Former Japanese Prime Minister Aso's call for defending Taiwan against China's assertiveness causes controversy, drawing both support and criticism. The Japanese government emphasizes the importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, while China strongly criticizes Aso's remark, accusing Japan of interfering in its internal affairs. Aso's visit to Taiwan marked the most senior Japanese official since 1972, and the United States recently announced a Taiwan weapons aid package worth up to $345 million.

Japan's Taiwan Defense Stance