OPINION:
Due to the worldwide impact of COVID-19, the general debate of the 75th session of the U.N. General Assembly is scheduled to convene virtually Sept. 22-26, and on Sept. 29. Now more than ever the high-level session should seriously consider Taiwan’s success story in the pandemic and how Taiwan’s international role may be played out more broadly in critical areas of worldwide coronavirus response.
The residents of Taiwan have worked very hard to keep the virus under control when other parts of the world have not. Taiwan’s coronavirus response is among the best globally. In particular, Taiwan’s rapid and transparent response has been held up as an example of how democracies can still rein in epidemics. Taiwan has defied predictions and successfully contained COVID-19.
The global community must forge the better, more sustainable future called for by the United Nations. Taiwan is ready, willing and able to assist these efforts. Regrettably, the 23.5 million people of Taiwan are denied any access to U.N. efforts.
Taiwan’s inclusion in the U.N. and other appropriate international organizations is important for the entire international community. Taiwan’s people are both willing and able to contribute to the world that still faces a crisis from the coronavirus. As we look ahead to engage in the fight against the pandemic, it is never too late for the U.N. to welcome Taiwan.
KENT WANG
Advisory commissioner for the Overseas Community Affairs Council
Republic of China (Taiwan) in the United States
Potomac Falls, Va.
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