Health Minister Chiu Tai-yuan (邱泰源) announced that Taiwan will continue its advocacy efforts at the upcoming World Health Assembly (WHA) despite budget constraints. Speaking at the Legislature committee meeting on Thursday, Chiu explained that although the official delegation has been reduced in size due to a 60% cut in foreign travel funding, Taiwan remains committed to securing support from allies and like-minded countries. The 78th WHA is scheduled to begin on May 19 in Geneva, Switzerland, with Taiwan likely facing its ninth consecutive year of exclusion.
Last year, 11 diplomatic allies and 26 countries spoke in support of Taiwan's participation. Opposition Legislator Chen Ching-hui (陳菁徽), who attended last year's WHA peripheral activities, criticized the effectiveness of Taiwan's approach, noting that many events were primarily attended by Taiwanese participants. She suggested inviting internationally renowned Taiwanese medical experts like cardiologist Chen Shih-an (陳適安) to deliver lectures, which would attract greater international attendance and enhance Taiwan's global influence.
Minister Chiu welcomed these recommendations, confirming the ministry's commitment to improving Taiwan's international engagement strategy. He emphasized that the government actively encourages professional medical associations to maintain connections with international organizations and appreciates their contributions to Taiwan's global participation efforts.
Despite the small official delegation, Chiu assured lawmakers that Taiwan would maintain “last year’s capabilities” in advocating for participation in the global health forum. He also encouraged medical experts with independent funding to join the WHA activities, stating that such participation would be highly appreciated by the government.