Radio Taiwan International
Date: 2017-10-12

A former Japanese member of parliament says visa-free treatment is a key to success

Former Japanese member of parliament Tamazawa Tokuichiro says visa-free treatment is a key to success for Taiwan’s New Southbound policy. (CNA photo)

for Taiwan’s New Southbound policy. Tokuichiro Tamazawa was speaking on Thursday at the second day of the Yushan Forum in Taipei.

The New Southbound policy aims to strengthen Taiwan’s economic and cultural ties with countries in Southeast Asia and South Asia, as well as Australia and New Zealand. The Yushan Forum aims to enhance Taiwan’s soft power as well as cooperation with other Asia-Pacific countries.

Tamazawa brought up the example of Japan granting visa-free status to Taiwanese passport holders ten years ago. Tamazawa said the number of visitors traveling between the two countries has since risen year on year. That factor will contribute to the success of the policy, he said. Tamazawa said visa-free treatment should be granted to countries that meet security regulations.    [FULL  STORY]