Youth exchange ideas at cross-Strait event

Taiwan young people participating in a cross-Strait exchange event have expressed their anticipation for development opportunities on the Chinese mainland.

The 6th Cross-Strait Youth East Lake Forum was held in Wuhan, Hubei province, on Friday, where over 400 youths from both sides gathered to exchange ideas and explore avenues for growth.

"The vast stage of the mainland allows me to see my infinite possibilities," said Lai Yen-chun, 34, who is currently a law teacher at Zhongnan University of Economics and Law in Hubei.

She came to Wuhan in 2009 for her studies, marking her first visit to the mainland. During her master's program, she passed the mainland's judicial examination, becoming the first Taiwan practicing lawyer in Hubei.

After completing her doctoral studies, Lai decided to remain in Wuhan. She also provides legal advisory and dispute resolution services to Taiwan compatriots on the mainland.

"I rarely tell others that I am from Taiwan, because we are all Chinese," said Lai, who often shares her experience with other young people from the island.

Lee Fang-chung, 30, an intern at a law firm in Hubei, has been traveling between Taiwan and the mainland since the age of four due to his father's business in Guangdong province.

"I see the significant differences between the two places. For instance, Taiwan's relatively minor changes compared to the tremendous transformations on the mainland. I like to step out of my comfort zone and embrace the challenges and opportunities on the mainland," he said.

Considering staying in Wuhan, Lee said he plans to pursue a legal career as cross-Strait integration increases, anticipating more Taiwan investments and job opportunities, where he can provide relevant legal services.

On Friday afternoon, a special recruitment event targeting Taiwan youth for internships and employment opportunities was held in Wuhan. Over 50 companies offered more than 1,000 positions.

Wang Jyun-wei, 22, a finance major at Zhongnan University of Economics and Law, found an internship at a mainland bank in July and August. After graduation, he will continue to pursue a master's degree on the mainland.

"My parents encouraged me to explore various cities on the mainland. I will seek jobs on the mainland as it offers more opportunities and prospects," he said. As a single child from Taichung, Taiwan, he is considering staying in Guangdong due to its coastal location and convenient transportation links with Taiwan.

The forum also included cultural visits, and bike and ship tours in Wuhan, fostering cross-Strait exchanges and mutual understanding among young people.

Chang Yuan-xi, a freshman student from Tunghai University in Taiwan, who is visiting the mainland for the first time, said: "My family thinks mainland people are very friendly and enthusiastic toward us. I learned about the mainland through TV programs, and I plan to study on the mainland in the future."