A statement issued by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken backing Taiwan’s participation in the World Health Assembly is deeply appreciated by the government and people, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs May 2.
 
Citing the fact that Taiwan participated as an observer to the WHA from 2009 to 2016, Blinken said the U.S. strongly encourages the World Health Organization to reinstate an invitation to Taiwan for this year’s WHA so the world may once again benefit from its expertise and experience.
 
According to Blinken, Taiwan has demonstrated a capability and willingness to help address global health crises and support the international health community. The country’s continued exclusion from the forum undermines inclusive global public health cooperation and security, he said, adding that inviting Taiwan to observe the WHA is a critically important step toward affirming the WHO’s goal of Health for All.
 
This is the fourth consecutive year that Blinken has issued a statement backing Taiwan’s WHA bid and it has demonstrated the staunch U.S. support for the country’s participation in international organizations, the MOFA said. It followed recent remarks made by U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs, Daniel Kritenbrink, at hearings held by the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives committees on foreign affairs. He voiced support for Taiwan’s engagement in the WHA as an observer and its involvement in Interpol and the International Civil Aviation Organization, the ministry added.
 
The continued public backing by high-level U.S. officials for Taiwan’s international participation and their recognition of the country as a democratic partner and force for good are sincerely appreciated, the MOFA said, adding that the government is committed to safeguarding its people’s right to global engagement while enhancing close partnerships with the U.S. and other like-minded partners to contribute to the international community.
 
The WHA will hold its 77th annual meeting May 27 to June 1 in Geneva to discuss global public health priorities.


Source: Noticias de Taiwan (https://taiwantoday.tw/index.php)