In memory of former Japanese Prime Minister Abe Shinzo and his constant support of Taiwan, Premier Su Tseng-chang paid a special visit Monday to the Taipei office of the Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association to offer his condolences. In addition to paying his respects by bowing and laying flowers at the memorial site, the premier also wrote a heartfelt message thanking former Prime Minister Abe for his efforts to support Taiwan and advance Taiwan-Japan friendship, calling him a "good friend of the Taiwanese people."
In remarks shortly afterward, the premier especially thanked the former prime minister for always speaking out in support during Taiwan's times of greatest difficulty and when faced with pressure from China. The former prime minister once even said that Taiwan's emergency is Japan's emergency, and therefore an emergency for the Japan-U.S. alliance.
Former Prime Minister Abe was an ardent supporter of Taiwan's participation in international organizations. And, when the COVID-19 situation in Taiwan was at its darkest, he played a major role in facilitating the Japanese government's six shipments of much-needed vaccine donations to Taiwan, the premier said.
Former Prime Minister Abe will forever be a good friend of Taiwan, Premier Su said. The people and government of Taiwan share Japan's grief at his unfortunate passing. The premier made this special trip Monday to pay his respects and tribute to former Prime Minister Abe, and hopes he will rest in peace.