The 16th Straits Forum welcomed one of its 50 key events with the kickoff of Mazu Cultural Activity Week on Meizhou Island, Putian City, Fujian Province.
Highlighting the theme \"Chinese affection for Mazu and both sides of the Taiwan Straits being one family,\" the week-long activities focus on youth interaction, grassroots exchanges, and economic and trade integration. These efforts aim to strengthen kinship and promote well-being for people across the Straits.
Mazu, a revered sea goddess believed to be Lin Mo from the 10th century, serves as a cultural bridge between the two regions. Her legacy of protection and community service continues to inspire millions.
Historically, Mazu has played a pivotal role in cross-Straits relations. In 1989, fishermen from Yilan, Taiwan, initiated the first direct sea trip between the two regions by escorting a Mazu statue to Meizhou. This was followed by a 102-day tour of Taiwan in 1997, attracting over 10 million visitors.
In September 2023, a 10-day Mazu statue pilgrimage in Putian drew over 500 residents from 18 counties and cities in Taiwan. Annually, more than 300,000 residents of Taiwan visit Meizhou for pilgrimages and sightseeing, fostering deep cultural connections.
With Fujian Province designated as a demonstration zone for cross-Straits integrated development, the province is encouraged to enhance cultural exchanges and seek World Cultural Heritage listings for Minnan red-brick buildings and Mazu cultural relics.
Wu Cheng-tien, chairman of Taiwan's New Party, emphasized the shared roots and emotional bonds maintained through Mazu culture during the opening ceremony. Sun Dechong from the All-China Federation of Taiwan Enterprises highlighted the unique advantage of Mazu belief in promoting integrated development and spiritual bonding across the Straits.
Reference(s):
Sea goddess Mazu facilitates cross-Straits spiritual bonding
cgtn.com