Zheng's speech was echoed by Yok Mu-ming, chairman of Taiwan's New Party.

"Pingtan, owing to its notable geographical and policy advantages, provides youth with favorable conditions to start a business," Yok said.

Yok Mu-ming, chairman of Taiwan's New Party, expresses his hope that Taiwan and Pingtan will further mutual communication and exchanges to achieve a win-win cooperation at the sixth “Common Homeland” Forum in Pingtan on June 19. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Li Dejin, vice governor of Fujian Provincial People's Government, also noted at the conference that the central government attaches great significance to Pingtan's development.

The provincial government shall continue to support the city's development and aims eventually to build it into a "common homeland" for people from both the mainland and Taiwan, Li pledged.

Zhang Zhaomin, Party chief of Pingtan Comprehensive Pilot Zone, briefed attendees on Pingtan's achievements over the past several years.

Pingtan has witnessed dramatic development in city infrastructure and transportation after investing 250 billion yuan ($38 billion) over the past five years, according to Zhang.

The city still maintains frequent exchanges and cooperation with Taiwan in the fields of economy, culture and society even when cross-Straits governmental exchanges come to a halt, Zhang revealed.