TOKYO -- Japan seeks to deepen its relationship with Taiwan via legislative channels, a top official of the Japanese ruling party said Monday, the day that Lai Ching-te assumed the island's presidency.
In-person talks sought with lawmakers from Washington and Taipei

Toshimitsu Motegi, secretary-general of Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party, has called Taiwan an "irreplaceable friend." (Photo by Ryo Nakamura)
TOKYO -- Japan seeks to deepen its relationship with Taiwan via legislative channels, a top official of the Japanese ruling party said Monday, the day that Lai Ching-te assumed the island's presidency.