Taiwan artists encouraged to visit Chinese mainland for opportunities: spokesperson

(ECNS) -- The Chinese mainland will always support and encourage cross-Strait cultural exchanges and cooperation, and welcome Taiwan artists to pursue development opportunities here, a Chinese mainland spokesperson said on Wednesday.

Zhu Fenglian, a spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, made the remarks at a press conference in Beijing.

The spokesperson criticized the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP)'s move to obstruct and restrict cross-Strait exchanges and interactions. The DPP has spared no effort in suppressing and hindering Taiwan compatriots' travels to the Chinese mainland, seriously undermining their interests and well-being, she noted.

Zhu revealed that the DPP's investigation and punishment of Taiwan artists are, in fact, an attempt to intensify intimidation against people in Taiwan who support and participate in cross-Strait exchanges, which is completely unpopular among the people.

"Taiwan compatriots, including artists, are Chinese citizens. Their expression of identification with the motherland and opposition to ‘Taiwan independence' separatist activities is a sincere and natural outpouring from the heart, and it is their legitimate right," the spokesperson said.

"We will, as always, support and encourage cross-Strait cultural exchanges and cooperation, welcome them to pursue development opportunities on the Chinese mainland, and take necessary measures to safeguard their legitimate rights and interests," she added.

(By Zhang Dongfang)