CALD Chair Champions Universal Values in Japan’s National Diet

The scorching Tokyo summer did little to dissuade Council of Asian Liberals and Democrats (CALD) Chairperson Mardi Seng from making a crucial visit to Japan’s political heart. On July 23, Seng stood before a distinguished audience at the National Diet, lending his voice to a growing regional dialogue on universal values in the Indo-Pacific.

The event, titled Regional Dialogue with the Caucus for Universal Values in the Indo-Pacific, welcomed Seng as its guest of honor. Held within the walls of Japan’s legislature, the gathering drew a cross-section of parliamentarians from across party lines, including His Excellency Gen Nakatani, Japan’s Minister of Defense and current Chairperson of the Parliamentary Caucus.

Formally launched in May 2025, the Parliamentary Caucus for Universal Values already boasts a strong foundation, with 40 sitting members of the Japanese parliament joining the launch. The Caucus is guided by a clear set of objectives:

• To deepen understanding of the issues related to universal values in other countries through parliamentary exchange and dialogue, and propose precise support measures;
• To encourage the Japanese government to play a leading role in defending freedom, democracy, human rights, and the rule of law, in collaboration with G7 countries and partner countries that share universal values; and
• To work with private organizations that promote the sharing and protection of universal values in the Indo-Pacific, and to support strengthening such efforts as well as the foundation of those activities.
  
  

“Japan is uniquely positioned to lead on this front,” Seng emphasized in his remarks. “Its credibility across the Indo-Pacific is both well-earned and well-documented.” He cited the 2024 State of Southeast Asia Report by the ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute, which revealed that Japan is viewed as the most trusted major power in Southeast Asia, garnering 58.9% of support—well ahead of the United States (42.4%) and the European Union (41.5%).

Building on this trust, Seng called on his Japanese counterparts to consider hosting a high-level regional forum of thought leaders focused on the interpretation and application of universal values across diverse political and cultural contexts.

“It is essential that we establish a shared understanding of what these values truly mean,” he said. “Only then can the programs and advocacy efforts of this Caucus remain grounded, coherent, and impactful.”

Joining Seng on the trip was CALD Executive Director Lito Arlegue. The visit also included key meetings facilitated by the Japan Center for International Exchange (JCIE), which played a pivotal role in arranging briefings and extending warm hospitality to the CALD delegation.

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This post was written by CALD