US State Department official Susan Thornton says there is no reason to expect that Taiwan will be unable to attend this year’s World Health Assembly (WHA). Thornton is the Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary in the US State Department’s Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs.
The assembly is scheduled to take place in Geneva on May 23, three days after the inauguration of President-elect Tsai Ing-wen. Taiwan has attended the annual WHA as an observer since 2009. But officials have yet to receive an invitation to this year’s WHA, and there are some who think Taiwan may not receive an invitation due to pressure from China. Thornton said that while there are no indications that this will happen, Taiwan must wait and see.
Thornton said the US has always supported Taiwan’s meaningful participation in international organizations that require statehood for membership. She said Taiwan should be able to contribute with dignity when it comes to international issues. Thornton said the US wants Taiwan to be able to use its expertise so that it can have a greater impact on the international stage.
She said that the US has worked hard to increase Taiwan’s participation and leadership in international organizations. These include organizations related to health, women’s rights and economic issues, areas where Taiwan’s experience will be beneficial.