Japan, U.S. congratulate Lai, vow to keep unofficial ties with Taiwan

Japan and the United States on Saturday congratulated Taiwan's Vice President Lai Ching-te, who heads the ruling, independence-leaning Democratic Progressive Party, on his victory in the self-ruled island's presidential election, pledging to maintain unofficial relations.Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa said in a statement that Japan expects Taiwan will continue to "contribute to the peace and stability in the region" and expressed hope that issues surrounding Taiwan will be resolved "peacefully by dialogue."In the closely watched race amid China's ongoing pressure on the island and …READ FULL ARTICLE