A student performance at the opening ceremony of the 33rd Cross-Strait Little Peace Angels Exchange program. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

On the morning of July 15, the 33rd Cross-Strait Little Peace Angels Exchange program, one of the longest-running and most influential youth exchange programs across the Taiwan Strait, kicked off in Xiamen, Fujian province.

Jointly organized by the All-China Federation of Taiwan Compatriots, its Fujian provincial branch and Xiamen and Zhangzhou municipal branches, this event brought together 32 pairs of "little peace angels" from both sides.

In the coming days, they would go on a cultural journey. They'll head to Wuyuan Bay for sailing-related learning, visit Xiamen University to experience its academic culture, and join Minnan folk activities to explore local traditions. They'll also go to Zhangzhou to watch a robot dog show and explore intangible cultural heritages like puppetry and cotton painting.

Zheng Ping, vice-president of the All-China Federation of Taiwan Compatriots, delivers a speech at the opening ceremony of the 33rd Cross-Strait Little Peace Angels Exchange program. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Zheng Ping, vice-president of the All-China Federation of Taiwan Compatriots, said in his address that the event offers a platform for interaction and injects vitality into cultural exchange. He believes the little peace angels will discover shared history and culture across the Strait and gain knowledge and friendship.

Chen, the team leader from Taipei, stated that Taiwan teachers and students brought dances, songs, and stories to the event to enhance cultural resonance and friendship through communication.

"I don't often get to visit the mainland," said Chang, a student from Taiwan attending the event and visiting Fujian for the first time. "I've long been curious about its cities. I hope to take in the local scenery, have fun, and make new friends here."

Yang Che contributed to this story.

Students watch a puppet show. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Students make cotton paintings of narcissus flowers. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Participants visit Zhangzhou Ancient City during the 33rd Cross-Strait Little Peace Angels Exchange program. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]