Geneva: President Lai Ching-te stated on Monday that Taiwan's membership in the World Health Organization (WHO) would enable it to significantly enhance its contributions to global health. In a prerecorded video message for the Taiwan Global Health Forum Series, which coincides with the 79th World Health Assembly (WHA), Lai emphasized Taiwan's ongoing commitment to global health as a responsible and reliable partner.
According to Focus Taiwan, Lai highlighted the significant changes in global health dynamics, including rapid technological advancements, aging populations, and the emergence of new infectious diseases. As Taiwan's first president with a medical background, Lai expressed his eagerness to contribute to building a "Healthy Taiwan" and to collaborate internationally.
In his message, Lai outlined Taiwan's vision to engage in dialogue on three key areas at the forum: digital health and artificial intelligence (AI) governance, cancer policy and innovation, and global efforts to eliminate hepatitis C. He noted that digital health and AI are transforming healthcare, and Taiwan is working on a framework to ensure that medical AI is safe and effective.
Lai pointed out that Taiwan's digital health industry is a driving force for innovation, utilizing tools like medical AI and robotics to enhance precision health and quality care. On cancer treatment, Lai mentioned Taiwan's initiatives in prevention and treatment through early screening, precision medicine, and improved access to innovative therapies, along with updates to the National Health Insurance (NHI) system.
Regarding hepatitis C, Lai highlighted Taiwan's achievement of eliminating the disease five years ahead of the WHO's 2030 target, attributing this success to strong governance and a cohesive strategy integrating screening, treatment, and prevention. He underscored the importance of international cooperation for achieving long-term health goals.
Lai concluded by asserting that Taiwan's inclusion in the WHO would enhance its ability to support global health initiatives. The forum, organized by the Ministry of Health and Welfare, takes place at Hotel President Wilson in Geneva, Switzerland, from May 18-19, aligning with the 79th WHA from May 18-23 in the same city.
For the tenth consecutive year, Taiwan has not been invited to the WHA, following China's decision not to allow the "Taiwan region" to participate. Since 2016, Taiwan has not attended the WHA but has continued to organize events in Geneva, where the WHO is headquartered, parallel to the assembly.