Blinken Supports Taiwan’s Participation in WHA, Taiwan’s Foreign Ministry Expresses Gratitude

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of China (Taiwan) today expressed sincere welcome and gratitude in response to the strong encouragement from U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken for Taiwan to participate as an observer in the World Health Assembly (WHA).

In a press release issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs today, it was mentioned that Secretary Blinken stated on May 1 in the United States that Taiwan had participated as an observer in the WHA from 2009 to 2016. He strongly urges the World Health Organization (WHO) to invite Taiwan as an observer to the 77th WHA, allowing the world to once again benefit from Taiwan’s expertise and experience.

In addition to highly commending Taiwan’s public health expertise, as well as its ability and willingness to assist in global health crises and support the global health community, Blinken’s statement pointed out that Taiwan’s exclusion from the WHA weakens global public health cooperation and security. Inviting Taiwan to attend the WHA is seen as an extremely important step in achieving the WHO’s goal of “Health for all”.

As the 77th WHA is about to convene, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs noted that Secretary Blinken’s statement once again demonstrates strong U.S. support for Taiwan’s participation in international organizations. Furthermore, Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Daniel Kritenbrink recently expressed clear support for Taiwan to participate as an observer in the WHA, as well as in organizations such as the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and INTERPOL at hearings of the Foreign Affairs Committees of both houses of the U.S. Congress.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the continued public support from senior U.S. officials for Taiwan’s international participation, and the recognition of Taiwan as a democratic and benevolent force and partner that can contribute to the international community, is sincerely welcomed and appreciated. “Our government will continue to defend the rights of the Taiwanese people to participate internationally, and strengthen close cooperation with countries that share similar values, including the United States, to further contribute to the international community on the basis of existing good foundations.”