Japan-Taiwan Relations: Between Affinity and Reality

Abstract

Factors that have contributed to the affinity between contemporary Japan & Taiwan are studied. After demonstrating that Japan & Taiwan are connected by a colonialist past & possess multiple cultural similarities, it is suggested that the two entities remain close because Taiwan has not levied significant criticism against Japan for its participation in WWII. Several additional political, economic, & social determinants responsible for the close relations between Japan & Taiwan are identified, eg, both states promote capitalism & support liberal democracy & Taiwanese & Japanese political leaders have created friendship associations. In addition, it is claimed that former Taiwanese president Lee Teng-hui's efforts to solidify Japanese-Taiwanese relations by emphasizing these shared characteristics were highly successful. Additional circumstances that could further strengthen Japanese-Taiwanese relations (eg, the US's inclusion of Taiwan in its theater missile defense in the Pacific region) & the implications of this burgeoning relationship for both entities' relations with the People's Republic of China are pondered. In addition, three factors that could diminish Japanese-Taiwanese relations are noted, eg, Taiwan's continued pursuit of independence. J. W. Parker.