On the evening of June 29, Legislative Yuan Vice President Dr. Johnny C. Chiang (江啟臣) hosted a banquet for a homecoming delegation from the Federation of Chinese Associations in Japan. He was accompanied by KMT Legislator Hung Mong-Kai, DPP Legislator Dr. Chuang Jui-Hsiung, and TPP Legislator Dr. Hsu Chung-Hsin, who serves as Vice Presidents of the Legislative Yuan Taiwan-Japan Friendship Association. Vice Minister Chang Liang-Ming of the Overseas Community Affairs Council (OCAC) was also in attendance.
Vice President Chiang first extended a warm welcome to the delegation on behalf of the Legislative Yuan and President Daniel K.Y. Han (韓國瑜). He emphasized that the Federation of Chinese Associations in Japan has significant influence in Japan and that its members return to Taiwan every year, never forgetting Taiwan and remaining deeply connected to the country. Vice President Chiang expressed his appreciation to the guests present for their continued love for the Republic of China.
Vice President Chiang noted that representatives of all three political parties were present today to welcome their friends from the overseas compatriot community. He said that the people and governments of Taiwan and Japan have demonstrated their close relationship through concrete actions, with active exchanges in such areas as trade and economics and trade, culture, tourism, and technology, all of which have benefited greatly from the important role played by the overseas compatriot community in Japan. Vice President Chiang noted that the Federation of Chinese Associations in Japan has been deeply rooted in Japan for 80 years, establishing a presence in communities across the country and promoting greater understanding of Taiwan and recognition of the Republic of China in Japanese society. He said that Taiwan-Japan relations are currently at a historic high, with bilateral trade having reached US$84.8 billion in 2025, while tourism exchanges also exceeded 8 million visits, including more than 6.7 million visitors from Taiwan to Japan, a record high. Moreover, TSMC's investment in Kumamoto has opened the way for deeper Taiwan-Japan cooperation in semiconductors and high-tech industries.
Vice President Chiang further emphasized that the achievement of today’s strong Taiwan-Japan relationship was hard-won, having been built on the solid foundation established by overseas compatriot communities in the past. In particular, he noted that the Federation of Chinese Associations in Japan has promoted educational, cultural, and charitable exchanges at the local level through Chinese schools in Tokyo, Yokohama, Osaka, and other areas. Vice President Chiang added that these efforts have helped Japanese society gain a deeper understanding of the Republic of China (Taiwan). He expressed his hope that everyone would cherish Taiwan-Japan relations and continue working to strengthen bilateral ties in the future.
Vice President Chiang concluded by once again expressing his appreciation for the long-standing support and affection for Taiwan shown by overseas compatriot communities. He emphasized that the Legislative Yuan, regardless of political affiliation, attaches great importance to overseas compatriots. Vice President Chiang encouraged them to regard the Legislative Yuan as their home in Taiwan and stressed that, should they need any assistance in the future, the Legislative Yuan would do its utmost to provide help and serve as their most steadfast source of support.
President Lo Hung-Chien of the Federation of Chinese Associations in Japan delivered remarks on behalf of the delegation and thanked Vice President Chiang and the attending legislators for taking time from their busy schedules to host the delegation. He said that although overseas compatriots living in Japan reside abroad, they have always cared deeply about Taiwan's development and the country's future. President Lo stated that, as the nation’s highest legislative body, the Legislative Yuan bears the important responsibilities of overseeing the government and advancing national policies. He noted that the formulation and implementation of various policies require communication and coordination between the ruling and opposition parties, while the Legislative Yuan must also carefully review policies on behalf of the people. President Lo also commended Vice President Chiang for his extensive political experience and outstanding parliamentary skills, which have contributed to the smooth operation of the legislature, an admirable achievement. He further noted that overseas compatriots in Japan have long followed Taiwan’s progress and development. He expressed his belief that, through the joint efforts of the government and the legislature, Taiwan can continue to enhance its national competitiveness, while overseas compatriots will continue to serve as an important bridge between Taiwan and the international community.
The two sides subsequently exchanged commemorative gifts, after which Vice President Chiang joined the attending legislators and delegation members for a group photograph. The dinner banquet lasted approximately two hours and concluded successfully in a warm and cordial atmosphere, with both hosts and guests enjoying the occasion. (2026/06/29)
