On December 23, former Kuomintang chairman Ma Ying-jeou led a group of students from Taiwan on a visit to the Du Fu Cottage Museum in Sichuan Province, southwest China. The museum is dedicated to Du Fu, a renowned Chinese poet from the Tang Dynasty, whose works are celebrated for their profound cultural and historical significance.
During the visit, Ma emphasized the enduring importance of Chinese culture and heritage. He expressed concern over what he described as the “de-Sinicization” efforts in Taiwan, attributing this trend to political manipulations by the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP). Ma stressed that it is the responsibility of the current generation to preserve and promote the rich cultural traditions that have shaped the Chinese nation.
“Chinese culture is the cornerstone of our identity,” Ma stated. “We must ensure that the younger generations understand and appreciate the heritage that unites us.” His remarks resonated with the students, who engaged in discussions about the role of cultural education in fostering cross-strait understanding.
The visit to the Du Fu Cottage Museum served as a cultural immersion experience for the students, highlighting the shared history and literary accomplishments that link people across the Taiwan Strait. The museum, located in the city of Chengdu, stands as a tribute to Du Fu’s legacy and his contributions to Chinese literature.
Ma’s visit is seen by observers as an effort to strengthen cultural ties and encourage dialogue amid ongoing political tensions. By advocating for a renewed focus on cultural heritage, he hopes to bridge gaps and promote a sense of shared identity among people in the Taiwan region and the Chinese mainland.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
