Taiwan mediation center established

A district in Xiamen, Fujian province, established a Taiwan-related dispute resolution center on May 31 to better serve Taiwan compatriots living there.

Staffed by Taiwan compatriots, it is the first of its kind in Fujian. In addition to mediating Taiwan-related disputes, the center will also provide legal consultation, notarization and legal education services. The mediators are primarily Taiwan assistants from the community with extensive grassroots mediation experience.

"They are better able to understand the psychological needs of Taiwan compatriots, allowing them to mediate disputes more effectively and practically," said Fang Xuming, the head of Huli district's Taiwan Affairs Office.

In recent years, the number of Taiwan compatriots living, working and studying in Fujian has been increasing, with the trend especially evident among young people.

Around 1,700 young Taiwan people are working or have started businesses in Huli, according to official data.

"There are also over 3,500 Taiwan businesspeople living in Huli and, in total, more than 11,000 Taiwan compatriots," Fang said. "With such a large population and differences in systems across the strait, it is inevitable that some friction and disputes will arise among neighbors."

He said that without a dispute resolution center, small conflicts could escalate.

"For example, if there's a water leak, residents may feel their rights are being infringed and might go straight to court or file complaints," he said. "These minor neighborhood issues, which could be addressed easily through communication, may become major problems."

Fang said the mediation center has contact points in 21 communities and six Taiwan youth entrepreneurship bases. It will also hire professional lawyers to provide legal training for Taiwan compatriots to enhance the professional skills of Taiwan mediators and foster a favorable business environment and harmonious community for living and working.

In September, the State Council issued a regulation on expanding the involvement of Taiwan compatriots in Chinese mainland society, encouraging them to take on roles as arbitrators, mediators and judicial assistants, and to contribute to the establishment of the rule of law in Fujian.

Yang Jie contributed to this story.

Contact the writers at zhaoruinan@chinadaily.com.cn