TAIPEI (TVBS News) — President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) on Friday (Sept. 27) congratulated Japan's former defense minister Shigeru Ishiba (石破茂) on his successful election as leader of its Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), expressing hope for enhanced cooperation between the two parties under his leadership.
Democratic Progressive Party (DPP, 民進黨) spokesperson Han Ying (韓瑩) issued a statement highlighting Lai's commitment to strengthening party relations earlier that day, stating that President Lai, also the DPP chairman, has always placed great importance on the development of relations between the two parties.
President Lai stressed his hope to further promote institutionalized and multi-level exchanges and cooperation under Ishiba's leadership. Han also emphasized the long-standing friendship and interaction between the DPP and the LDP.
Ishiba, who visited Taiwan in August, met with Lai and underscored the urgency of preventing today's Ukraine from becoming tomorrow's East Asia. He urged the democratic camp to stand together to maintain regional peace and stability during the meeting.
The LDP presidential election results were announced on Friday. Ishiba emerged victorious in his fifth attempt, securing 215 votes. He is expected to become the new prime minister.