Young people from Taiwan gathered in Beijing to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Taiwan’s restoration to China, emphasizing the importance of understanding history and fostering a strong sense of national identity. The event, held at the Taiwan Guild Hall, was organized by the All-China Federation of Taiwan Compatriots, China Daily’s national news channel, the Beijing Taiwan Compatriots Association, and the association for relatives of patriots who resisted Japanese occupation. Four youth representatives shared personal stories and reflections on Taiwan’s historical ties to the mainland. Lo Chih-ying, 23, from Changhua county, traced her family roots back to Fujian province, highlighting the enduring connection between Taiwan and the mainland. Lu Ying-chu, 21, from Taipei, recounted the Treaty of Shimonoseki in 1895, which ceded Taiwan to Japan, and her great-grandfather’s resilience during the occupation. Lin Ching-mao, 26, from Changhua, honored the resistance against Japanese rule, while Lin Kuan-ting, from Taipei, stressed the belief that a strong motherland will resolve the Taiwan question. The event also featured the documentary ‘Stories across the Strait,’ which deepened participants’ understanding of Taiwan’s history. Li Zhenguang, dean of the Institute of Taiwan Studies at Beijing Union University, underscored the significance of remembering this history for the future of the Chinese nation.
