Taipei, Oct. 25 (CNA) President Chen Shui-bian expressed concern and sympathy for the people of Japan Monday after the country was hit by a strong typhoon and a series of earthquakes in the past week.
Chen extended his regards on behalf of the Republic of China government and people while meeting with Hisaoki Kamei, an influential member of the lower house of the Japanese Diet.
Chen took advantage of his meeting with Kamei to express his condolences to the families who have lost members to the disasters or have had to seek shelter.
Both Taiwan and Japan are located in earthquake-prone areas and face the threat of typhoons, Chen said, adding that he hopes the two countries can cooperate in research on natural disaster prevention and post-disaster reconstruction technologies.
Touching on bilateral relations, Chen said he looks forward to seeing Taiwan tourists enjoy visa-free treatment by Japan starting from next year.
In the face of mainland China's strong attraction of foreign investment, Chen said Taiwan and Japan should sign a free trade agreement as early as possible to prevent a regional trade imbalance.
Chen said he is convinced a Taiwan-Japan free trade agreement would benefit both sides and contribute to free flow of capital, goods and information as well as help regional economic prosperity.
Chen also expressed his gratitude for Kamei's long-term efforts in promoting friendship and substantive relations between Taiwan and Japan.
Kamei, a senior member of Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party, founded a pro-Taiwan association in his home prefecture of Shimane four years ago to promote commercial and cultural exchanges with Taiwan. He is currently heading a large delegation of association members on a goodwill visit to Taiwan.