A group of 181 lawmakers from 29 African countries has founded the African Formosa Club. This is the latest of several Formosa Clubs in different regions of the world, each tasked with promoting exchanges between their regions and Taiwan.
The African lawmakers formally established their region’s Formosa Club on Tuesday during a video conference. The club's founding members expressed support for Taiwan’s inclusion in international organizations such as the WHO.
During a pre-recorded address, Foreign Minister Joseph Wu told the founding lawmakers that COVID-19 has shown that no country can escape pandemics. He said that Taiwan’s exclusion from the WHO both strips Taiwan of its right to get help during a time of pressing need, and also deprives it of its right to help the international community. Still, Wu said that Taiwan is happy to share its experience and its resources, and he called for continued support for Taiwan’s international participation.
Meanwhile, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Joanne Ou says that the club will help advance the ministry’s African strategy. She says that Taiwan welcomes deeper friendship and cooperation with countries that share its values.