Zhang Linghe, a Chinese mainland actor, addressed the 18th Straits Forum on June 13, extending a warm invitation to Taiwan compatriots to visit the mainland.
Key Details
- On June 13, Chinese mainland actor Zhang Linghe addressed the 18th Straits Forum, encouraging Taiwan compatriots to visit the mainland and experience its development firsthand.
- Zhang greeted the audience in Minnan dialect, receiving applause, as reported by Taiwan media ET Today.
- Taiwan media outlets including CTV News and United Daily News reported on Zhang's call for strengthened cross-Straits exchanges.
Statements
"I encourage more compatriots in the island to cross the Straits, come and walk around, and feel the vitality and energy of the mainland - moving from hearsay to sight, from observation to involvement."
Regarding the historical drama "Pursuit of Jade," in which he starred, Zhang noted that the series incorporated rich elements of traditional Chinese culture, aesthetic principles, and patriotic sentiments. He said:
"Creators on both sides of the Straits share the same aesthetic sensibilities and a common cultural context. People on both sides come from the same roots and are bound by shared heritage, with cultural ties that cannot be severed."
Zhang expressed hope for more extensive exchanges and collaborations in film, music, and culture across the Straits:
"In the future, young people on both sides should have more opportunities to connect, communicate, and engage with each other."
Background
On April 22, Zhang Han, spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, responded to a reporter's question regarding Kuomintang chairperson Cheng Li-wun's revelation that young people who visited the mainland suggested inviting Zhang Linghe to Taiwan. Zhang Han stated that this demonstrates the role of film and TV productions in narrowing the psychological distance between compatriots on both sides, and reiterated support for cross-Straits cultural exchanges.