TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Chicago and other Taiwanese organizations called for Taiwan’s inclusion in the World Health Organization during the annual Polish Constitution Day Parade in Chicago on Saturday.

Over 60 Taiwanese Americans joined the parade, carrying banners advocating for participation in the World Health Assembly, according to TECO.

TECO Director General Dennis Yen-Feng Lei (類延峰) said that China misinterprets UN Resolution 2758 to politically isolate Taiwan. Taiwan is both willing and capable of contributing to the international community, Lei said. He stressed that politics should not supersede medical expertise. 

He urged US Midwest communities to support Taiwan’s meaningful participation in the WHO and WHA so Taiwan can assist more nations and help build a future of global health without borders.

Parade organizers highlighted Taiwan and Poland’s joint efforts in the Russian invasion of Ukraine, including humanitarian missions to assist displaced Ukrainian refugees. Organizers also acknowledged Taiwan’s donation of masks and medical supplies to Poland, as well as Poland’s donation of 400,000 AstraZeneca vaccines to Taiwan.

These contributions showcase Taiwan’s role and capacity in international humanitarian cooperation, they said.

The 78th WHA is scheduled from May 19-27.