TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Foreign Minister Lin Chia‑lung (林佳龍) was in Geneva on Sunday to bolster Taiwan’s bid for meaningful participation in the World Health Assembly through a high‑profile “Taiwan Action Team” advocacy drive.
Lin’s trip continues government efforts to stake a place in global health diplomacy despite being blocked from joining the 79th World Health Assembly in Geneva starting Monday and ending May 23. This extends Taipei’s absence from the body since it was blocked as an observer by China in 2017.
Swiss officials did not grant Lin an official‑status visit, reflecting the lack of formal diplomatic ties between Taiwan and Switzerland, CNA reported. He is coordinating closely with Taiwan’s health ministry delegation on the ground.
Health Minister Shih Chung‑liang (石崇良) is also in Geneva ahead of the assembly to host four forums on hepatitis‑C elimination, cancer care, digital health, and medical‑system resilience. The events carried the slogan: “WHO cares? Taiwan cares.”
The foreign ministry frames the events as a way for Taiwan to contribute expertise on global health, even without a seat at the WHA. Previously, Lin has stressed that Taipei will not “wait passively” for an invitation, per RTI.
