Fuzhou, the capital of southeast China's Fujian Province, launched a cross-strait cultural carnival during the May Day holiday, attracting visitors from both sides of the Taiwan Strait to revel in the festivities.
The carnival unfolded at a historical and cultural block in Lianjiang County, Fuzhou, where an array of performances highlighted local culture and the deep ties across the Strait, serving as a rich cultural feast for holidaymakers.
"Strolling through the ancient streets, with the old buildings on both sides and intangible heritage performances all around, it feels like traveling back in time. It also reminds you that people on both sides of the Strait share the same roots and the same cultural lineage," said Zhang Chuanzhen, a Taiwan compatriot.
In addition to stage performances, the block also featured intangible cultural heritage displays, cultural and creative markets, and hands-on craft experience activities. The immersive and interactive setting invited visitors to explore the history, take in the scenery, and savor the culture.
"We are dedicated to allowing everyone to experience the breadth and depth of Chinese culture, and to strengthen the sense of shared cultural identity across the Strait. Going forward, Lianjiang County will continue to innovate forms of cultural exchanges and build a bridge for heart-to-heart communication between compatriots on both sides of the Strait, especially among the younger generations," said Ren Yong, director of the Lianjiang County Cultural Center.
Fujian holds May Day holiday cultural carnival to entertain visitors across Taiwan Strait
U.S. President Donald Trump warned on Saturday that there was still the possibility of restarting strikes on Iran if Tehran misbehaves, while the Iranian military responded that its forces remain fully prepared to counter any new "adventures or foolishness" from Washington.
Asked if he might restart strikes on Iran before boarding a flight to Miami from Florida, Trump replied "If they misbehave, if they do something bad, right now we'll see. But it's a possibility that could happen."
According to the semi-official Fars news agency, Jafar Asadi, a senior military officer in Iran's Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, said on Saturday that a renewed conflict between Iran and the United States is "likely," as evidence shows the United States is not committed to any agreements or treaties. But Iran's armed forces are in full readiness for any renewed adventurism and miscalculation by the United State, he said.
Also on Saturday, Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi confirmed that Iran has submitted a proposal to the United States through mediator Pakistan, which calls for a permanent end to hostilities.
He said that the ball is now in America's court, and it must choose whether to pursue diplomatic channels or continue with confrontation.
Iran is prepared for both scenarios to safeguard its own interests and national security, and in any case, Iran will always maintain its pessimism and distrust of America and its honesty in the path of diplomacy, he said.
The United States and Israel began military strikes against Iran on Feb 28, prompting retaliation from Tehran against U.S. allies in the Gulf region and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
A ceasefire took effect on April 8, followed by talks between Iranian and U.S. delegations in Islamabad, Pakistan that failed to produce a deal.
Trump warns of fresh strikes, Iran says fully prepared to counter US new adventures
