Hey there, globe-trotters! 🌏 Ever dreamt of exploring the vibrant culture across the Taiwan Strait? Well, there's some buzz on that front! The Chinese mainland is encouraging Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities to roll out the welcome mat and make it smoother for travelers to hop between the two regions. 🛫🛬
Chen Binhua, spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, shared at a recent press conference that the mainland is super excited to see residents, especially from bustling Shanghai, heading over to Taiwan soon. This comes after the announcement at the 2024 Shanghai-Taipei City Forum about group tours for Shanghai residents to Taiwan. 🏙️🤝🏝️
But here's the snag: according to Chen, policies laid down by the DPP are putting a damper on these travel plans. He emphasized that the DPP should ditch these roadblocks ASAP to boost exchange and cooperation across the Strait. 🚧❌➡️🌉
Fun fact (or not-so-fun): The DPP lifted a ban on group tours to the mainland in March but flipped the script in June, reimposing restrictions and keeping a Level-Orange alert for travel to the mainland. Talk about mixed signals! 🔄🚦
Chen called on the DPP to listen up to the tourism industry's concerns and the island's residents, taking real steps to make traveling to the mainland a breeze for them. ✨🌬️
And for those planning winter vacays or Spring Festival trips, there's good news! Mainland authorities have set plans in motion, instructing airlines and airports to level up their services for cross-Strait travelers. Think better flights and more convenience. Yes, please! ✈️🎉
The mainland is keen to meet the needs of travelers from both sides, especially those wanting family reunions or visits during the holidays. Support for increased flights? It's on the agenda! Chen's message is clear: Let's make cross-Strait travel happen! ❤️👪
Reference(s):
Mainland urges Taiwan's DPP not to obstruct cross-Straits tourism
cgtn.com
