Bel©m: Representatives from diplomatic allies Eswatini, Palau, the Marshall Islands, Tuvalu, and St. Kitts and Nevis called for an end to Taiwan’s exclusion from United Nations climate negotiations, ahead of the 30th Conference of Parties in Bel©m, Brazil.

According to Focus Taiwan, on Friday, President of Palau Surangel S. Whipps, Jr. urged attendees to “reaffirm our defining principle — leaving no one behind.” He highlighted that despite Taiwan’s strong climate ambitions, it continues to be excluded from the process. He stressed that every capable partner, including Taiwan, must have a seat at the table.

Marshall Islands Foreign Minister Kalani Kaneko emphasized the necessity for every nation to be part of the solution to climate change. He reiterated the Marshall Islands’ long-standing call for Taiwan’s inclusion in the UNFCCC process, warning that the silencing of nations’ voices is detrimental to democracy.

Tuvaluan Environment Minister Maina Vakafua Talia also supported Taiwan’s inclusion, stating that Taiwan needed to be “in the equation.” St. Kitts and Nevis Minister of Environment Joyelle Clarke noted Taiwan’s assistance in her country’s grid modernization, underscoring the importance of Taiwan’s participation.

Eswatini’s Prime Minister Russell Dlamini underlined the need for all members of the global community to confront climate change challenges, especially those who remain excluded from full participation, such as Taiwan.

In a news release, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) of Taiwan thanked its diplomatic allies for their support. It reiterated Taiwan’s commitment to working with its allies and like-minded countries to promote concrete climate action.

The upcoming UNFCCC Conference of Parties, known as COP30, is scheduled from November 10 to 21. This annual conference, which has been held since the first U.N. climate agreement in 1992, serves as a platform for governments to discuss and agree on climate policies.

Taiwan, officially the Republic of China, has been excluded from the U.N. and its special agencies since 1971, when the People’s Republic of China took its place. Despite this, Taiwanese officials have participated in the annual conference through the government-funded Industrial Technology Research Institute since 1995.