A vibrant group of 30 young people from the Taiwan region wrapped up an exciting eight-day visit to the eastern province of Shandong on Friday, marking a notable chapter in cultural exchange. Their journey kicked off on March 28 and took them deep into the heart of traditional heritage on the Chinese mainland.
The delegation, led by Hsiao Hsu-tsen, executive director of the Ma Ying-jeou Culture and Education Foundation in Taiwan, participated in a cross-strait Confucius cultural exchange event and toured historic spots such as Tai'an and Zaozhuang. Among the highlights was a moving visit to the Temple of Confucius in Qufu, where the young visitors paid homage to the ancient sage. One enthusiastic youth shared that while many in the Taiwan region pray for academic success at the temple, he was hoping to fulfill his dream of becoming a civil engineering technician. 😊
During their visit, the group also took part in traditional ceremonies honoring important historical figures and milestones. The flower-wreath-presenting event at the Taierzhuang War Memorial Hall was a tribute to brave heroes whose sacrifices at the Battle of Taierzhuang remain deeply revered. This blend of cultural rituals and modern aspirations underscored the enduring bonds that unite people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait.
Hsiao emphasized, "No matter how external forces may try to interfere, this inherent and close cultural connection cannot be severed." His words encapsulated a powerful message: the shared traditions and values serve as strong links in fostering deeper mutual understanding. Beyond the historical sites, friendly exchanges filled the itinerary, echoing past cultural and sports visits and paving the way for more collaborative programs in the future.
This cultural odyssey not only celebrated tradition but also opened a fresh dialogue between youth on both sides, inspiring new ideas and reinforcing bonds that transcend borders. It’s a reminder that when cultures meet, every interaction holds the promise of a brighter, united future. ✨
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
