On October 16, the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council held a routine press conference. During the event, a reporter inquired about the recent implementation of the first local legislation in the cultural sector related to Taiwan, specifically the “Fujian Province Archives Protection Regulation on Cross-Strait Relations,” which took effect on October 1.
Chen Binhua, spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office, responded that on July 24 of this year, the Fujian Provincial People’s Congress Standing Committee passed the regulation, which officially went into effect on October 1. This marks the first piece of local legislation in mainland China specifically addressing cultural issues related to Taiwan, and it is also the first provincial-level legislation following the release of the policy by the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China and the State Council aimed at supporting Fujian’s exploration of new paths for cross-strait integration and the establishment of a demonstration zone for integrated development.
Chen highlighted that Fujian is the ancestral homeland for many Taiwanese people. Over the years of exchanges between Fujian and Taiwan, a wealth of archives documenting their relationship has accumulated. These documents reflect the historical connections between the two sides, showcase the progression of cross-strait interactions, and embody the shared memory of the Chinese nation. They serve as proof of the common roots, culture, and heritage that link both sides of the Taiwan Strait. Currently, a significant number of these archives remain scattered in the community, underscoring the need for enhanced protection and utilization through legislative means.
Chen emphasized that the regulation consists of 25 articles that outline the definition and scope of the cross-strait archives, as well as stipulating the legislative objectives, principles of protection, support mechanisms, responsibilities among stakeholders, and usage guidelines. Notably, in terms of utilization and protection, the regulation proposes measures to promote resource sharing, increase research and development efforts, and advance cross-strait exchanges and cooperation. This approach is expected to deepen the revitalization of Fujian-Taiwan relationship archives, safeguard the shared bloodlines, culture, and history of both sides, enhance emotional connections among compatriots, and strengthen their national, ethnic, and cultural identities, thus carrying significant importance.
