TAIPEI (TVBS News) — New Taipei Mayor Hou Yu-ih departed from Taipei's Songshan Airport for Japan to boost bilateral ties between Japan and Taiwan early on Monday (July 31) morning.
Before boarding his 7:30 am flight, Hou took a few minutes to express his hopes for the trip, stressing the importance of the strong ties between the two nations.
"Taiwan and Japan have long had an inseparable connection geographically, historically, and culturally," Hou began.
The Kuomintang (KMT) presidential candidate pointed out the numerous sister cities between the two nations, emphasizing the continuously deepening friendship between
Taiwan and Japan.
The city mayor plans to meet with parliament members in Japan and Taiwanese living in the country.
"I hope to make this known to Japan: the Republic of China's (ROC, Taiwan) determination to maintain regional peace and stability and defend Taiwan's freedom and democracy," he said.
"This is the most important goal of my trip."