Lai's actions escalate cross-Strait tensions

Q&A

Q: What is the Chinese government's policy on handling multilateral affairs related to Taiwan?

A: For intergovernmental organizations that only accept sovereign states as members, Taiwan, as part of China, cannot have the qualifications to join as a formal member. From 2009 to 2016, Taiwan was consistently invited to the World Health Assembly as an observer under the designation "Chinese Taipei". Similarly, in September 2013, the International Civil Aviation Organization extended an invitation for Taiwan to participate in the 38th ICAO Assembly as a guest under the name "Chinese Taipei". These invitations were extended within the framework of the one-China principle and peaceful cross-Strait relations, following consultations and in line with international norms.

The Democratic Progressive Party administration's adherence to a separatist stance of "Taiwan independence" and refusal to acknowledge the 1992 Consensus has undermined the political basis for Taiwan's involvement in the WHA. Consequently, since 2016, the mainland has not endorsed Taiwan's participation in the ICAO Assembly, and Taiwan's involvement in the WHA has been suspended since 2017.

Despite these challenges, the central government remains committed to the well-being of Taiwan compatriots. Adequate arrangements have been made for Taiwan's participation in global health initiatives, enabling Taiwan experts to engage in WHO's technical activities and promptly access health emergency information.

Regarding intergovernmental organizations that permit regional participation beyond sovereign states, the Chinese government, while upholding the one-China principle, addresses Taiwan's involvement through tailored arrangements. Since the 1980s, Taiwan has joined various intergovernmental bodies, such as the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation, under the name "Chinese Taipei".

In dealing with non-intergovernmental international organizations, pragmatic and adaptable measures have been adopted to facilitate Taiwan's participation without compromising the one-China principle. For instance, in November 1979, the International Olympic Committee restored China's rights within the IOC, leading to the transformation of the Taiwan Olympic Committee into the Chinese Taipei Olympic Committee, allowing continued participation in IOC activities.

Currently, Taiwan's relevant institutions often adopt titles like "Taiwan, China" or "Chinese Taiwan", as well as "Taipei, China" or "Chinese Taipei", when engaging as regional members in international nongovernmental organizations.

SOURCE: STATE COUNCIL TAIWAN AFFAIRS OFFICE