The 18th Cross-Straits Forum·Austronesian Culture Academic Forum will be held in Pingtan from June 15 to 17, bringing together experts and scholars to explore the origins of Austronesian peoples and the maritime heritage of Chinese civilization.

Under the theme "The Origins of Austronesian Peoples and the Dawn of Maritime Civilization," the forum aims to deepen academic exchanges on Austronesian culture across the Taiwan Straits and advance research into the roots of China's maritime civilization.

More than 100 scholars, researchers and representatives from cultural heritage institutions from across the Taiwan Straits, as well as Hong Kong and Macao, are expected to attend. The program will include an opening ceremony, keynote speeches, academic presentations and a closing ceremony.

Leading researchers will deliver keynote speeches on topics such as Austronesian origins and ancient genomics. Participants will also visit the China Underwater Archaeology·Pingtan Exhibition and Experience Center, the Pingtan International Research Center for Austronesian Archaeology, and the Keqiutou Site Museum.

The forum is expected to further highlight Pingtan's role as a key area for Austronesian origin studies while providing a premier platform for dialogue and cultural exchange. Organizers say the event will help strengthen people-to-people ties across the Taiwan Straits and promote broader international understanding of China's maritime civilization.