In a recent statement, a spokesperson from the mainland voiced strong criticism towards Taiwan authorities, accusing them of using weak excuses to hinder cross-Strait tourism and exchanges. According to Zhu Fenglian, spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, these actions disregard public opinion and the interests of Taiwan residents.
Zhu made these remarks in response to media inquiries about recent inspection tour applications submitted by tourism operators in Fujian Province and Shanghai Municipality. These applications were sent shortly after the mainland announced the resumption of Taiwan group tour services for residents of Fujian and Shanghai in January.
However, Taiwan authorities have claimed that matters related to mainland tourism bound for Taiwan, including the inspection tours in question, should first be discussed by the Taiwan Strait Tourism Association and the mainland-based Association for Tourism Exchange Across the Taiwan Straits.
\"These claims are just an excuse to prevent mainland tourists from visiting Taiwan,\" Zhu emphasized. She noted that these two organizations will be able to discuss arrangements for cross-Strait tourism once it resumes.
The mainland's proactive efforts to restore cross-Strait tourism have been welcomed by Taiwan’s tourism industry and the general public. However, the DPP authorities' negative stance and attempts to block these moves have dampened industry expectations.
Zhu concluded by stating that if the DPP authorities continue to selfishly obstruct cross-Strait exchanges, they will inevitably lose more public support and face the consequences of their actions.
Reference(s):
Mainland slams Taiwan's DPP for obstructing cross-Straits tourism
cgtn.com
