IJR News — today's news from every sideElena Vasquez This deal could strengthen the whole freight network but only if it avoids creating service problems for shippers. Japan, Taiwan seek to mend ties with China — Aug 24, 2026A cross-party group of Japanese lawmakers, including a member of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's party, traveled to Beijing to mend strained China relations after Takaichi's Taiwan remarks, with officials saying communications have been severed and a window for dialogue may be sought, while Takaichi warned that a Chinese attack on Taiwan could threaten Japan and justify the use of force. Separately, Taiwan's Deputy Legislative Speaker Johnny Chiang led a delegation to Tokyo to attend the Asian-Pacific Parliamentarians’ Union meetings to bolster parliamentary diplomacy with Japan, focusing on trade, culture, and regional supply-chain resilience.