Taiwan's representative to Japan, Lee I-yang (李逸洋), said Monday that his decision to boycott a Nagasaki atomic bombing memorial ceremony over the seating arrangement was intended to prevent China from establishing a precedent for downgrading Taiwan’s status at events in Japan.

Lee took to Facebook, writing that accepting treatment below that afforded to diplomatic delegations could create a domino effect, allowing China to use what he called the “Nagasaki model” to pressure other events and organizers in Japan.

If Taiwan obediently submits, Lee said, the consequences would likely extend far beyond a simple seating arrangement at a ceremony.

The representative declined to attend Sunday’s ceremony marking the 81st anniversary of the atomic bombing of Nagasaki in Japan after Taiwan’s delegation was reassigned to a seating area outside the embassy district. He said his decision is made from a “strategic perspective” to defend Taiwan’s national dignity.

Lee rejected suggestions that the dispute showed Taiwan-Japan relations were deteriorating, citing increased security, trade, and cultural exchanges during his two years as representative.

Lee pointed to Japanese military vessels transiting the Taiwan Strait and Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's statement that a crisis in Taiwan “could become a situation threatening Japan’s survival.”

Taiwan-Japan friendship is deep and unquestionable, Lee stated. He urged the public to not allow the seating dispute in Nagasaki undermine broader bilateral relations.