The Taiwan-Japan meeting on maritime affairs cooperation was held Jan. 13 in Tokyo, highlighting the commitment of both sides to strengthening ties and seeking opportunities to work together in areas of mutual concern.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, officials held in-depth discussions on topics spanning marine ecology, marine science, maritime security and fishery management. They also concluded a memorandum of understanding on tackling marine debris.
The pact was signed on behalf of their respective sides by Su Jia-chyuan, chair of the Taiwan-Japan Relations Association, and Mitsuo Ohashi, chair of the Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association. Under the accord, the two countries will bolster exchanges and joint research on techniques for effectively surveying and cleaning marine debris, with the aim of reducing human-made waste in the ocean.
In terms of fishery cooperation, the MOFA said both parties agreed to continue dialogue on key issues such as access to waters surrounding Okinotori Atoll.
The fifth meeting was held in accordance with the Taiwan-Japan maritime affairs cooperation mechanism established in 2016. The next edition will take place in Taiwan. (DL-E)
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