TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) marked his first year in office Tuesday (May 20) with a ceremonial address at the Presidential Office (總統府), where Japanese celebrity journalist Sakurai Sho (櫻井翔) attracted significant attention among the assembled press corps. Sakurai's presence followed his exclusive interview with President Lai for Japan's influential "News Zero" program, during which the former pop idol turned respected broadcaster gained rare access to Taiwan's leadership.
During his media appearance, Sakurai revealed that President Lai conducted their entire 90-minute interview without consulting prepared materials, maintaining steady eye contact throughout their extensive conversation. The wide-ranging discussion covered Lai's reflections on his first year in office, the evolving relationship between Taiwan and Japan, and the complex cross-strait situation with China. Sakurai, demonstrating his evolution from entertainment idol to serious journalist, engaged Lai in substantive dialogue about Taiwan's military service policies and regional security challenges.
The formal atmosphere of the anniversary address briefly lightened when Sakurai greeted the Taiwanese president in Mandarin Chinese, showcasing his linguistic preparation for the high-profile assignment. President Lai, visibly appreciative of the gesture, responded with a warm smile and acknowledged Sakurai's significant popularity among Taiwanese audiences. Their comfortable interaction reflected the broader diplomatic warmth that has characterized recent Taiwan-Japan relations despite the absence of formal diplomatic ties between the two democracies. ◼
