The strong support for Taiwan’s participation in the decision-making body of the WHO shown by diplomatic allies and other like-minded countries at the 74th WHA is deeply appreciated by the government and the people, according to the MOFA May 27. (MOFA)

Staunch support from the international community for Taiwan’s participation in the World Health Assembly is sincerely appreciated by the government and people, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said May 27.

According to the ministry, a total of 14 diplomatic allies, nine like-minded countries and an observer organization issued either direct or indirect statements in support of Taiwan’s participation in the World Health Organization’s decision-making body during their addresses at the 74th WHA meeting, running virtually May 24 to June 1.

Such strong backing from the international community underscores the importance of Taiwan’s inclusion in the WHA amid the COVID-19 pandemic and reflects worldwide recognition of the country’s efforts in ensuring global health security, the MOFA said, adding that Health For All is only possible if the WHO is committed to honoring its promise to Leave No One Behind.

In order to eliminate gaps in the disease prevention network, political considerations should not take precedence over health, the allies said. Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr. personally voiced his support for Taiwan’s bid during the virtual meeting, according to the MOFA.

The expressions of support were also delivered by like-minded partners Australia, Canada, Germany, Japan, New Zealand, the Czech Republic, the U.K., the U.S and observer group the Sovereign Military Order of Malta, the ministry said. Lithuania spoke out for Taiwan for the first time at the annual event, the ministry added.

In a tweet on its official Twitter account, the MOFA said: “The strong showing of support for #Taiwan's meaningful participation in #WHA74 is greatly appreciated by the government & people. Sincere thanks to the country's allies, as well as like-minded partners including the #US, #Japan, #UKF, #Canada, #Australia, #Germany, #NewZealand, #CzechRepublic, #Lithuania & @orderofmalta, for urging @DrTedros to put politics aside & bring #Taiwan into the @WHO fold. Disease is blind to borders, & it takes #AllHandsOnDeck to combat #COVID19 & achieve #HealthForAll.”

The WHO should act in accordance with its founding principle and accept Taiwan’s equal and dignified participation in the activities, mechanisms and meetings of the international health governance system, the MOFA said, adding that Taiwan remains committed to working closely with international partners in the spirit of pragmatism, professionalism and a willingness to contribute to a seamless global health network. (DL-E)