The 2023 Cross-Strait Rural Development Forum takes place in Anji county, Huzhou on July 19. [Photo/WeChat account: huzhoufabu]

The 2023 Cross-Strait Rural Development Forum took place in Anji county, Huzhou, on July 19.

The forum played a major role in promoting integrated development across the Taiwan Strait, with a particular focus on rural areas.

Coinciding with the forum, a government delegation from Taiwan's Nantou county visited Huzhou from July 18 to 19, further strengthening cross-Strait exchanges and cooperation.

During the opening ceremony, Chen Hao, Party chief of Huzhou, expressed his hope that the forum would mark a new starting point for deeper exchanges and collaboration between Huzhou and Nantou. He enthusiastically encouraged Taiwan youth to venture to Huzhou, emphasizing the city's potential for innovation and entrepreneurship. Chen believed that by sharing development opportunities, they can collectively create a better future.

Hsu Shu-hua, head of Nantou county, reflected on her previous visit to Huzhou in 2015. She was captivated by the local customs and practices and was delighted to witness the tremendous positive changes within the city upon her return. Hsu commended the remarkable development momentum in both urban and rural areas of Huzhou, which serves as an inspiration for others.

Hsu emphasized the forum's crucial role as a platform to deepen cross-Strait exchanges and cooperation, especially in the current situation. She extended a warm invitation to all attendees, encouraging them to explore the captivating natural beauty and diverse cultures of Nantou, while also indulging in the region's exquisite local agricultural delights.

In attendance at the event were Hong Hupeng, mayor of Huzhou, Ma Xiaoguang, vice-chairman of the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Straits, and Zhu Linsen, director of the Zhejiang Provincial Taiwan Affairs Office.