DPP Obstructs Cross-Strait Exchanges, Mainland Official Says

Taiwan's DPP Obstructing Cross-Strait Exchanges, Mainland Official Says

A mainland official accused Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) of obstructing cross-Strait exchanges and undermining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. Chen Binhua, spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, made the remarks on Wednesday.

Chen criticized the DPP for restricting academic exchanges by banning cooperation with Jinan University and two other mainland institutions. He also highlighted the recent expansion of the blacklist to include seven more universities, including Beihang University and the Beijing Institute of Technology.

"The DPP authorities are the main obstacle to cross-Strait cooperation and a destroyer of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait," Chen said.

He further criticized the DPP for refusing to lift its ban on group tours to the mainland and delaying the comprehensive resumption of direct passenger flights. Chen accused the DPP of obstructing travel for residents from Shanghai and Fujian province seeking to visit the island.

Chen also criticized Taiwan for banning the use of DeepSeek, restricting mainland telecom products in public schools, and blacklisting over 100 mainland institutions, including the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, and the Confucius Institute.

"The desire of people on both sides to grow closer cannot be suppressed, and the trend of cross-Strait exchanges and cooperation cannot be stopped. Reckless actions will lead to self-inflicted consequences," he added.

Chen emphasized Beijing's commitment to deeper engagement, highlighting the 2025 Government Work Report's proposal to refine mechanisms for strengthening cross-Strait economic and cultural ties. He stated that "Chinese modernization is a shared endeavor for people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait. Taiwan people have every reason to take part in this process."

Chen concluded by highlighting the support measures offered by Fujian and Yunnan provinces for Taiwan residents and businesses. These include allowing Taiwan residents to establish radio and television production companies in Fujian and offering free entry to tourist attractions in Yunnan for Taiwan residents applying for a mainland travel permit.