Former Kuomintang chairman Ma Ying-jeou is on an 11-day visit to the Chinese mainland, accompanied by 20 students from Taiwan. The group arrived in Guangdong Province on Monday, where they learned about the country's rich history and rapid economic advancements, while also nurturing friendships among youth from both sides of the strait. Huang Yichang has more.

Ma Ying-jeou's arrival on the Chinese mainland on Monday afternoon has brought widespread attention. Behind him, the 20 students accompanying him also hold great significance during this trip.

MA YING-JEOU, Former Chairman, Chinese Kuomintang Party "Promoting exchanges between students from both sides of the Strait is the most important goal of my trip and also the focus of my efforts."

Their first destination, Guangdong, a place with a rich revolutionary history and a hub of high-tech. At Dr. Sun Yat-sen's former residence, Ma and the students reflected on Sun's dedication to overthrowing the imperial regime and building a new China.

"Dr. Sun Yat-sen is a great personality who influences many generations. I hope people on both sides of the Strait remember his last words: Peace, struggle, save China."

At the Huanghuagang Martyrs' Cemetery, where martyrs sacrificed their lives in the struggle for the revolution, Ma was moved to tears.

"I am truly moved by the spirit dedicated by these revolutionary martyrs."

The students immerse themselves in the achievements at the forefront of the country's reform and opening-up.

TANG YI-XIANG, Student from Taiwan "What I am most interested in is the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge because I am studying marine engineering. Yesterday, I finally had the chance to witness the world's most magnificent sea-crossing bridge."

WAN YU-MING, Student from Taiwan "My favorite is the drone light show, especially the baseball pattern."

HUANG YICHANG, Guangzhou "Apart from experiencing the wonders of technology as well as history and heritage, a major purpose of this trip is expanding student exchanges. The first student exchange activity will take place at the Guangzhou Sun Yat-Sen University, which is right behind me."

Upon their first meeting, it's obvious the lively energy flowing from their enthusiastic communications.

Just as Mr Ma expressed in no uncertain terms that enhanced dialogue among the youth would contribute to building lasting friendships.

"Although the time spent together was short, everyone exchanged WeChat contacts quickly, establishing a connection with no outside effort. With shared language and similar ages, they easily communicated effortlessly."

We couldn't make out what they were saying, but their laughter and cheerful voices revealed a genuine bond.

FU LILI, Student from the Chinese Mainland "I have made three friends just now, one of them also studies piano which is the same as me. I hope to have a deeper communication with them."

As a popular song was sung in the room, students on both sides couldn't help but to sing along with such a familiar melody they both knew so well. A shared culture and language can always transcend geographic boundaries, creating a stronger connection between each other.

Link to the report: https://news.cgtn.com/news/2024-04-04/VHJhbnNjcmlwdDc4MDc0/index.html