Beijing: The number of Taiwan residents making their first trips to the Chinese mainland increased by 33 percent in July, according to a mainland spokesperson. The rise in visits was accompanied by a 22 percent increase in travel pass applications, with individuals under the age of 45 comprising 72 percent of applicants, as reported by Zhu Fenglian, spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, during a press conference.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the increase in travel is attributed to new policies introduced on July 1, when the mainland began exempting Taiwan residents who had never visited before from paying application fees for their travel passes. This initiative appears to be part of broader efforts to encourage greater interaction and engagement between residents of Taiwan and the mainland.

Zhu Fenglian emphasized the mainland’s commitment to welcoming more Taiwan residents to visit and experience life on the mainland firsthand. She also hinted at future policies aimed at facilitating cross-Strait exchanges, highlighting the importance of such interactions in fostering mutual understanding.

The spokesperson praised the lively cross-Strait exchanges witnessed over the summer in areas such as culture and sports. These exchanges have occurred despite opposition from Taiwan authorities, indicating a strong interest and engagement from the Taiwan community in mainland activities.