The 10th Common Homeland Forum was held on Dec. 12 in Pingtan, an island with the closest geographical proximity on the Chinese mainland to Taiwan. More than 200 representatives from all walks of life from both sides of the Strait attended the event. Many participants expressed that the exchange platform that the forum provided has injected new impetus into the exploration of integrative development across the Taiwan Straits, and it has also provided more Taiwan compatriots with an opportunity to walk into Pingtan and learn about it.

Wu Cheng-tien: looking forward to returning to the mainland by train

Wu Cheng-tien, chairman of Taiwan's New Party

Wu Cheng-tien, chairman of Taiwan's New Party, said in his address that the theme of the forum "Good Life, Good Future" made it clear that Pingtan’s vision is to build into a common homeland for compatriots on both sides of the Straits. He called on Taiwan compatriots to work together to promote peaceful reunification. Making enormous strides in development, Pingtan has a promising future. "I am truly looking forward to the day when I can return to the mainland by train soon."

Zheng Boyu: making Pingtan known 

Zheng Boyu from Taiwan is working in the Cross-Straits Youth Exchange Association. This year marks his seventh time participating in the event. As an old friend of the forum, he invites young people from Taiwan in different fields to Pingtan every year, using the platform to find entrepreneurial and employment opportunities in Pingtan. He said: "The forum can make more Taiwan youngsters know about Pingtan. Compared with other places on the mainland, Pingtan is the closest to the island of Taiwan and enjoys a geographical advantage."

Lu Zhilin: to start over with strengthened confidence

It was the first time Lu Zhilin from Taiwan attended the forum. This May, he set up a film and television company in Pingtan. With the IM Youth Film Festival and Common Homeland Forum, he has more confidence in Pingtan's future development. "Thanks to the pro-Taiwan policy in Pingtan, it’s a big trend that more compatriots from Taiwan will come here for opportunities.

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