TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen and Vice President Lai Ching-te expressed their condolences on Monday (Feb. 5) following the death of Yoko Abe, the mother of the late former Prime Minister of Japan, Shinzo Abe, who passed away the previous day.
President Tsai and Vice President Lai conveyed their heartfelt condolences in both Chinese and Japanese languages on social media platforms.
Tsai spoke fondly of Yoko Abe's friendly relations with Taiwan, noting the time they watched an NHK concert together during the mother's visit to Taiwan in 2016. Tsai expressed her deepest condolences and gratitude for the positive relationship Yoko Abe fostered between Taiwan and Japan. She wished serenity to the grieving family and hoped they could overcome their sorrow promptly.
Sharing his shock at Yoko Abe's demise, Vice President Lai conveyed his deepest condolences and thanked Yoko Abe for her contributions to Taiwan-Japan relations. Lai prayed for strength for the Abe family to endure this challenging time.
Yoko Abe was held in high regard in Taiwan for her approachable demeanor and efforts in fostering Taiwan-Japan relations. Her passing inevitably sparked sentiments of mourning in Taiwan.