Veteran Journalist Yaita Akio Attacked; Taiwanese Community in Japan Calls for Review of Entry System

(CNA Tokyo, July 8) In response to the recent violent attack on veteran journalist and commentator Yaita Akio in Taiwan, the "All Japan Taiwanese Federation," a Taiwanese community group in Japan, issued a statement today strongly condemning any act that obstructs freedom of speech through violence. The group called for severe punishment of the perpetrators and urged the Taiwanese government to treat this case as a national security issue, promptly reviewing the current entry and related legal systems to prevent foreign interference.

The statement pointed out that Yaita Akio was violently attacked on July 6 while giving a speech in Taiwan, an incident of a grave nature. Regardless of the reason, obstructing speech activities through violence and threatening the freedom of a democratic society is absolutely unacceptable. The federation not only severely condemns the violent act but also wishes Yaita Akio a speedy recovery.

The All Japan Taiwanese Federation also mentioned that China implemented the "Law on the Promotion of Ethnic Unity and Progress" starting July 1. It is self-proclaimed that this law's scope extends overseas and includes absurd content requiring people to identify with the "Chinese nation" consciousness, posing a threat to the fundamental values of democratic societies such as freedom of thought, conscience, and expression, and has also caused serious concern in the international community.

The statement expressed high regard for this violent incident and strong concern over China's continued expansion of overseas influence and its intimidating actions.

The statement also called on the Taiwanese government and political parties of all stripes not to treat this case as a single incident and hastily close the case. Instead, they should promptly review the current legal system to prevent foreign forces from exploiting Taiwan's free and open social environment and convenient entry system, entering Taiwan through "third countries or regions" such as Hong Kong and Macau, and engaging in activities that endanger national security and public safety.

The All Japan Taiwanese Federation stated that it will continue to cooperate with Taiwan and the international community in the future to jointly protect Taiwan's freedom, democracy, and rule of law. (Editor: Wei Shu) 1150708

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