On October 15th, 2023, the 2024 Cross-Strait Traditional Chinese Culture and Modernization Exchange Program kicked off in Beijing. That evening, the Chairman of the Central Committee of the China Democratic League, Cai Dafu, met with the visiting delegation, accompanied by Gao Youdong, the Vice Chairman of the Central Committee.

Cai Dafu began by extending a warm welcome to the delegation on behalf of the China Democratic League and the Ye Shengtao Research Association. He provided a brief overview of the history and current development of the China Democratic League, highlighting its role as a participating party under the leadership of the Communist Party of China in the multi-party cooperation and political consultation system. He emphasized that promoting the complete reunification of the country, firmly opposing “Taiwan independence,” and fostering peaceful development of cross-strait relations are fundamental tasks outlined in the League’s charter and the persistent efforts of its members.

In his remarks, Cai Dafu stressed the importance of upholding national unity as the Chinese nation moves towards modernization and the great rejuvenation of China. He encouraged using the exchange program as an opportunity to enhance interactions and integration, particularly among the youth from both sides of the Taiwan Strait, to build trust and mutual support, foster common development, benefit the people, and contribute to the creation of a shared future.

During his address, Gao Youdong remarked that all people across the Taiwan Strait are Chinese, and although the strait separates them, it cannot sever their deep familial bonds. He expressed confidence that this event would not only deepen mutual understanding and friendship between compatriots on both sides but also foster cultural consensus and create more opportunities for collaboration.

Members of the delegation shared their experiences, expressing gratitude for the thoughtful organization and warm hospitality they received. They emphasized their hope to use cultural exchanges as a starting point to broaden the range of interactions, strengthen exchanges, and promote the peaceful development of cross-strait relations.

This exchange program is organized by the Central Committee of the China Democratic League, co-organized by the Ye Shengtao Research Association, and hosted by the Gansu Provincial Committee of the China Democratic League and the Dunhuang Research Institute. It will take place from October 15th to 19th in Beijing and Gansu. Eighteen participants from various fields, including Dunhuang research experts, university faculty, students, and youth representatives from Taiwan, are taking part in the activities. During their visit, the delegation will tour significant sites such as the Palace Museum, Peking University, the Dunhuang Museum, Dunhuang Bookstore, and the Mogao Caves, as well as hold a seminar at the Dunhuang Research Institute.