Image Credits - france24
A delegation of Japanese lawmakers, led by former Liberal Democratic Party Secretary-General Shigeru Ishiba, visited Taiwan on Monday for talks with Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim. The discussions, held at the presidential office in Taipei, centred on maintaining peace in the Asia-Pacific region and enhancing cooperation between Japan and Taiwan.
This meeting comes at a time of heightened tensions in the Taiwan Strait, with the group of six lawmakers emphasizing their commitment to close collaboration in the event of a regional contingency. Ishiba noted that the discussions highlighted the importance of ensuring China is aware that any use of force would lead to significant repercussions.
The bipartisan group includes notable figures such as Shu Watanabe, former state minister of defence and a member of the main opposition Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan, and Seiji Maehara, leader of the new party Kyoiku Mushoka wo Jitsu Gen Suru Kai. Their visit, scheduled to continue through Wednesday, also includes meetings with Taiwan’s current President Lai Ching-te and former President Tsai Ing-wen.
Ishiba’s remarks reflect Japan’s stance on supporting Taiwan while deterring potential aggression from Beijing. The lawmakers’ presence in Taiwan sends a strong message of solidarity and is likely to draw reactions from China, which views Taiwan as a breakaway province.
The visit aligns with broader Japanese efforts to bolster alliances and support for Taiwan, a move that is consistent with Japan’s strategic interests in maintaining stability and peace in the Asia-Pacific. The outcomes of these discussions could have significant implications for the future of Japan-Taiwan relations and the broader regional security environment.