China has declared that Taiwan will not be allowed to participate in the 79th World Health Assembly scheduled in Geneva from May 18-23. The Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson emphasized that Taiwan is an integral part of China and that only the People’s Republic of China represents the entire nation. Taiwan’s involvement in international organizations like the WHO must adhere to the ‘One-China’ principle.
China asserts that Taiwan is part of its territory and aims for reunification, even by force if necessary. Despite China’s opposition, Taiwan, supported by its populace, asserts its sovereignty and resists Chinese influence. Taiwan’s Foreign Minister is attempting to arrange a visit to Geneva to coincide with the World Health Assembly events, despite not receiving an invitation for the 10th consecutive year.
The World Health Assembly, the WHO’s annual decision-making gathering, has not included Taiwan since 2016. Taiwan has organized events in Geneva alongside the WHA, but no Taiwanese Foreign Minister has ever attended. Taiwan and Switzerland lack official diplomatic relations, making it improbable for Taiwan’s Foreign Minister to visit Geneva officially.
