Pro-Taiwan U.S. Senator Inhofe passes away; Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te expresses condolences
James Inhofe (Jim Inhofe), who served for many years as a U.S. Senator, has passed away. Having served in the Senate since 2003, he was known as a prominent politician and a key member of the "pro-Taiwan" faction, which places particular importance on relations with Taiwan within the U.S. Congress.
During his lifetime, Inhofe visited Taiwan on three occasions. Notably, in 2022, he led a bipartisan delegation to Taiwan to deepen discussions on Taiwan's security and the cooperative relationship between the two nations. For the people and government of Taiwan, he was one of their most important partners.
Upon hearing the news of his passing, Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te expressed his deep condolences. President Lai called Inhofe a "true friend of Taiwan" and expressed his gratitude for the dedication Inhofe showed toward Taiwan's democracy and peace.
For Japan as well, the relationship between the United States and Taiwan is a critical issue that significantly impacts regional stability. This news signifies the loss of a powerful American politician who supported Taiwan, and the potential impact on the future international situation is being closely watched.