TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The global health system should not leave Taiwan out, President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) said Thursday, after the country was once again not invited to take part in the World Health Assembly as an observer.

Speaking at the Presidential Office while meeting members of Taiwan’s World Health Organization delegation, Lai said the group had returned from Geneva after seeking support for Taiwan’s role in global health affairs. He said 11 diplomatic allies backed Taiwan’s bid to join the WHA as an observer, while 26 countries and the EU also voiced support.

Lai said the support sent a clear message to the international community. He said Taiwan should not be excluded from the global health system because of political factors.

Lai said this year’s WHA theme was “One World for Health.” He said Taiwan is a capable and responsible partner that is willing to help protect public health.

Lai said Taiwan has changed its approach to global health work over the past 10 years. He said Taiwan has moved from waiting for invitations to actively showing the world what it can contribute.

The president said Taiwan has made strong progress in public health, disease prevention, and medical care. He also pointed to Taiwan’s work in smart medicine, AI, and data governance.

Lai said many foreign friends praised Taiwan’s cancer prevention policies at public forums. He said Taiwan’s work to eliminate hepatitis C, a liver disease, also received international recognition.

The president thanked the foreign ministry, economics ministry, and health ministry for working together to hold the Taiwan Smart Medical and Healthcare Industry Expo in Geneva. He said the event helped show Taiwan’s achievements in smart medicine, digital health, and biotechnology.

Lai said health has no borders and is a basic human right. He said the world should not ignore Taiwan when facing major health challenges.

The president said the world must prepare for infectious disease threats, including Ebola. He also said countries must deal with aging populations and new questions created by AI and digital technology.

“Taiwan is willing to stand with the world to protect the health and well-being of all people,” the president said. He said Taiwan has both the ability and determination to make greater contributions to global public health.

Lai thanked the members of the delegation for their efforts. He said he hoped they would continue working for the health rights of Taiwanese and for the health and well-being of people around the world.