Image Credits - Taiwan Today
President Tsai Ing-wen of Taiwan honoured former diplomat Tarumi Hideo with the prestigious Grand Cordon of the Order of Brilliant Star on Thursday, May 9, for his significant contributions to strengthening Taiwan-Japan relations over the years.
During the award ceremony, President Tsai commended Tarumi for his pivotal role in fostering closer ties between Taiwan and Japan throughout his distinguished career. She highlighted Tarumi’s efforts in promoting bilateral cooperation and facilitating initiatives such as visa-free entry for Taiwanese travellers to Japan, which significantly boosted tourism between the two nations.
President Tsai emphasized the shared values of freedom and human rights between Taiwan and Japan, underscoring their mutual commitment to regional peace and stability. She expressed gratitude to Tarumi for his instrumental role in solidifying the foundation of Taiwan-Japan relations and extended a warm invitation for him to visit Taiwan in the future.
In his response, Tarumi expressed his appreciation for the honour bestowed upon him by President Tsai and reflected on his nearly four-decade-long diplomatic journey.
Following the conferment ceremony, President-elect Lai Ching-te met with Tarumi at the Presidential Office, echoing President Tsai’s sentiments and expressing hopes for further deepening cooperation between Taiwan and Japan.
Tarumi, who concluded his diplomatic career last year, has transitioned to photography and currently serves as a professor specializing in cross-strait relations at Ritsumeikan University.