New Taiwan Representative to Japan Vows to Strengthen Ties
Tokyo, Japan– Lee Yi-yang, the newly appointed representative of Taiwan to Japan,took office on September 9th, pledging to further strengthen the already robust relationship between the two nations.
Lee, who arrived at Haneda Airport onSaturday afternoon, was greeted by a group of Taiwanese residents living in Japan. In a statement to reporters, he said in Japanese, President Lai Ching-teplaces great importance on the friendly relations between Taiwan and Japan. I am deeply aware of the weighty responsibility of this position and will do my utmost in the future.
Lee, 69, brings a wealth of experience to the role.He began his career as a journalist, later serving as a Taipei City Councilor and a member of the Cabinet during the administration of former President Chen Shui-bian. Under President Tsai Ing-wen, he held the position of Vice President ofthe Examination Yuan, the government agency responsible for civil service examinations and personnel management.
In his remarks, Lee emphasized his commitment to deepening ties between Taiwan and Japan. Taiwan and Japan have always shared the same fate, helping each other through thick and thin, he said. Currently, the two sides are engaging inunprecedented high-level exchanges in various fields, including economics, semiconductors, and culture. In the future, I will strive to maintain regional peace and stability and promote development in all areas between our two nations.
Lee’s appointment comes at a time of heightened tensions in the Taiwan Strait. China has increasingly asserted its claimsover Taiwan, conducting military exercises near the island and raising concerns about a potential conflict. Japan, which shares a strategic interest in maintaining stability in the region, has expressed growing concern over China’s actions and has strengthened its own defense capabilities.
The appointment of Lee, a seasoned diplomat with a strong understanding of both Taiwanand Japan, is seen as a signal of Taiwan’s commitment to deepening its relationship with Japan. His background in journalism and government, coupled with his fluent Japanese, positions him well to navigate the complex political landscape and foster closer cooperation between the two nations.
The relationship between Taiwan and Japan has seen significant growth in recentyears, driven by shared democratic values, economic interdependence, and a common concern about China’s growing assertiveness. The two countries have expanded cooperation in areas such as security, trade, and cultural exchanges.
Lee’s appointment is expected to further strengthen this relationship, particularly in the context of growing regional security challenges.His focus on maintaining regional peace and stability, while promoting economic and cultural cooperation, aligns with the shared interests of both Taiwan and Japan.
As Lee takes the helm of Taiwan’s diplomatic mission in Japan, his efforts will be closely watched by both sides. His success in deepening the relationship will depend on his ability tonavigate the complex political landscape, build trust with Japanese counterparts, and promote a shared vision for a stable and prosperous region.
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