TOKYO: Japan has appointed a government official to serve as its de facto defence attaché in Taiwan, a step that will annoy China, Western media reported on Tuesday.
Japan has no formal diplomatic presence in in Taiwan and handles bilateral ties through the Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association in Taipei, staffed with government officials.
However, the role of defence attaché has been handled by a retired Japanese armed force official to avoid provoking China.
Japan appoints de facto military attaches to Taiwan
This is the first time that a government official has been appointed as defence attaché to enhance information gathering and links with Taiwan’s military. The move also demonstrates Japan’s support for Taiwan.
Keeping in view the reaction of China, Japan postponed the move last year.
Japan’s defence ministry said that it would only pursue non-governmental relations with Taiwan, a Japanese colony from 1895-1945.
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Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs did not comment on the matter, however, said that it will continue to deepen cooperation with Japan.
China has criticised Japan, the US and other Western nations for pursuing a Cold War mentality by developing ties with Taiwan.
