Top Political Advisor Calls for Enhanced Cultural Cooperation Across Taiwan Strait

China’s top political advisor, Wang Huning, on Tuesday called for renewed efforts to promote cultural cooperation across the Taiwan Straits, emphasizing the shared heritage and unity of people on both sides. Meeting with delegates from Taiwan who traveled to Beijing for the second Cross-Straits Chinese Culture Summit, Wang highlighted the pivotal role of culture in fostering deeper ties and mutual understanding.

Wang, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, underlined that Chinese culture forms the “root and soul” of the Chinese people, regardless of geographical separation. He urged participants to uphold cultural confidence and to carry forward the enduring spirit of their shared heritage, calling upon both sides to jointly shoulder the “historic responsibility” of rejuvenating the Chinese nation.

Efforts to enhance cross-Straits exchanges were a key focus of Wang’s remarks. He proposed the expansion of cultural dialogue and collaboration across various sectors, with the goal of cultivating a stronger sense of community and spiritual kinship among compatriots. Wang further emphasized the importance of promoting patriotism and strengthening the national spirit as central themes in these interactions.

Marking the 80th anniversary of critical historical milestones—the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, along with the recovery of Taiwan—Wang called for unwavering adherence to the one-China principle and the 1992 Consensus. He reiterated firm opposition to any moves toward “Taiwan independence,” while stressing the need for unity in facing external challenges and safeguarding national interests.

Attendees from Taiwan, including Hung Hsiu-chu, former chairperson of the Chinese Kuomintang party, expressed strong pride and confidence in their Chinese cultural identity. They echoed calls for all compatriots across the Straits to uphold the one-China principle and oppose separatist movements. The delegates voiced support for strengthening cultural exchanges, promoting peaceful reunification, and contributing to the broader goal of national rejuvenation.

The summit in Beijing concluded with a collective pledge from participants on both sides to advance cultural cooperation and deepen the bonds that tie people together across the Taiwan Straits, reflecting ongoing efforts to foster harmony and unity for the future.