Youth from Taiwan, Chongqing bond during cross-Strait exchange program

The 34th Cross-Strait Little Peace Angels Exchange Program, a major youth exchange initiative across the Taiwan Strait, concluded on Monday in Southwest China's Chongqing after bringing together 20 pairs of young participants from both sides for five days of cultural and educational activities.

Organized by the All-China Federation of Taiwan Compatriots and its Chongqing municipal branch, the program fostered friendship through shared exploration of natural science, history and local culture while offering participants an opportunity to experience Chongqing.

"Chongqing, a historical and cultural hub in central and western China, is renowned for its unique geological features, rich history and advanced scientific resources," Zheng Ping, vice-president of the All-China Federation of Taiwan Compatriots, said at the opening ceremony.

The ceremony featured cultural performances, including an indigenous dance from Taiwan that captivated the audience with its traditional melodies and energetic choreography.

Throughout the program, participants took part in a variety of activities. A highlight was the "Magical Night" event on Friday at the Chongqing Natural History Museum in Beibei district, where the 40 children from Taiwan and Chongqing explored dinosaur exhibits, learned about Jurassic-era prehistoric ecosystems, searched for fossils, went on treasure hunts and camped beneath dinosaur skeletons.

The group also visited the Chongqing Zoo, the Chongqing China Three Gorges Museum and local landmarks such as Hongya Cave.

For many young participants, the friendships they formed were the most memorable part of the program.

Zhang Ziai, a student from Chongqing, said searching for fossils was her favorite activity.

"Working together to uncover fossils from the rock layers was exhilarating, and the thrill of discovery is something I'll always cherish," she said, adding that the exchange had deepened her understanding of Taiwan's culture.

"What an incredible twist of fate!" said Chang, a student from Nantou, Taiwan, who expressed delight at making new friends from the Chinese mainland while learning the Chongqing dialect and the authentic way to enjoy Chongqing hotpot.

Hwang, another student from Nantou who attended the program for the first time, introduced her hometown's geography to her mainland peers and said she was excited to explore mainland cities and make new friends.

Launched in 1992, the Cross-Strait Little Peace Angels Exchange Program is one of the longest-running and most influential youth exchange programs across the Taiwan Strait. It has hosted 40 exchange events and brought together nearly 3,000 young participants. The 34th edition marked the second time the program has been held in Chongqing, following the fourth edition in 1998.

Contact the writers at dengrui@chinadaily.com.cn