Taiwan aims to share health expertise despite WHA exclusion

TAIPEI (TVBS News) — As the World Health Assembly (世界衛生大會, WHA) commenced on Monday (May 27), Taiwan found itself excluded from the event, sparking discussions on its significant contributions to global health and the ongoing struggle for international recognition.

Ray Ming-tse Lu (呂明澤), Director-General of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Melbourne, Australia, voiced his hopes for Taiwan's re-admittance as an observer to the WHA in an interview with The Diplomat on Friday (May 24).

Lu highlighted Taiwan's substantial contributions to global health, emphasizing the nation's readiness to share its wealth of experience and knowledge, particularly in combating non-communicable diseases like cardiovascular diseases and diabetes.

He pointed out that Taiwan's universal health care system could significantly contribute to the World Health Organization's (WHO) goals for 2025 and 2030, including increasing the global population covered by health insurance by 1 billion people. Lu's remarks underscored the critical role Taiwan played during the COVID-19 pandemic, sharing valuable data and experiences with the world.

Despite the support from figures like U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who urged the WHO in May to invite Taiwan as an observer, China's efforts to isolate Taiwan within international frameworks have posed significant challenges.

However, Lu noted a decreasing tolerance for such actions internationally. He stressed that Taiwan continues to engage with the global community through various channels, maintaining close ties with friends worldwide despite being excluded from key international institutions.

Lu's insights reflect a broader call for Taiwan's inclusion in global health discussions, highlighting the island's readiness to contribute further to international health initiatives. As the WHA progresses, the international community's response to calls for Taiwan's participation may signal shifts in the geopolitical landscape affecting global health cooperation.

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