Taiwanese fans were stopped from cheering at the Asian Games in Nagoya, sparking controversy. A Japanese local assembly member has spoken out in support of Taiwan — a positive signal for Taiwan-Japan relations, but one that also exposes Taiwan's long-standing difficulties at international sporting events.

• During the semi-final between Taiwan and China, Taiwanese fans who held up towels bearing the word "Taiwan" were stopped by staff. Fans at the venue expressed their displeasure by chanting "Team Taiwan."
• Kobe City assembly member Uehata Hirohiro has submitted a petition to Japan's Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, calling for clarification of how the Games handled Taiwanese athletes and spectators.
• He argues that enforcement of the Olympic Council of Asia's rules on names and flags should not go beyond what is necessary, and certainly should not deny Taiwanese people their own identity and feelings.
• The petition sets out five demands, including establishing the facts, examining whether any practices harmed the dignity of Taiwanese people, and calling on the Games organisers and the Olympic Council of Asia to make immediate improvements and prevent a recurrence.
• Before the match, a notice banning the Republic of China flag and the Rising Sun flag was posted at the stadium entrance, only to be taken down later — an indication that enforcement of the rules has itself been inconsistent.

Outlook: Although the Japanese government is not the host of the Games, it has set up an Asian Games support headquarters within the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology. Whether it steps in to mediate will be a key point to watch for Taiwan-Japan relations.