Background: Cross-Straits Forum

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Let's stay on that Cross Straits forum in Changsha in Hunan province but taking a closer look at key changes over the years.

The first forum was held in April 2006 in Beijing.(CCTV.com)

The first forum was held in April 2006 in Beijing. The mainland announced new incentives to promote cross-Strait trade. Participants also passed joint proposals for closer economic ties.

The second forum promoted cooperation in agriculture. It was held in October 2006 in Hainan Province. It drew hundreds of agricultural enterprises from both sides of the Strait.

Part of the forum was held at an agricultural exhibition in Xiamen in Fujian Province. Taiwan delegates were also invited to visit agricultural projects in Mainland cities.

In 2007, the forums got an official title, "The Cross-Strait Economic, Trade and Culture Forum".

The third was held in April in Beijing. Participants exchanged views on issues including direct cross strait flights, and cooperation in education and tourism. 13 policies were announced.

Mainland and Taiwan airlines were encouraged to expand cooperation. The Mainland's civil aviation schools also welcomed Taiwan students.

The fourth forum was held in Shanghai last December. It focused on the financial and service sectors.

It encouraged two-way investment and regular economic exchanges. The two sides also called for joint efforts to cope with the global financial crisis.