Deputy Foreign Minister Tien Chung-kwang (right) is joined by officials and lawmakers via videoconference during the launch of the Formosa Club Indo-Pacific May 7. (MOFA)
 

The Formosa Club Indo-Pacific was launched May 7 via a videoconference involving Foreign Minister Jaushieh Joseph Wu, Deputy Foreign Minister Tien Chung-kwang and a selection of the 250 lawmakers from 17 countries and territories who have joined the grouping.

In a recorded message, Wu said the interparliamentary organization is built on the values of freedom, democracy and human rights shared between Taiwan and its members. Disease shows no respect for borders, and only a concerted global effort can overcome the challenges posed by COVID-19, he added.

According to Wu, Taiwan is willing and able to share its health care resources and expertise with the rest of the world. Inclusion of Taiwan in the activities, mechanisms and meetings of the World Health Organization will help realize Health For All, he added.

Other high-profile participants in the launch included parliamentarians Shri Sujeet Kumar of India; Pinto Katia, Kiribati; Wong Shuqi, Malaysia; Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Casten Nemra, Marshall Islands; Golriz Ghahraman, James McDowall and Simon O'Connor, New Zealand; Mason Whipps, Palau; and Speaker of Parliament Samuelu Penitala Teo, Tuvalu.


In a tweet on its official Twitter account, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said: “#FormosaClub rolls on! Deputy Minister Tien led lawmakers from 17 #IndoPacific countries in the 1st meeting of the global movement's newest chapter. The forces for good will work with #Taiwan in promoting regional peace, freedom, democracy, prosperity & sustainable development.”

Such strong cross-border backing is deeply appreciated by the government and people, the MOFA said, adding that the club will serve as a platform for friends of Taiwan to discuss further strengthening of ties.

The Formosa Club Indo-Pacific complements chapters successfully opened in Africa, Europe, Latin America and West Asia. It is expected to play a key role in growing Taiwan’s footprint in the region while jointly promoting peace, freedom, democracy, prosperity and sustainable development, according to the MOFA. (DL-E)