As the global health community prepares for the 79th World Health Assembly (WHA), scheduled to open on May 18, the Chinese foreign ministry has clarified the status regarding the Taiwan region's participation.
During a regular news briefing on Monday, May 11, 2026, spokesperson Guo Jiakun stated that the Taiwan region has no basis, reason, or right to participate in the upcoming assembly unless approval is granted by the central government.
Addressing media reports that the Taiwan region has not yet been invited to attend the 79th WHA, Guo emphasized the fundamental nature of the one-China principle. He reiterated that there is only one China in the world, and that the Taiwan region is an inalienable part of China's territory. He further stated that the government of the People's Republic of China is the sole legal government representing the whole of China.
The spokesperson noted that China's position on the Taiwan region's participation in the activities of international organizations, including the World Health Organization, remains consistent and clear. This position is handled in line with the one-China principle, which is a fundamental principle demonstrated by United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Resolution 2758 and WHA Resolution 25.1.
Guo attributed the current situation to the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities in the Taiwan region, stating that their stubborn adherence to the separatist stance of "Taiwan independence" means the political foundation for the region's participation in the WHA no longer exists.
To uphold the one-China principle and the sanctity of relevant UNGA and WHA resolutions, China has decided not to approve the Taiwan region's participation in this year's assembly. Guo concluded by warning that any attempts to violate the one-China principle or engage in political manipulation by playing the "Taiwan card" are doomed to failure.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
