Japan’s former Minister of Justice, Congressman Suzuki Shoya, visited Taiwan today (3rd) and will serve as a participant in the “Quadrennial Forum: 2026 Indo-Pacific Security Dialogue”, during which he will meet with Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te and Vice President Hsiao Mei-chin. He will also exchange views with Taiwan’s political figures on issues of mutual concern between Taiwan and Japan. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of China expressed a warm welcome to Suzuki.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of China issued a press release stating that Congressman Suzuki is well-versed in Japanese diplomacy and regional security policies, and is highly concerned about peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. Having held positions such as Minister of Justice, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Deputy Minister of Finance, and head of the Youth Bureau of the Liberal Democratic Party, Suzuki has visited Taiwan multiple times to actively deepen Taiwan-Japan relations.
Furthermore, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that during his tenure as Minister of Justice, Congressman Suzuki amended regulations, allowing tens of thousands of Taiwanese living in Japan to have “Taiwan” recorded in their household registrations from May 2025 onwards. This move further protects the rights and interests of compatriots of the Republic of China in Japan, making Suzuki an important international friend of Taiwan.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs pointed out that Taiwan and Japan share core values such as democracy, freedom, human rights, and the rule of law. They are both key partners in the first island chain, jointly facing security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region and the complex and changing global situation.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that Suzuki’s visit to Taiwan this time will help to build a closer and more resilient friendship between Taiwan and Japan, further safeguarding peace, stability, and prosperity in the Taiwan Strait and the Indo-Pacific region.