Taiwan crucial to survival of Japan: KatayamaBy William Hetherington / Staff writer, with CNATaiwan is crucial to Japan’s survival, and the two nations should work together to strengthen supply chains, Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association Representative Kazuyuki Katayama said. “For Japan, Taiwan is of existential importance,” he said. Commenting on Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co’s (台積電) investment in a plant in Kumamoto, Japan, Katayama said the move was a step in the right direction, as Japan and Taiwan should form a complementary relationship by capitalizing on their respective strengths rather than competing with one another. Regarding areas for further cooperation, Katayama said disaster prevention and relief, environmental energy and public health are challenges jointly faced by Taiwan, Japan and the global community, and areas where the two nations could make strides together. In addition, cooperation in areas such as drones and the security of undersea cables could enhance economic security and promote development, Katayama said.

Source: Taipei Times February 02, 2026 17:27 UTC