Representatives of several nations have voiced support for Taiwan’s participation in the World Aviation Forum.
The forum is held by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) once every three years. Taiwan has participated in past forums as an observer. However, Taiwan has not been invited to join in this year’s forum, likely due to pressure from Beijing. The Taiwanese delegation has decided to go ahead with its plans to travel to Montreal, where the forum is taking place.
During a meeting with Taiwanese representatives on the sidelines of the forum, Marshall Islands Transportation and Communications Minister Michael J. Halferty said it was regrettable that Taiwan is unable to participate in this year’s forum. Halfterty said the Marshall Islands will provide Taiwan with information that can enhance civil aviation. He also said he hopes that the two sides of the Taiwan Strait can resolve their differences.
Meanwhile, head of the Marshall Islands’ Directorate of Civil Aviation Stanley Myazoe said that one important topic in this year’s forum will be cutting carbon emissions in the aviation industry. Myazoe said that Taiwan should be allowed to participate in discussions on a topic of such global importance.
Rene Roberto Lopez, the head of El Salvador’s Civil Aviation Authority, and Solomon Islands Communication and Aviation Minister Peter Shanel also spoke in favor of Taiwan’s participation in the forum.
The Taiwanese delegation called on representatives from allied nations and friendly countries to speak out for Taiwan at the forum. The delegation also said it will gather information on the proceedings of the forum so that it can help Taiwan fulfill its obligations as part of the international aviation system.