Taiwan Supporters Rally in New York for U.N. Inclusion

Taipei: More than 100 Taiwanese Americans, Taiwanese lawmakers, and members of civic groups marched through New York City on Saturday to advocate for the inclusion of the Republic of China (Taiwan) in the United Nations. The event also saw the participation of John Silk, U.N. envoy of the Marshall Islands, who attended to show solidarity. According to Focus Taiwan, participants of the march chanted slogans such as "UN for Taiwan" and "Keep Taiwan Free" as they traversed central Manhattan, passing notable landmarks like Times Square and Bryant Park before concluding near the New York Public Library. This annual event brought together Taiwanese community groups from across the U.S. East Coast. Silk, serving as the permanent representative to the U.N. from the Republic of the Marshall Islands, voiced hope that Taiwan would eventually participate in U.N. meetings as a member. He emphasized that this aspiration is shared by Taiwan, the Marshall Islands, and the broader international community. Leading the march were Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) lawmaker Wang Yi-chuan and Shih Shu-hua, head of the Taiwan United Nations Alliance. Wang stated to CNA that the annual march is a platform for Taiwan to express its stance near the U.N. headquarters. Numerous foreign onlookers paused to capture the event through photos or videos, often signaling their support with a thumbs-up upon hearing the "UN for Taiwan" chants. Wang highlighted that this event serves as a significant opportunity to promote Taiwan on the global stage. Additionally, Wang underscored Taiwan's role in the international community, particularly citing its semiconductor and technology industries. He expressed optimism that ongoing campaigns would continue to amplify Taiwan's voice among U.N. member states, potentially facilitating Taiwan's eventual membership in the organization under its own name. Apart from the march, Taiwan's government is actively engaging in promotional activities in New York during the ongoing U.N. General Assembly session to ra ise awareness about Taiwan's exclusion from the U.N. system. Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reiterated its commitment to seeking international support for Taiwan's involvement in U.N. activities and related organizations. The 81st Session of the U.N. General Assembly commenced on September 8, with the high-level General Debate slated for September 22-28.