Straits Forum

The Straits Forum, now in its 18th edition, is Beijing's primary annual event aimed at fostering people-to-people exchanges with Taiwan across various sectors like culture and economy. Despite tightened restrictions and the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) banning Taiwanese officials from participating, Beijing is actively seeking to expand these interactions. This year's forum is particularly newsworthy as top Beijing official Wang Huning stated that peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait require a "joint answer" from both sides, highlighting the complex and severe geopolitical situation. The event serves as a crucial platform for Beijing's cross-strait engagement strategy, emphasizing dialogue and exchange amidst ongoing political tensions.