At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in Japan, when the country faced a critical shortage of medical supplies, the FRA responded to calls for help from Dr. Wang Hui-Sheng, a Taiwanese doctor based in Japan. The FRA donated protective equipment, facial shields, masks, and pulse oximeters to Japan, and this selfless act was met with great praise and attention from the Japanese media. Now that the effects of the pandemic have subsided, FRA Chair Tommy Lin led a delegation to visit Japan.
The group first visited the Kansai region, where the FRA forged friendships through shared challenges and support during the pandemic, before proceeding to Tokyo to meet with Economic Security Minister Takaichi Sanae and members of both houses of the Japanese parliament. The visit aimed to deepen Taiwan-Japan ties and embody Representative Frank Hsieh’s vision of a "virtuous cycle" of diplomacy. On August 24, the delegation paid a visit to Kyoto City, where Mayor Kadokawa Daisaku welcomed them in formal kimono attire, accompanied by heads of various city departments. The atmosphere was warm and friendly, and both sides participated in lively discussions. That evening, the Taiwan Friendship Association in Kyoto hosted a welcome banquet for the guests. On August 25, the group visited the nationally designated historical site "Fuyō-en" at the foot of Mount Hiei, after which the delegation met with Shiga Prefecture Governor Mikazuki Taizo. With support from Dr. Wang Hui-Sheng, the FRA has been actively fostering grassroots diplomacy in Japan, following Taiwan Ambassador to Japan Frank Hsieh’s strategy of "influencing the central through local engagement" and encouraging "local lawmakers to hold local officials accountable." On August 26, the delegation participated in a symposium organized by the Japan-US-Taiwan Relations Research Institute, a strategic pro-Taiwan think tank based in Japan. Both sides exchanged views on how Taiwan and Japan can strengthen cooperation to counter threats from China and enhance national security, further deepening Taiwan-Japan ties. On August 27, the FRA attended a networking dinner with the Taiwanese community in Japan and the Friends of Taiwan Association in the Kanto region, during which FRA Chairman Tommy Lin introduced the mission of the Formosa Republican Association. Executive Director Dr. Chen Yung-Hsing spoke about the upcoming election and current developments in Taiwan. Finally, Legislator Chiu Tai-yuan gave a keynote speech on Taiwan’s participation in international medical organizations and its significance and strategic direction. On August 28, the group met with members of the Japanese National Diet, including Minister Takaichi Sanae. The Japanese officials emphasized their hopes that Taiwan would apply scientific and objective standards in evaluating the importation of Japanese food products—an issue long advocated by the FRA. The visit concluded with a reception by Ambassador Frank Hsieh, who offered his support and blessings. Looking ahead, the FRA remains committed to strengthening civil exchanges with Japan, deepening bilateral relations and strategic collaboration.
