The North American Taiwanese Professors’ Association (NATPA), founded in 1980 and consisting of college professors and professionals in the United States and Canada, expresses shock and sadness at the assassination of former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and extends sincere condolences to Mr. Abe’s family and our Japanese friends for this great loss to all peace-loving people. His memorable career with distinguished heritages has set a great standard for leaders in Japan and the rest of the world in the future.
Prime Minister Abe was a statesman of vision, wisdom, and courage; he had led his country to contribute to the prosperity and freedom of the world. The firm position resisting dictatorship since his first term in 2006 had made Mr. Abe the pioneer who defended human rights against autocratic aggressions in the world. He initiated the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue between Japan and her allies, in the Indo-Pacific region, building on the innovative and robust relations among democracies to promote economic and political liberties. His warm support to Japan’s democratic allies, including the U.S. and Taiwan, shows his goal of maintaining the common good and security of the world.
Prime Minister Abe’s decisive leadership was also evident in the hosting of the Tokyo Olympics in 2020, which restored the confidence in the Japanese people, and the energized economy that ended the two-decade-long economic slump with sustainable growth in Japan. He emerged as a great leader facing countless challenges in his nation and the world.
Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has left a remarkable legacy. During his history-breaking-long service, his leadership has made Japan return to the global stage as an innovative world citizen, earning respect by taking more responsibility to promote universal values. His sincere and warm friendship with the people of Taiwan and the United States will be long remembered and perpetually cherished.
