TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Frank Hsieh (謝長廷), senior adviser to the Presidential Office and former representative to Japan, was awarded the Order of the Rising Sun on Tuesday.

Emperor Naruhito personally conferred the medal, one of Japan’s highest honors, during the Autumn Conferment of Decorations at the Imperial Palace, per CNA.

Hsieh was recognized for his contributions to promoting mutual understanding and friendship between Japan and Taiwan, as well as for helping to strengthen the spirit of mutual assistance during natural disasters or major incidents in both countries.

The former diplomat said receiving the medal was an honor and a meaningful experience, emphasizing that Taiwan and Japan have built a “cycle of goodwill.” 

“This achievement is not mine alone,” he added, “but the result of the hard work and dedication of all my colleagues at Taiwan’s representative office in Japan.”

Hsieh noted that he is the first Taiwanese born after World War II to receive the prestigious award and attend the ceremony in person.

Taiwan’s relations with Japan are at an all-time high. 

Japan Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae said on Friday that Chinese aggression against Taiwan, including a naval blockade, could be considered a “situation threatening Japan’s survival,” forcing Japan to take action. However, she said the response would depend on what China does “to bring Taiwan fully under the control of the government in Beijing.” 

Since taking office in October, Takaichi has pledged to deepen ties with Taiwan. During the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation summit earlier this month, she told Lin Hsin-i (林信義), Taiwan’s APEC representative, that Japan looks forward to deepening practical cooperation with Taiwan and supports Taiwan’s meaningful participation in international organizations.