BEIJING, Dec. 17 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese mainland spokesperson on Wednesday slammed Taiwan authorities' latest move to further restrict civil servants' visits to the mainland, calling it a "malicious act" that undermines cross-Strait exchange.
Zhu Fenglian, spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, made the comment in response to Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities' plan to revise regulations governing local civil servants and specific individuals traveling to the mainland.
The revisions may include narrowing the range of relatives eligible for family visits or funeral trips and forcing senior civil servants and police officers to apply for permission at least seven days before planned mainland trips.
Zhu criticized the DPP authorities for abusing their power to obstruct and restrict Taiwan residents from coming to the mainland, and suppress organizations and individuals engaged in cross-Strait exchanges.
She also condemned the DPP authorities for attempting to threaten and intimidate Taiwan entertainers working on the mainland.
The mainland provides a broad stage for Taiwan artists and their participation enriches the mainland's performance market, Zhu said.
The spokesperson reaffirmed the mainland's support for cross-Strait cultural cooperation in fields such as film and music, welcoming Taiwan artists to participate in mainland events, and inviting Taiwan residents to travel to the mainland and enjoy cultural activities. ■
