Foreign Minister Joseph Wu called the United Nations’ exclusion of Taiwan a "bad policy." That came in an editorial Wu contributed to the Dutch publication, The Post Online, on Saturday. Wu’s article comes in the leadup to this year’s UN General Assembly, which is set to begin on September 15.
In his article, Wu calls for Taiwan’s meaningful participation in UN meetings and organizations. Wu said Taiwan has proven its ability to respond to various global challenges such as COVID-19. He said Taiwan is working hard towards achieving the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, which include progress in the areas of gender equality, economic growth, and poverty reduction.
The foreign minister said Taiwan has effectively contained COVID-19 within its borders. Taiwan has less than 500 confirmed cases and seven deaths.
Wu said that Taiwan ramped up production of medical supplies during the pandemic. After ensuring that there was enough production to fulfil domestic needs, Taiwan began donating medical supplies to other countries. He said Taiwan is also working with friendly countries to help develop COVID-19 screening reagents and an effective vaccine.
Wu said Taiwan has assisted countries in Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, Latin America ,and the Pacific in the areas of clean energy, pollution treatment, and disaster prevention. He said if Taiwan is allowed to participate in UN activities, it can provide even more assistance to the world.
Wu said the UN’s discriminatory policy toward Taiwan runs contrary to the organization’s principles. He said it is never too late for the UN to include Taiwan.