"I saw a lot of high-rises under construction along the roads," he added. "I could feel the city’s booming vitality."

Ma also suggested that more aspirational Taiwan youngsters should move to Pingtan to pursue their dreams.

More Taiwan stars will take to the stage in Pingtan in August for the Blue Tears Music Festival, according to Lan Yuhua, the festival's sponsor.

"Music can be a channel for cross-Straits youth to communicate," she said.

Taiwan singer Peng Xu-wei sings during the cross-Straits music festival held in Pingtan, Fujian province on June 19. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Mint Green performs during the cross-Straits music festival held in Pingtan, Fujian province on June 19. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]