Taiwanese media outlet China Times reported on the 3rd that while the name of Taiwan's president was omitted from Japan's 'gratitude list,' the heartwarming actions of the Kaohsiung mayor garnered attention from Japanese media. The article explained, regarding the Kumamoto earthquake that occurred on the 28th of last month, 'While extensive damage occurred and calls for support poured in from the international community, it garnered attention that there was no mention of Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te (Lai Ching-te) in Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's first message of gratitude posted on social media.' On the 30th, Prime Minister Takaichi on X (formerly Twitter) expressed gratitude for the condolences regarding the Kumamoto earthquake from various world leaders, but while she mentioned South Korean President Lee Jae-myung, French President Macron, Italian Prime Minister Meloni, Brazilian President Lula, Serbian President Vučić, and Romanian President Dan, she did not mention President Lai. After the Kumamoto earthquake, President Lai posted on X in Chinese and Japanese, expressing condolences on behalf of the people of Taiwan, and stating, 'We are ready to provide necessary assistance.' President Lai, Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim (Xiao Meiqin), and Premier Cho Jung-tai (Zhuo Rongtai) had each announced their personal donations of 200,000 New Taiwan Dollars (approximately 1 million Japanese Yen). This matter caused controversy on the internet in Japan and Taiwan. Meanwhile, according to the article, the Kaohsiung City Government held the '2026 Taiwan-Japan Fruit Festival' last weekend. More than 100 booths were set up, featuring fruits from Taiwan and Japan, as well as unique brand stalls. Various events were held, including popular band performances, lectures by farmers, and fruit-themed experiential games. A total of 120,000 people reportedly visited the event. Furthermore, a special 'Kumamoto Support Booth' was also set up at the event venue. Donations for Kumamoto were collected at the venue, and the city's Mayor Chen Chi-mai (Chen Chi-mai) wrote a message of support for Kumamoto on a cheering board. Warm messages were also received from visitors, such as 'We love Kumamoto,' 'Kaohsiung is with you,' 'If friends encounter difficulties, Taiwan will surely support them,' and 'We wish for a swift recovery.' The article praised these initiatives, stating that 'they demonstrated the deep friendship between Taiwan and Japan, who support each other,' and reported that the event was also featured on NHK WORLD. (Translation/Editing/Kitada)