TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA, 外交部) officially released a popular bilingual cat meme Monday (Nov. 24) supporting Japanese seafood amid China's ongoing import ban. The strategic meme shared across major social media platforms highlights Taiwan's clear diplomatic stance in backing Japan during the recent escalation of diplomatic tensions. The comprehensive social media campaign symbolizes Taiwan's unwavering support for Japan following recent regional conflicts and trade disputes.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi (高市早苗) took a firm stance on the 'Taiwan contingency,' clearly stating that it would directly affect Japan's national security. China's swift retaliatory economic measures prompted Taiwan to highlight the strengthened diplomatic bond between the island and Japan through the strategic meme release. The carefully crafted meme emphasizes deepening friendship between both sides, likening it to revolving sushi and encouraging strong public support for Japanese cuisine.
Taiwan's comprehensive support for Japanese seafood represents a carefully calculated policy decision, not a spontaneous response to recent diplomatic tensions. Taiwan's Ministry of Health and Welfare's (MHW, 衛福部) Food and Drug Administration (FDA, 食藥署) has fully opened Japanese food imports, underscoring the government's strong confidence in their safety. President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) shared his detailed lunch menu on the social media platform X on Nov. 20, revealing he enjoyed Japanese scallops.
Following President Lai's public action, senior officials, including Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍) and Transportation Minister Chen Shih-kai (陳世凱), also publicly enjoyed Japanese scallops and sushi. These coordinated solidarity acts express deep gratitude for Japan's robust support during Taiwan's previous bans on pineapple and agricultural products. The coordinated government response demonstrates Taiwan's strong commitment to strengthening bilateral ties through practical diplomatic gestures. ◼
