BASSETERRE, St. Kitts, CMC – The St. Kitts and Nevis government has reaffirmed its “principled support” for the “meaningful participation” of Taiwan in the work and meetings of the World Health Organization (WHO).
Basseterre also wants Taiwan, which China regards as a renegade province, to participate in the 158th session of the WHO executive board. From February 2-7.
“As a Federation, we firmly believe that global health challenges transcend borders and politics. Issues such as communicable and non-communicable diseases, pandemic preparedness, mental health, maternal and child nutrition, and universal health coverage require inclusive cooperation and the collective engagement of all capable partners,” The government said in a statement.
It said that excluding any responsible, technologically advanced health system from international health discussions undermines the effectiveness of the global public health architecture.
St. Kitts and Nevis, which is among a handful of Caribbean Community (CARICOM) countries with diplomatic relations with Taiwan, said the Asian country “has consistently demonstrated its commitment to advancing public health, strengthening healthcare delivery systems, promoting innovation in digital health, and contributing expertise and resources to international humanitarian and medical initiatives.
Its experience in disease prevention, universal health coverage, and health technology innovation represents valuable knowledge that can benefit the wider international community.
“St Kitts and Nevis, therefore, supports Taiwan’s meaningful participation in the WHO and related mechanisms practically and constructively, which allows for the sharing of expertise, data, and best practices.
“Such participation is not only consistent with the universal right to health but also aligns with the shared global objective of ensuring health security and well-being for all peoples.”
The Terrance Drew administration said it reiterates its longstanding position that international cooperation in health “must remain inclusive, people-centered, and guided by the common good.
“At a time when the world continues to confront complex and evolving health threats, unity and collaboration remain indispensable.
“St. Kitts and Nevis stands ready to work with all partners in the international community to advance a resilient, equitable, and effective global health system in which no capable contributor is left unheard,” the government added.
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