U.S. and Allies Advocate for Taiwan’s Participation in WHO Meeting

The United States and several of its key allies have come together to issue a joint statement urging the World Health Organisation (WHO) to allow Taiwan to participate in an upcoming crucial meeting. Taiwan, a democratically governed island, has been excluded from most international organisations due to objections from China, which claims Taiwan as its territory.

The joint statement, issued by the de facto embassies of the United States and other countries in Taipei, highlighted the importance of Taiwan’s inclusion in the global health system. It emphasized that Taiwan’s exclusion from the World Health Assembly (WHA) undermines international health cooperation and security.

Despite not having formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan, the United States and its allies have consistently advocated for Taiwan’s participation in international forums, much to the dismay of Beijing. China’s Taiwan Affairs Office blamed Taiwan’s ruling party for the exclusion, citing a “lack of political basis.”

The tension between China and Taiwan has escalated with the recent inauguration of Taiwan President Lai Ching-te, whom China views as a separatist. In response, China conducted war games near the island to express its displeasure.

The WHO has stated that Taiwan’s participation is a decision for member states to make. As the 77th session of the World Health Assembly approaches, the call for Taiwan’s inclusion grows louder, highlighting the complex geopolitical dynamics at play in the region.