Introduction
Taiwan has appointed Shigeru Iwasaki, former Chief of Japan’s Self-Defense Forces (SDF) Joint Staff (2012-2014), as a political affairs consultant to the Executive Yuan. Experts believe his appointment is symbolically significant and marks a step forward in Taiwan-Japan security cooperation.
Key Highlights of the Appointment
- Shigeru Iwasaki becomes a political affairs consultant to Taiwan’s Executive Yuan.
- First top-ranking retired Japanese military official to hold an advisory role in Taiwan’s government.
- Expected to enhance Taiwan-Japan military exchanges through his SDF connections.
- Appointment reflects deepening Taiwan-Japan mutual trust on security cooperation.
- Can provide key insights into Japan’s defense policies and strategy.
Why is Iwasaki’s Appointment Significant?
- Japan’s cautious military engagement with Taiwan:
- Japan only appointed a defense attaché to its de facto embassy in Taiwan in 2022.
- Until now, Taiwan had limited engagement with retired Japanese military officials.
- Iwasaki’s strategic connections:
- Maintains strong ties with Japan’s Self-Defense Forces (SDF).
- Previously served as a special policy adviser to Japan’s defense ministry.
- Strengthening Taiwan-Japan security ties:
- His role could pave the way for deeper military cooperation.
- Ensures Taiwan accurately understands Japan’s defense policies and operations.
Expert Opinions on the Appointment
- Hsieh Wen-sheng (Taiwanese Policy Researcher):
- Japan has historically been cautious in military exchanges with Taiwan.
- Iwasaki’s appointment could offer new options for bilateral military cooperation.
- Chen Wen-chia (Taiwan-Japan Academy Senior Adviser):
- The appointment signals growing mutual trust between Taiwan and Japan.
- Iwasaki’s military expertise will help Taiwan avoid misinterpreting Japan’s defense strategies.
FAQs
Who is Shigeru Iwasaki?
Shigeru Iwasaki is a former Chief of Japan’s Self-Defense Forces Joint Staff (2012-2014) and a special policy adviser to Japan’s defense ministry.
Why is his appointment significant for Taiwan?
It marks the first time a high-ranking retired Japanese military officer is directly involved in Taiwan’s government affairs, enhancing Taiwan-Japan military cooperation.
What role will Iwasaki play?
As a political affairs consultant to the Executive Yuan, he is expected to provide advice on security matters and facilitate deeper military exchanges between Taiwan and Japan.
Does this mean Japan is formally increasing military cooperation with Taiwan?
While unofficial, Iwasaki’s role signals a growing security partnership, but Japan still maintains official diplomatic constraints regarding military cooperation with Taiwan.
How does this affect regional security?
Iwasaki’s appointment could strengthen Taiwan-Japan security alignment amid increasing regional tensions, particularly with China’s growing military presence in the Indo-Pacific.
