with the two parties and attended by over 100 participants from both sides of the Strait, including think tank members and figures from sectors such as tourism, industry, science and technology, health care, and environmental protection.

An article published by Taiwan's United Daily News on Wednesday said that the forum's agenda, which focuses on livelihoods and industry, aligns with the expectations of most people in Taiwan regarding cross-Strait exchanges.

Chi Hsing, publisher of Taiwan-based magazine The Observer, said the forum's focus demonstrated that the mainland had fulfilled its responsibility in promoting peaceful and integrated development of cross-Strait relations, and continued to introduce measures to support and facilitate exchanges across the Strait.

The 15 common opinions were reached at the forum for promoting the restoration of normal cross-Strait personnel exchanges, strengthening cooperation in emerging industries, as well as advancing cooperation and exchanges in medical and health care, environmental protection, and disaster prevention and mitigation.

Taiwan's China Times stated in an analysis on Wednesday that the forum had conveyed positive signals and expected it would further contribute to enhancing mutual understanding across the Strait.

Teng Che-wei, chairman of the Taipei International Chamber of Commerce, said the proposals represent the public's need for practical exchanges and cooperation between the two sides of the Strait.

The Democratic Progressive Party authorities should recognize the strong public desire for exchanges and cooperation, and take steps to lift unreasonable restrictions on cross-Strait personnel exchanges, he added.

Hsieh Chih-chuan, a commentator in Taiwan, said the forum was held as a valuable channel for communication and consultation under the current circumstances.

"The forum has told people in Taiwan that, rather than spending enormous sums on weapons, it would be better to invest in development and improve livelihoods, allowing people on both sides to work and live in peace and stability and truly enjoy a prosperous and secure life," he said.