TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Health Minister Shih Chung-liang (石崇良) arrived in Geneva on Saturday, ahead of the World Health Assembly starting Monday.

Shih is leading a delegation to participate in side events and host forums focusing on combating Hepatitis C, early cancer detection and treatment, and digital healthcare, CNA reported. With these forums, Taiwan seeks to share its experience with other countries and engage with international experts, Chiu said.

As Taiwan continues to be excluded from the World Health Organization due to Chinese pressure, it hopes to convey the message that “no one should be left behind,” he said, per CNA. Global epidemic prevention must function as an integrated system without gaps, the minister said. This issue concerns the lives of Taiwan’s 23 million people as well as global public health. 

Therefore, Taiwan must be allowed to participate concretely and meaningfully, which has consistently been its position, Shih said, according to CNA. The minister said that Taiwan will also hold an exhibition spotlighting its smart healthcare and health industry in Geneva.

Shih said that in the coming days, Taiwan’s diplomatic allies and other friendly countries will speak up in support of Taiwan’s participation in WHO-related meetings and activities.

Taiwan was able to participate in the WHA as an observer from 2009 to 2016, but was blocked after former President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) took office.