TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) on Saturday congratulated Japan’s Takaichi Sanae on her election as Liberal Democratic Party president.

Lai called Takaichi a staunch friend of Taiwan and said he hopes for deeper cooperation between the two countries, per CNA. He also extended his thanks to outgoing LDP leader Ishiba Shigeru for his support.

The DPP said in a statement that Taiwan and Japan share long-standing ties, especially through the LDP. It said it looks forward to advancing trade and tech collaboration under Takaichi’s leadership.

As for Ishiba, the DPP credited him with strengthening Taiwan-Japan exchanges and repeatedly stressing the need to maintain peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. It said his leadership contributed to regional security and bilateral relations.

Takaichi, 64, is set to become Japan’s first female prime minister. She is seen as a staunch conservative among the LDP.