Kumamoto Prefecture Governor Kei Kimura Visits Taichung Ahead of Earthquake

Governor Kei Kimura of Japan’s Kumamoto Prefecture arrived in Taichung, Taiwan, where he was received by Mayor Lu Shuyi‑an. The two leaders discussed deepening cooperation in the semiconductor sector, economic ties and tourism, referencing recent direct flight links and sister‑city relationships between Kumamoto and several Taichung districts.

Shortly after the meeting, a strong earthquake struck Kumamoto. Mayor Lu immediately called Governor Kimura to express sympathy and concern for the disaster response. Kimura had boarded a direct flight back to Japan from Taichung before the quake occurred; the aircraft was diverted to Fukuoka when Kumamoto Airport temporarily closed. Both officials reiterated the strong Taiwan‑Japan friendship and pledged continued collaboration despite the earthquake’s impact.