TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Takaichi Sanae, leader of Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party, hailed ties with Taiwan in an X post on Monday, calling Taiwan “an extremely important partner and cherished friend” that shares fundamental values, close economic links, and active people-to-people exchanges.

Sanae, who won the LDP leadership election on Oct. 4, said she hopes to bolster cooperation and exchanges between the two countries.

President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) congratulated Takaichi on her victory on X and praised her as “an unwavering friend to Taiwan,” adding that he looks forward to closer exchanges and cooperation to “elevate Taiwan-Japan relations to a new stage” and contribute to Indo-Pacific security and stability.

He received a letter from her on Taiwan’s National Day, Oct. 10, delivered by a delegation of Japanese lawmakers. The group noticeably excluded high-ranking officials, highlighting Takaichi’s cautious approach to maintaining strong ties with Taiwan while avoiding China’s ire.

Takaichi met Lai in April during a visit to Taiwan and said she hoped for a clean, secure supply chain between Japan and Taiwan.

She could become Japan’s first female prime minister if she garners enough parliamentary support. However, the politician faced a recent setback when the LDP’s coalition partner, Komeito, decided not to continue their alliance over an LDP political slush fund scandal, according to CNN.