TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Kaohsiung Youth Bureau Director Lin Kai-hsuan (林楷軒) led a delegation to Kumamoto, Japan, on Monday to discuss youth jobs, training, and startup cooperation tied to the semiconductor industry.
CNA reported that the trip followed cooperation agreements signed during Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chi-mai’s (陳其邁) visit in March. Kaohsiung, Kumamoto, Arizona, and San Antonio have worked to build closer ties in semiconductors and startups.
The delegation met Kumamoto Governor Kimura Takashi, commerce and labor officials, and local assembly members. Talks focused on retaining young talent and creating more opportunities for young people as the semiconductor industry grows.
Kimura said Kumamoto and Kaohsiung have grown closer since TSMC’s Japan unit JASM began operations in Kumamoto. He said semiconductor cooperation has become an important part of the relationship between the two sides.
Kimura said both sides could deepen cooperation by supporting the next generation. He said young people will play an important role in future industrial development.
Lin said next year will mark the 10th anniversary of friendship ties between Kaohsiung, Kumamoto Prefecture, and Kumamoto City. He said the two sides have already worked together in tourism, education, culture, and industry.
Lin said youth jobs and entrepreneurship were included in the cooperation agenda for the first time this year. He said Kaohsiung hopes to connect startup bases, industries, and regular youth exchanges to give young people more international opportunities.
