July 8, 2022
No. 165
Former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, currently a member of the House of Representatives, was shot at around 11:30 this morning (local time) while giving a speech in Nara. He was hit in the chest, causing bleeding, and was rushed to the hospital for emergency treatment. Japanese police have detained a suspect and are conducting further search operations.
The government and people of Taiwan are shocked and saddened by this significant shooting incident and condemn such acts of violence in the strongest possible terms. President Tsai Ing-wen promptly instructed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) and Taiwanese Representative to Japan Hsieh Chang-ting to convey heartfelt sympathies and best wishes to the Japanese government and the family of former Prime Minister Abe on Taiwan’s behalf. Premier Su Tseng-chang also requested that MOFA convey his best wishes for former Prime Minister Abe’s safe recovery from this grave situation. Furthermore, on behalf of the government and people of Taiwan, MOFA promptly expressed profound concern and sincere sympathies to the Japanese government through the Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association.
Former Prime Minister Abe is a staunch friend and ally of Taiwan. He has spared no effort in supporting Taiwan over the years and has made outstanding contributions to deepening the comprehensive friendship between the two countries. MOFA and the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in Japan will maintain close contact with Japan and continue to monitor related developments. Taiwan sincerely hopes that former Prime Minister Abe is soon out of danger and recovers swiftly. (E)