Chinese mainland, Taiwan start landmark direct air and sea links

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A mainland aviation official in Shanghai spoke on the phone with his counterpart in Taipei.

The two air traffic control departments on both sides of the Strait had also established procedures for direct flights for the first time.

A ceremony was held in Shanghai to mark the historic moment.

Ahead of the flights, a ceremony was held in Shanghai to mark the historic moment.

Zheng Lizhong, Deputy Director Taiwan Affairs Office, State Council, said, "The direct routes will save a great deal of time and money for the travel of people across the Strait and for the transportation of goods. Direct air traffic will be beneficial to the integration of industries on both sides of the Strait."