PFP head James Soong in Shanghai for forum
By Jiao Xiaoyang (China Daily)
Updated: 2005-09-15 06:13

The forum is regarded as a step towards realizing the consensus reached between Soong and CPC Central Committee General Secretary Hu Jintao during their talks in Beijing in May. Both parties agreed to maintain dialogue.

The mainland has taken a series of concrete steps to facilitate cross-Straits business and exchanges of personnel since Soong's visit in May and an earlier visit by the then Kuomintang Chairman Lien Chan.

The mainland waived the import taxes on 15 kinds of Taiwan fruits starting from August 1, in addition to continued efforts to smooth passenger transport and chartered freight flights across the Straits, and simplify Taiwan compatriots' entry into and exit of mainland.

The mainland education authorities have equalized tuition fees for Taiwan students studying in mainland universities, and are considering offering special scholarships for Taiwan students studying in mainland colleges.

"There are still some issues that need further efforts from both sides, and the forum in Shanghai will provide a good opportunity for discussion," PFP Secretary-General Chin Chin-sheng was quoted by Taiwan local media as saying prior to the Shanghai trip.