Former Top SDF Officer Appointed as Political Advisor to Taiwan's Cabinet
Shigeru Iwasaki, a former top uniformed officer of the Self-Defense Forces (SDF), has been appointed as a political affairs consultant to Taiwan's Cabinet. This appointment is significant as it is extremely rare for a former SDF senior official to take a position in the Taiwanese administration.
Iwasaki served as chief of staff of the Joint Staff of the SDF from January 2012 to October 2014. After retiring, he served as a special policy advisor to the Defense Ministry and received the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Sacred Treasure in 2023.
His appointment as a political advisor to Taiwan's Cabinet is seen as a move by Taiwan to strengthen security ties with Japan. However, it is possible that China will oppose this move.
The position of a political affairs consultant to Taiwan's Executive Yuan is part-time and unpaid. Japanese restaurant owner Takao Nozaki was the first foreigner to be appointed in the past.
Iwasaki's appointment comes at a time of heightened tensions in the region, with China increasing its military activity near Taiwan. It remains to be seen how Iwasaki's appointment will impact the security relationship between Taiwan and Japan.
6 Comments
Karamba
Hoping this leads to more collaboration and cooperation in the region. We all stand to benefit from increased interaction.
Matzomaster
Hope this doesn't backfire on everyone. This feels like a recipe for trouble.
Rotfront
Bravo, Iwasaki! Your expertise will be invaluable to Taiwan. 👍
Matzomaster
Japan should focus on its own problems. We have enough challenges to handle without getting involved in Taiwan's affairs.
Rotfront
Seems like Japan is playing both sides of the fence. This doesn't inspire confidence.
BuggaBoom
Shouldn't he be looking out for Japan's interests, not Taiwan's? This appointment feels misplaced.