By Yasin Gungor
ISTANBUL (AA) - The magistrates of two counties in Taiwan have applied to attend the 16th Straits Forum in China, authorities announced Thursday.
Yunlin County Magistrate Chang Li-shan and Kinmen County Magistrate Chen Fu-hai, from the opposition Kuomintang and Taiwan People’s Party, respectfully, have submitted their applications, said Liang Wen-chieh, deputy head and spokesperson of the Mainland Affairs Council.
He said the Taiwanese government does not favor local officials participating in the forum but will not obstruct their attendance.
Liang emphasized that attendees must comply with legal regulations and avoid illegal cooperation with Chinese authorities.
Chang said she hopes her participation will promote dialogue and alleviate tensions affecting Taiwanese industries, local media reported.
Taiwanese magistrates have to seek permission to enter mainland China, with applications reviewed by a committee of various ministries.
The Straits Forum, held annually since 2009, aims to foster engagement between China and Taiwan amid ongoing political complexities.
Tensions between Beijing and Taipei have escalated since Taiwan’s new President Lai Ching-te, who Beijing calls a "separatist," took office last month.