Statement by TAEF Chairman Hsiao inMemory of Former Japanese Prime Minister Abe, Taiwan’s Forever Friend
On July 8, former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was assassinated in Nara, Japan, shocking and saddening the world.On behalf of the Taiwan-Asia Exchange Foundation, I extend our deepest condolences to Shinzo Abe, the dearest and forever friend of Taiwan.
Prime Minister Abe was a visionary political leader and a defender of regional stability and global democracy. Following this tragedy, Japan lost a great leader, the world lost a champion of global democracy, and Taiwan lost its most loyal friend.
On October 8th last year, Prime Minister Abe wrote a warm letter to the Taiwan-Asia Exchange Foundation congratulating the Yushan Forum. In his letter, he highlighted Taiwan’s contribution to the international community. He said “Taiwan is an important partner of Japan with shared values, and Taiwan will and can contribute more to the free and open Indo-Pacific region. Facing the universal challenge of COVID-19, Japan and Taiwan stand ready to help and support each other.” As to the Forum, Prime Minister Abe stressed that “the Yushan Forum is a paramount platform for countries in Asia and the world to develop mutual understanding and expandcommon grounds. I wish the Forum every success in becoming the greatest driver of its vision.”
Taiwan-Asia Exchange Foundation deeply treasures Prime Minister Abe’s unwavering support and friendship with Taiwan and his warm words of encouragement to the Yushan Forum. In honor of Prime Minister Abe’s memory,we will continue our commitment to the New Southbound Policy and work towards a peaceful and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.
Our hearts are with the family of Prime Minister Abe in this moment of grief.
Hsin-Huang Michael Hsiao,
Chairman of Taiwan-Asia Exchange Foundation
July 9th, 2022