The Ministry of Foreign Affairs Sept. 2 welcomed an announcement by the Israel government Aug. 31 designating Taiwan as a low-risk travel location. (MOFA)

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs Sept. 2 welcomed an announcement by the government of Israel three days ago designating Taiwan as a low-risk travel location.

Effective Aug. 30, select visitors from Taiwan may apply at Israel Economic and Cultural Office in Taipei for a special permit exempting them from quarantine requirements after entering Israel. Those eligible include spouses of Israeli citizens or permanent residents and their minor children, new students for the upcoming academic year, as well as artists, athletes, cultural figures and experts.

Taiwan joined Australia, Ireland, Norway, Portugal, Singapore, Thailand, Uruguay, the UAE, and other 21 countries and territories on the green list released by the Israel government two weeks ago.

The easing of restrictions by Israel demonstrates expanding recognition in the international community of Taiwan’s effective coronavirus response, the MOFA said, adding that the move will also help boost the two sides’ cooperation and exchanges.

According to the MOFA, Taiwan and Israel have a close relationship reflected by coordination in areas spanning agriculture, culture, education, environmental protection, health, technology, tourism and trade. Longstanding collaboration has continued during the coronavirus pandemic with Taiwan’s donations of medical supplies to Israel-based Shamir Medical Center and Magen David Adom—Israel’s Red Cross member organization—as well as several jointly organized disease prevention videoconferences, the ministry added.

The government will continue deepening friendship with Israel while strengthening mutual efforts to combat COVID-19, the MOFA said. (YCH-E)