Three Republic of China (Taiwan) diplomatic allies called for Taiwan’s greater participation in the U.N. system Sept. 20 at the organization’s 72nd General Assembly in New York City.
 
During the assembly, Paraguayan President Horacio Cartes, Swaziland’s King Mswati III and Nauruan President Baron Divavesi Waqa voiced support for Taiwan, with each leader highlighting the nation’s long-term and significant contributions to the international community.
 
Paraguayan President Cartes urged member states to identify appropriate ways for Taiwan to participate in U.N. mechanisms, meetings and activities. He said the country’s 23 million people should be able to exercise their rights and responsibilities as global citizens and establish sustainable partnerships with nations around the world.
 
Cartes also noted that Taiwan has made significant contributions to programs related to the Millennium Development Goals and Sustainable Development Goals, adding that the nation has lent support to many countries, including Paraguay.
 
King Mswati III of Swaziland said Taiwan has proven its commitment to the ideals of the U.N. by working toward the goals set forth by the organization. Humankind, therefore, would greatly benefit from Taiwan’s increased participation in the U.N., he added.
 
Describing Taiwan as a “state that is peaceful, prosperous and happy,” Nauru President Waqa reaffirmed the nation’s ability to make positive contributions to the world’s development. Taiwan has shown its willingness to establish partnerships and collaborate in U.N. agendas and forums such as SDGs, the World Health Assembly and U.N. Framework Convention on Climate Change, he added.
 
Coinciding with this year’s General Assembly, the ROC Ministry of Foreign Affairs launched an international campaign Sept. 11 publicizing the nation’s desire to participate in the U.N. system. The multichannel initiative urges the global body to include Taiwan in its funds, programs and specialized agencies, lift restrictions on ROC nationals entering U.N. facilities and taking part in meetings and tours, and invite Taiwan to attend activities and mechanisms related to SDGs. (KWS-E)
 
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