Geneva: Representatives from 11 of Taiwan's diplomatic allies gathered in Geneva on Sunday to show support for Taiwan's inclusion in the World Health Assembly (WHA) meetings, following its exclusion by the World Health Organization (WHO) for the ninth year in a row. The reception, hosted by Taiwan's representative office in Geneva, took place at a hotel just before the start of the 78th WHA, scheduled from May 19-27.

According to Focus Taiwan, all but one of Taiwan's 12 diplomatic allies were present at the event. The Holy See, an observer rather than a member of the United Nations, was the only diplomatic ally not in attendance, as it typically refrains from engaging in political issues during U.N.-related meetings.

The WHO, a specialized U.N. agency responsible for coordinating international public health responses, has consistently excluded Taiwan from its WHA meetings. During the reception, several representatives from Taiwan's allies voiced their strong support for Taiwan's efforts to participate in the WHA. Palau Vice President Raynold "Arnold" Oilouch emphasized his country's commitment to advocating for Taiwan's rightful place in the Assembly, while also expressing gratitude for Taiwan's assistance in developing Palau's health infrastructure.

Haiti's Minister of Public Health and Population, Bertrand Sinal, echoed these sentiments, acknowledging Taiwan's substantial contributions to Haiti's health infrastructure and its pivotal support after the 2010 earthquake, particularly through the operation of the National Ambulance Center. Sinal also highlighted Taiwan's ongoing role in enhancing public security in Haiti and reiterated Haiti's support for Taiwan's participation in international organizations.

Taiwan, officially known as the Republic of China (ROC), has been excluded from the WHO since 1972, following a U.N. decision to recognize the People's Republic of China as the sole legitimate representative of China. Taiwan's efforts to attend the WHA have been hindered by pressure from China, except during the years 2009 to 2016, when Taiwan's then-Kuomintang government maintained warmer relations with China.

Since 2017, Taiwan has been collaborating with its diplomatic allies and friendly nations, such as the U.S., Japan, and the European Union, to secure participation in the WHA, but these efforts have yet to succeed.