TAIWAN has expressed its disappointment and regret for not being allowed to attend the 70th World Health Assembly, after they were refused entry by the World Health Organisation.

Health and Welfare Minister for Republic of China conveyed this.

From 22-31 May, members of WHO will gather for the 70th WHA, a global arena to discuss health issues.

Taiwan’s Minister for Health and Welfare Dr Chen Shih-Chung said Taiwan (ROC), as a member of WHO, regrets that political obstruction has resulted in them refused attendance to the technical meeting.

“It is regrettable that political obstruction has resulted in Taiwan’s often is being refused attendance at technical meetings of the WHO, as this situation has created grave difficulties in Taiwan’s efforts to collaborate with the international community on disease prevention,” Dr Chen said.

“We are profoundly disappointed WHO has failed to abide by its Constitution, and ignored widespread support in international community for Taiwan’s participation in the WHA, instead bowing to political pressure from certain member by excluding Taiwan from that body.”

Dr Chen said Taiwan is a longstanding member of WHO, and supportive member state in health activities regardless of race, religion, political belief, economic and social condition.

“Taiwan is capable of and willing to fulfill its responsibilities and to collaborate with WHO to deal with challenges of disease control, and should recognise legitimacy and importance of Taiwan’s participation in WHO and its Assembly,” Dr Chem said.

Minister Chen said they both need each other to bridge the gap in the global disease prevention network.

The Embassy of the ROC (Taiwan) is honoured to express its sincere gratitude and appreciation to the People and Government of Solomon Islands for their continued support for Taiwan’s meaningful participation in the WHA.