Introduction
The vice-president of Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and former Prime Minister, Taro Aso, has arrived in Taiwan for a three-day visit, sparking concerns in Beijing. This visit is considered significant due to Aso’s long-standing support for Taiwan and his controversial remarks about Beijing.
Historical Context
Aso’s visit to Taiwan represents a significant political engagement from Japan’s ruling party since Japan shifted diplomatic recognition from Taipei to Beijing in 1972. Taiwan and Japan’s solid relations have been evidenced by this high-profile visit, and both nations are keen to deepen their substantive cooperation.
The Delegation’s Arrival
Leading a delegation including Japanese Diet members Keisuke Suzuki and Kenji Nakanishi, Aso’s group arrived in Taipei on Monday. They were seen off from Tokyo by Taiwan’s de facto ambassador to Japan, Frank Hsieh. The visit emphasizes the close relationship between the two nations, although specific areas of collaboration were not detailed.
Planned Meetings and Speech
According to Taiwan’s foreign ministry, Aso is scheduled to meet key political figures like President Tsai Ing-wen, Vice-President William Lai Ching-te, Foreign Minister Joseph Wu, former legislature speaker Wang Jin-pyng, and Taipei mayor Wayne Chiang Wan-an. Aso is also set to deliver a keynote speech at a regional security forum organized by the Prospect Foundation, an institution that has faced sanctions from Beijing.
Paying Homage and Political Implications
On Monday, Aso and his delegation paid tribute to late Taiwanese President Lee Teng-hui. Aso’s visit is fraught with political implications as Beijing views Taiwan as its territory, and the majority of countries, including the United States, do not recognize Taiwan as an independent state.
Aso’s Stance on Taiwan and Beijing’s Response
Aso’s anti-Beijing comments, particularly his assertion that a Taiwan contingency would be a contingency for Japan, have irked Beijing. His statement in July 2021 emphasizing Japan’s need to defend Taiwan in case of invasion added to the tensions, connecting Taiwan’s situation to Japan’s survival. Aso called for strengthening Japan’s defenses against potential attacks from Beijing, emphasizing the possibility of a military conflict on Japanese territory.
Beijing’s Reaction
Beijing is expected to closely monitor Aso’s speech and meetings in Taiwan. His visit comes at a time when Beijing has increased pressure on Taiwan, with military operations around the island. Between 6 am on Sunday and 6 am Monday, 24 People’s Liberation Army warplanes and seven warships were operating near Taiwan, further escalating tensions.
Local Political Interactions
Local media reported that Aso might meet Taiwan’s vice-president and presidential front-runner Lai to understand his political views and future policies if elected. Aso has yet to talk to Lai, having met his opponents, New Taipei mayor Hou Yu-ih and former Taipei mayor Ko Wen-je, during their recent visits to Tokyo.
Business Relations
Additionally, Aso’s interactions extend to the business sector. In April, he met Taiwan’s Foxconn billionaire founder Terry Gou in Tokyo, providing an insight into the multifaceted relations between Japan and Taiwan.
Conclusion
Aso’s visit to Taiwan is a significant event in Japan-Taiwan relations, reflecting the deepening ties between the two nations. It also brings to the fore the underlying tensions with Beijing, whose displeasure with Aso’s comments and actions have been evident. The visit, filled with symbolic gestures and political meetings, reaffirms Japan’s support for Taiwan and promises further cooperation. It also underscores the complex geopolitics of the region, with Beijing watching closely and international dynamics at play.
The visit and its aftermath will likely continue to shape the intricate relationship between Japan, Taiwan, and China in the future, underscoring the critical role of diplomatic engagements and political rhetoric in international relations. Aso’s stance, Beijing’s reactions, and Taiwan’s political landscape are crucial elements that contribute to this evolving narrative.
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