TAIPEI (TVBS News) — A small advance team from Shanghai, led by a deputy director of the Shanghai Municipal Taiwan Affairs Office, arrived in Taipei on Friday (Dec. 13) for the upcoming Taipei-Shanghai Twin-City Forum (雙城論壇). This four-member group, all holding work permits, will prepare for the main delegation's visit. Another advance team, expected Saturday, will finalize the logistics, including venue inspections and hotel arrangements, ensuring a smooth forum itinerary.
The Taipei-Shanghai Twin-City Forum will kick off on Tuesday (Dec. 17) in Taipei City. Taiwanese authorities have issued permits for 91 members of the Shanghai delegation to participate in the forum. The event aims to foster cooperation between the two cities, with a focus on municipal exchanges and discussions. Reports revealed that the original Shanghai team consisted of 102 members, including Shanghai Municipal Taiwan Affairs Office Director Jin Mei (金梅) and two deputy directors.
However, Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council (MAC, 陸委會) approved only one deputy director to enter, reducing the delegation to 91 people. The main group will arrive on Sunday and engage in municipal visits, including a stop at the Taipei Dome. The advance teams will meticulously review the main delegation's routes and conduct site surveys over the next two days. Their efforts will ensure that the forum proceeds without a hitch, highlighting the importance of these preliminary visits. As the forum approaches, both cities anticipate productive discussions and strengthened ties.
