Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te stated that the greatest threat faced by Taiwan and Japan is not typhoons, earthquakes, or infectious diseases, but rather the Chinese mainland's ongoing gray-zone intrusions and maritime coercion against neighboring countries. He said that only by uniting can Taiwan and Japan safeguard democracy, freedom, peace, and prosperity.
According to a press release from Taiwan’s Presidential Office, on Tuesday President Lai Ching-te met with Masajiro Hiranuma, director of the Youth Division of Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party, and the party’s overseas training delegation at the Presidential Office. He once again expressed his sincerest condolences for the earthquake that struck Kumamoto, Japan last week, and hopes that reconstruction efforts will proceed smoothly and that those affected will soon return to normal life.
Lai Ching-te said that Taiwan is prepared to provide assistance to Japan whenever needed. He, along with the government, businesses, organizations, and many Taiwanese people, have already donated funds in hopes of helping disaster victims overcome hardships and rebuild their homes.
He believes that this is the best, most natural, and most sincere friendship between Taiwan and Japan. Over the years, Taiwan and Japan have supported each other through natural disasters, epidemics, and various challenges, becoming good friends who share weal and woe.
Lai Ching-te also thanked the Japanese government for repeatedly emphasizing the importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait at international occasions, demonstrating Japan’s strong commitment to regional peace. He stated, "Without unity, there is no freedom. Without strength, there is no peace."
Regarding the Chinese mainland’s official implementation of the 'Law on the Promotion of National Unity and Progress' starting July 1, Lai Ching-te claimed that Beijing "attempts to extend its political control and reign of fear to Taiwan, Japan, and democratic countries around the world." Only by uniting and cooperating can Taiwan and Japan safeguard democracy, freedom, peace, and prosperity.