Taipei: The inaugural Abe School of Politics and Economics opened in Taipei on Saturday, bringing together government officials, scholars, and students to examine the legacy of late Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and promote Taiwan-Japan cooperation.
According to Focus Taiwan, the Abe Shinzo Research Center director Li Shih-hui announced that the school had selected 32 participants from more than 60 applicants for the two-day program. This initiative marks the first of its kind dedicated to exploring Abe's political and economic thought. Organized by National Chengchi University's Abe Shinzo Research Center, the school will emphasize action-oriented leadership inspired by Abe's vision, encouraging participants to contribute to their countries and societies through practical engagement.
Mainland Affairs Council Minister Chiu Chui-cheng described Abe as a visionary leader whose "Free and Open Indo-Pacific" strategy has become a guiding framework for regional cooperation. Chiu underscored Taiwan's key role in the Indo-Pacific amid growing geopolitical challenges, including military expansion and coercion by authoritarian regimes, and called for closer collaboration with like-minded partners such as Japan to safeguard regional stability.
Deputy Foreign Minister Chen Ming-chi highlighted the importance of strengthening ties with democratic partners, noting that Taiwan and Japan share values such as freedom, human rights, and the rule of law. Naoya Araki, speaking on behalf of the Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association, expressed optimism that the program would advance Taiwan-Japan ties amid growing geopolitical uncertainty.
In a recorded message, Japanese lawmaker Koichi Hagiuda of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party emphasized that Abe's vision remains a guiding light as the global order faces mounting challenges. The Abe Shinzo Research Center, established on Sept. 21, 2025, is the first institution globally dedicated to the study of his policies, diplomatic strategies, and economic vision, while also promoting cooperation between Taiwan and Japan in areas such as security and trade.
Looking ahead, Li mentioned plans to launch a similar program in Japan in spring 2027, targeting members of Japan's national and local legislatures as participants.