Taiwan, Japan to deepen tech and security ties

What happened

Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te said at a news conference that Japan and Taiwan should strengthen cooperation in technology, semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and unmanned aircraft, as well as disaster preparedness and maritime security. Lai also expressed hope that a reported U.S. plan to sell arms worth about $14 billion（約2.2兆円） to Taiwan will be realized as soon as possible.

Why it matters

Lai framed the proposed collaboration as a way to establish what he called 'democratic supply chains' that would benefit both Taiwan and Japan while reducing dependence on China's influence. This reflects growing efforts by democracies to reshape global supply chains away from Chinese control, particularly in critical sectors like semiconductors and AI.

What to watch

Lai also addressed maritime boundary talks between Japan and the Philippines covering waters east of Taiwan, saying Taiwan would safeguard its interests in line with international norms. Beijing has opposed these talks and stepped up patrol activities in the region, signaling potential friction over how supply-chain realignment reshapes geopolitics in the Indo-Pacific.