Taiwan-Japan relations are continuing to improve and reflect the special bond shared by the people of both nations, ROC Legislative Yuan President Wang Jin-pyng said April 22 in Tokyo.
Wang, who was in Japan on a good-will visit following last month’s earthquake and tsunami that struck the northeastern part of the country, made the remarks one day after handing over a donation of NT$370 million (US$12 million) to Reijiro Hattori, president of Japan’s Interchange Association.
“These funds raised by the people of Taiwan will play a significant role in getting the disaster-hit area back on its feet,” Wang said. “I am deeply touched by the sincere gratitude shown by all sections of Japanese society for Taiwan’s ongoing support.”
Wang said the lifting of a Ministry of Foreign Affairs travel warning for ROC nationals to the Kanto region, along with the eastern and southern coastal sections of Hokkaido April 20 is expected to assist in the bounceback.
“This measure will contribute to the recovery of Japan’s tourism industry,” Wang said.
The disaster, Wang said, also underscored the need for Taiwan and Japan to work together on improving nuclear power safety. “Both sides will ramp up exchanges in areas of facility operations, disaster management and the development of alternative energy,” he added.
Wang’s three-day trip, which wrapped up April 22, included meetings with Yukio Hatoyama, former prime minister, Takeo Nishioka, president of the house of councilors, Seishiro Eto, vice speaker of the House of Representatives, and various lawmakers. (JSM)
Write to Elaine Hou at elainehou@mail.gio.gov.tw