31 measures pitched to boost Taiwan ties
Mainland authorities release 31 new measures to enhance cross-Straits ties
Authorities on the Chinese mainland released 31 new measures covering exchanges and cooperation with Taiwan on Wednesday. They take effect immediately.
The measures were unveiled by the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council and the National Development and Reform Commission, after consulting with other departments. They cover several areas of industry, finance, taxation, land use, employment, education, culture and healthcare.
“They are aimed at sharing the opportunities of the mainland’s development with Taiwan compatriots,” a statement from the office said.
The measures include 12 that relate to equal treatment for Taiwan enterprises.
Financial institutions in Taiwan can cooperate with mainland counterparts to provide small payment and credit services for Taiwan compatriots, according to the document.
The measures can help Taiwan businesses reduce their manufacturing and operating costs, speed up transformation and upgrade and expand the domestic market.
There are also 19 measures offering Taiwan people treatment equal to mainland residents in areas including education, starting businesses and working and living on the mainland.
Limits on films and television programs will be lifted.
In another development, An Fengshan, spokesman for the Taiwan Affairs Office, expressed gratitude on Wednesday for the efforts by the Taiwan side to rescue and assist mainland tourists
They are aimed at sharing the opportunities of the mainland’s development with Taiwan compatriots.” Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council
trapped by the February earthquake. Nine mainland tourists were killed and six injured in the magnitude-6.5 quake in Hualien on Feb 6.
The Taiwan side, including the Hualien county government and local rescue teams, made great efforts to save and care for the victims and assist their families, An said at a news conference.
Mainland authorities also initiated an emergency response after the earthquake, offering assistance to families of the victims who wished to travel to Taiwan, An said.
The bodies of the last two mainland tourists were recovered from the ruins of a collapsed building on Sunday.
The mainland closely followed the situation, with a number of organizations sending condolences and offering donations.
According to An, about 23 million yuan ($3.63 million) has been donated.