Minister of Foreign Affairs Jaushieh Joseph Wu met with a delegation led by professor Yasuhiro Matsuda from the University of Tokyo’s cross-strait relations research group Aug. 26 in Taipei City to discuss threats from authoritarian expansion and Taiwan-Japan relations.
Praising Matsuda and his team for their research on Taiwan’s politics and cross-strait relations, Wu said the group’s analysis of the country’s social and economic developments, cross-strait relations and regional security has helped advance Taiwan-Japan relations.
According to the minister, the people have been greatly encouraged by recent visits from Taiwan’s friends amid military threats and coercion from China.
They have also been deeply inspired by the determination demonstrated by the government and people of Ukraine in defending their country, Wu said, adding that Taiwan will continue to safeguard its democratic institutions to advance regional peace and stability.
Due to Beijing’s frequent military exercises in the region, the minister said it is imperative for Taiwan to establish effective communication platforms with its like-minded partners, including Japanese academia, to address changes in regional developments.
In response, Matsuda said the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and China’s military exercises have highlighted Taiwan’s vital role in the global community.
Matsuda added that he hoped the government would open its borders and ease entry restrictions to welcome Taiwan’s friends very soon, as such visits will further increase support from the international community. (SFC-E)
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