Mar 8 • 04:27 UTC 🇯🇵 Japan Asahi Shimbun (JP)

Taiwan's Executive Yuan Minister at WBC: 'There is no purpose other than support,' emphasizes private activities

Taiwan's Executive Yuan Minister, Su Tseng-chang, affirmed that his recent visit to Japan for the WBC was solely to support the Taiwanese team, emphasizing that there were no other motives behind the trip.

Su Tseng-chang, Taiwan's Executive Yuan Minister, confirmed his attendance at the World Baseball Classic (WBC) held in Tokyo Dome to show support for the Taiwanese team. In a press interview conducted in Taipei, he stated that his visit had no ulterior motives beyond cheering for the Taiwan team. On the morning of August 8, he attended a public viewing of the game against South Korea in Taipei, where he reiterated that the previous day’s activities were personal and funded privately.

Su arrived in Japan on the morning of August 7 and was accompanied by Taiwan's representative to Japan, Lee Yi-yang, and the sports minister, Lee Yang. They watched the Taiwan vs. Czech Republic game until the sixth inning before returning to Taiwan that same night. His statement highlights the emphasis Taiwan places on international sporting events and the vibrant cultural support for their teams, reinforcing the nation’s identity on the global stage amidst varying diplomatic relations.

The significance of Su's visit is noteworthy as it marks a rare occurrence of an active Executive Yuan Minister visiting Japan since the diplomatic break between the two in 1972, with a previous instance noted in 2004 involving a detour due to a typhoon. His attendance at the WBC showcases a commitment not only to sports but also to drawing attention to Taiwan’s presence and contributions amid complex geopolitical dynamics in the region.

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