The State Council Taiwan Affairs Office on Monday condemned Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party authorities for reportedly threatening to investigate about 20 entertainers from the island, including cellist and actress Ouyang Nana, over social media posts advocating reunification and opposing "Taiwan independence."
The DPP authorities claimed that a group of artists active on the mainland had frequently posted content echoing the one-China principle, particularly during the mainland's military exercises in the Taiwan Strait."
The entertainers could face fines following investigations, according to Taiwan media reports.
Chen Binhua, spokesman for the Taiwan Affairs Office, said the move violates the basic rights and freedom of speech of Taiwan compatriots and exposes the hypocritical nature of the DPP's stated commitment to "democracy, freedom and human rights."
He accused the DPP of manipulating anti-mainland sentiment for political purposes, saying it is harmful to cross-Strait relations.
"In recent years, an increasing number of Taiwan entertainers have come to the mainland to pursue careers and realize their dreams," Chen said. "Based on their personal experiences, they express a sense of shared identity as Chinese people, support cross-Strait exchanges and peaceful development, and hope for closer ties between compatriots on both sides."
Chen said their views and actions have been widely welcomed by people on both sides of the Strait.
He added that political manipulation will not gain popular support and is doomed to fail.
The mainland will continue to support and encourage cultural exchanges and cooperation across the Strait, welcome Taiwan entertainers to develop their careers on the mainland, and take necessary measures to safeguard their legitimate rights and interests, Chen said.
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