Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen stated today that it has been 15 years since the Great East Japan Earthquake. Taiwan and Japan are both members of the earthquake-prone zone, with deep historical connections and strong civilian friendship. Tsai expressed his sincere hope for deepening substantive cooperation between Taiwan and Japan in disaster prevention, humanitarian assistance, and social resilience based on these foundations.
President Tsai Ing-wen posted on Facebook today, commemorating the huge natural disaster that struck our good neighbor Japan 15 years ago on this day. The earthquake and tsunami resulted in tens of thousands of deaths, disappearances, and injuries. He remembers those lost friends and draws lessons from these disasters.
According to Tsai, our Japanese friends will never forget that Taiwanese people showed great generosity at the first moment of challenge, regardless of party affiliations or public and private sectors. Both official and civilian search and rescue teams were fully prepared and headed to Japan within 72 hours.
He said, “A friend in need is a friend indeed.” Japan has always come to Taiwan’s aid immediately in the face of natural disasters such as the 921 earthquake, the Morakot 88 flooding, and even the COVID-19 pandemic. They have always warmly donated supplies, money, vaccines, and promptly sent rescue teams to assist Taiwan. The people of Taiwan deeply appreciate these gestures of kindness.
Tsai mentioned that in 2016, when the Tainan earthquake struck Taiwan, Japan sent a prepared investigation team to the scene just 14 hours later to assist in relief efforts. Such sincere and touching mutual trust and assistance have moved each other time and time again.
As the East Japan Earthquake marks its 15th anniversary, Taiwan and Japan are both members of the earthquake-prone zone with deep historical roots and steadfast civilian friendship. Tsai expressed his hope for deepening cooperation in disaster prevention, humanitarian aid, and social resilience on this foundation. He aims to continue deepening and growing their relationship, remaining reliable and important partners for each other.