TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan plans to send a legislative delegation to the 77th World Health Assembly, which begins May 27, to participate in sideline meetings.

Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu (韓國瑜) selected Deputy Speaker Johnny Chiang (江啟臣) to lead three other lawmakers with medical backgrounds to Geneva, Switzerland, and garner support for Taiwan’s participation in the World Health Organization, Liberty Times reported.

Chiang said Taiwan’s participation in international organizations has always been of great concern to the Legislative Yuan. The deputy speaker said he hopes to let the world hear the voice of the Taiwanese.

Chiang also said Han is eager to lead delegations on diplomatic visits during legislative recesses. However, due to a busy schedule ahead of the May 20 presidential inauguration, travel plans and itineraries are still in the planning process.

During last year’s WHA, the Legislative Yuan also sent a team to Geneva to promote the “Taiwan Can Help” campaign. Members from the legislature's Social Welfare and Environmental Hygiene Committee also formed a fact-finding group to keep updated on various medical and health issues. 

Aside from its diplomatic allies, 13 like-minded countries spoke up for Taiwan last year, which was “more than ever before,” per the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This included the U.S., Japan, the U.K., Canada, Australia, France, and Germany.