The Taiwan region’s exclusion from the World Health Organization (WHO) assembly has once again highlighted the unwavering international commitment to the one-China principle, a spokesperson from the Chinese mainland stated on Monday.
“There is only one China in the world, and Taiwan is an inalienable part of China’s territory,” said Chen Binhua, spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, during a press conference.
On the same day, the World Health Assembly (WHA), the highest decision-making body of the WHO, decided not to include a proposal on Taiwan’s participation as an observer in its agenda.
Chen emphasized that the decision reflects the consensus of the international community to adhere to the one-China principle. He noted that any attempts by Taiwan authorities to expand the island’s international space are futile and run counter to the prevailing global sentiment.
The one-China principle asserts that there is only one sovereign state under the name China, encompassing both the Chinese mainland and the Taiwan region. This principle is recognized by the United Nations and forms the basis of China’s diplomatic relations with countries around the world.
Taiwan has sought participation in international organizations such as the WHO, citing public health concerns. However, the Chinese mainland maintains that such participation must be handled in accordance with the one-China principle.
The exclusion of the Taiwan region from the WHO assembly underscores the complexities of cross-strait relations and the importance of diplomatic alignment on international health matters, particularly in the wake of global health challenges.
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Mainland spokesperson on Taiwan region's exclusion from WHO assembly
cgtn.com
