A ship called the Dayang 11 left the Shuitou Port of Quemoy Islands, under rule of the Taiwan authorities, and arrived at the Heping Port of Xiamen, opposite the Quemoy Islands, late Friday morning.

Before this route was opened, the direct shipping between Quemoy and Xiamen, in the eastern province of Fujian, was from Liaoluowan Port of Quemoy to Xiamen, taking about two hours. The new route will cut navigation time by 30 minutes.

Passengers on the Dayang 11 were members of the Quemoy welfare association for the disabled who were welcomed by the Xiamen handicapped association at the Heping port.

(eastday 10/28/2001)