国台办：“首来族”台胞证申办数量和入境人数大幅增加

Group 1 - The policy of waiving application fees for the "first-time visitors" Taiwan compatriot certificate has received widespread recognition and positive feedback since its implementation on July 1 [1] - In July, the number of applications for the "first-time visitors" Taiwan compatriot certificate increased by 22% month-on-month, with 72% of applicants being under 45 years old, indicating a significant rise in interest among young Taiwanese to visit the mainland [1] - The number of "first-time visitors" entering the mainland in July saw a month-on-month increase of 33%, reflecting a growing willingness among Taiwanese compatriots to engage in cross-strait exchanges [1] Group 2 - The recent visit of Taiwanese internet celebrity Chen Zhihan to Shenzhen, where he showcased mainland technology and infrastructure, is seen as a reflection of the awakening awareness among Taiwanese youth regarding the mainland [2] - Many Taiwanese netizens have expressed their support for objective sharing of mainland conditions on social media platforms, emphasizing the sentiment that "both sides of the strait are family" [2] - The mainland welcomes Taiwanese compatriots to share in the opportunities of internet development and encourages mutual understanding and interaction between netizens from both sides [2]