Jaushieh Joseph Wu
Minister of Foreign Affairs
Republic of China (Taiwan)
October 22, 2022
(As Prepared for Delivery)
Good morning!
On behalf of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, I would like to welcome you all to the 2022 International Organizations Day, which we are marking for the first time. This activity aims to showcase the achievements of Taiwan's participation in various international organizations, and advocate for Taiwan's inclusion in the United Nations system and related agencies.
The theme of today's event, “Stronger Together,” embodies Taiwan's determination to stand with the international community to overcome global challenges and grow stronger together. It also symbolizes Taiwan's international participation in a whole-of-government and whole-of-society team effort.
As a full-fledged democracy, a reliable partner, and a responsible stakeholder within the international community, Taiwan is a force for good that makes substantive and valuable contributions to the world. Currently, Taiwan actively participates in 69 intergovernmental organizations. I am proud to say that in 44 of these, Taiwan enjoys full membership. These organizations cover a wide range of issues that touch every aspect of our lives, including economics, agriculture, fisheries, and industrial productivity, to name a few. Given Taiwan's strengths in these fields, we are willing and ready to share our expertise and collaborate with our partners to advance common values and interests.
Regretfully, due to China's interference, Taiwan's international participation has never been easy. For instance, UN General Assembly Resolution 2758 is often wrongfully invoked to justify Taiwan's exclusion. People from Taiwan are continuously denied access to UN venues and meetings simply because of the passports they hold. We also confront hurdles in coordinating with WHO on pandemic prevention, despite our remarkable track record in responding to COVID-19. Likewise, even though Taiwan is a key hub for international air travel, we are locked out of the ICAO and unable to contribute to important aviation safety initiatives.
These examples show that it remains extremely difficult for Taiwan to share its expertise and help address pressing global issues with international partners. We are grateful to our diplomatic allies and many friends around the world, who have spoken up on our behalf and come to our assistance at various international venues. Taiwan will continue to work with its allies and like-minded partners to advance our shared values of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.
Dear friends, I am confident that by working closely with each other, we can overcome the future challenges. Taiwan and the international community will stand stronger together. Thank you.