The Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association is holding an event to thank Taiwan for its assistance following the 2011 Tōhoku Earthquake, which killed more than 15,000 people. The event began on March 10 and will go all the way to March 21.
Japanese Representative to Taiwan Izumi Hiroyasu says his country will never forget how Taiwan extended a helping hand during Japan’s darkest hour. Hiroyasu’s remarks came during an event the Japanese representative office in Taiwan is holding in Taipei. The event thanks Taiwan for assisting Japan in the wake of the 2011 Tōhoku Earthquake, which claimed more than 15,000 lives. Hiroyasu says the event also seeks to foster better relations between the two countries.
Taiwan’s Foreign Minister Joseph Wu says that Japan and Taiwan have always shared a strong relationship. He says that when Japan faces difficulties, Taiwan is always there to show its support. When Taiwan is unfairly treated, Japan will do what it can to help.
March 11 will mark a decade since the disastrous earthquake devastated northeastern Japan. A Taiwanese firefighter who was dispatched to Japan to help with relief efforts in 2011 shared his experiences.
The event will shine a light on disaster prevention and Taiwan-Japan relations. It began on March 10 and will go until March 21. The Japan office in Taiwan says it wants people to learn more about the disaster through art and culture. Furthermore, it also hopes Taiwan can feel Japan's undying gratitude.