cross-posted from: https://mander.xyz/post/51663754

President William Lai (賴清德) on Wednesday thanked the Japanese government and lawmakers for their vocal support of Taiwan after Beijing’s pressure forced him to temporarily delay his state visit to the Kingdom of Eswatini last month.

Meeting with Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association (JTEA) Chairman Shuzo Sumi at the Presidential Office in Taipei, Lai said that Japan’s firm stance demonstrates its steadfast commitment to regional peace and stability.

Lai praised Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi for introducing an upgraded “Free and Open Indo-Pacific” strategy during her visit to Vietnam last week, adding that strengthening supply chain resilience, developing artificial intelligence and expanding security cooperation are crucial for the region’s prosperity.