Cross-Straits ties to get closer

The scheme which connects East China's Fujian province with Jinmen and Matsu in Taiwan via water, gas and power supplies and bridges, has been worked out recently.

"It's a demand of Taiwan residents and it will foster the connection with Jinmen and Matsu," said Jiang Zhiguang, an official from Fujian.

In terms of water supply, Jinmen will protect the environment and enhance delivery facilities around the water source of Longhu Lake while making sure of the connectivity with Huihu Lake, a backup water source. Matsu will be supplied by Huangqi town in Fujian with 1,000 tons of water every day; Guanling town will also give a hand to lift the region's water delivery capabilities.

In terms of power supply, a transmission system featuring flexible high voltage direct current (HVDC) will be adopted to tackle the differences in power grid frequency and voltage between Fujian and Taiwan. Electricity will be transmitted through submarine cables from Xiamen and Fuzhou to Jinmen and Matsu. Taiwan residents will also share the same electricity price as Fujian locals.

In terms of natural gas supply, shipping will be the top choice for transportation across the Straits, while gas pipelines have also been taken in consideration.

For bridges, the feasibility of building bridges connecting Matsu and Fujian's Xiamen and Fuzhou are being discussed, while highways and railways within the province are also under construction to elevate the transportation network.