"More effort should be made at cultural events to pave the way for exchanges between artists and writers, athletes, students and professionals so that a mechanism of exchanges can be set up between the two cities," said Bai.

Bai said he hoped frequent contact could improve mutual understanding and trust, leading to an improved relationship across the Taiwan Straits.

Senior officials from Taipei and Shanghai are trading ideas on environmental protection, education and urban planning during the two-day urban forum, which began Tuesday.

Bai told China Daily that a proposal to allow mutual visits between elementary and middle school students is on the drawing board.

"I hope the plan can be worked out after discussion with Shanghai officials on Wednesday, and I hope it will start in the second half of this year. The travel programmes can help students know each other better and strengthen friendship," Bai said.

Bai secured his first official trip to Shanghai last September. In exchange, Shanghai Vice-Mayor Feng Guoqin visited Taiwan last month as a representative of a local social welfare organization to promote further exchanges between the two cities.

Investment from Taiwan is pumped into 38,000 companies, making up 20 percent of total investment from outside Shanghai.

Bai said he was very impressed by the rapid upgrade of Shanghai's urban facilities and economic growth.

"It felt like home. The visit has fulfilled my expectations," said Bai.

Bai also extended his best wishes to Beijing, which is bidding to host the 2008 Olympic Games.

"Taipei wants Beijing to win the bidding. We have and will continue to express our support for overseas tours," said Bai.

(China Daily 02/28/2001)