The 79th session of the UN General Assembly opens on Sept. 10, with the high-level General Debate on Sept. 24 to 28. As the world prepares for the exploration of solutions to intertwined global challenges to advance peace, security and sustainable development, let us remember that the key to global prosperity lies in unity and inclusivity.
The exclusion of Taiwan from international organizations hinders the world’s ability to develop comprehensive and effective solutions to a growing set of transnational issues.
As world leaders gather in New York, they should deliberate the impact of Taiwan’s exclusion from these bodies and search for new ways to bring Taiwan to the table. The General Assembly presents an opportune moment for world leaders to confront the implications of Taiwan’s exclusion from UN bodies, namely the WHO, the International Civil Aviation Organization and Interpol.
Taiwan’s inclusion in the UN and other appropriate international organizations is important for the nation, the US and the world at large. Ignoring Taiwan’s existence is leading to increasingly farcical consequences.
The US and its allies should stand up and advocate for Taiwan’s participation in international forums such as the UN.
Kent Wang is advisory commissioner for the Overseas Community Affairs Council, Republic of China (Taiwan) in the US.
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