TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) welcomed the new chairman of the Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association (日本台灣交流協會), Shuzo Sumi (隅修三), Wednesday (Sept. 17) in a diplomatic meeting focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation between Taiwan and Japan. Cho presented Sumi with four symbolic fruit varieties including pomelos, pears, pineapples, and red dragon fruit, representing resilience and mutual goodwill. The ceremonial gift exchange marked the beginning of enhanced partnership discussions under Sumi's leadership.
Cho articulated his vision for expanded collaboration with Japan across disaster prevention and high-technology sectors, recognizing both nations' complementary strengths in these critical areas. Sumi responded positively to these proposals, specifically emphasizing Japan's interest in learning from Taiwan's renowned disaster prevention expertise and preparedness systems. Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba (石破茂) has frequently praised Taiwan's disaster management capabilities, reinforcing the mutual respect between the two democratic neighbors.
Cho highlighted the fundamental democratic values shared between Taiwan and Japan, expressing optimism for strengthened cooperation under Sumi's new leadership of the exchange association. The Premier extended gratitude to Prime Minister Ishiba for offering condolences following Taiwan's devastating July typhoon disaster. Cho referenced the nations' history of mutual disaster assistance, presenting their partnership as an exemplary model of international cooperation during crisis situations.
Cho acknowledged Japan's global leadership in advanced materials and high-technology equipment manufacturing, recognizing the nation's innovative contributions to the semiconductor industry. The Premier highlighted Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company's (TSMC, 台積電) successful Kumamoto facility as a benchmark for international collaboration that other nations should study and emulate. Cho emphasized the distinctive and irreplaceable nature of Taiwan-Japan technological cooperation, suggesting their partnership creates synergies that competitors find challenging to duplicate.