Prime Minister Harris Calls For Global Health Partnerships At The UN General Assembly

Basseterre, St. Kitts, September 28 , 2020 (ZIZ News): St Kitts and Nevis has once again renewed its call for Taiwan’s inclusion in the United Nations.

Addressing the 75th Session of the United Nations General Assembly on Saturday, Prime Minister Dr. Hon. Timothy Harris said “The Republic of China (Taiwan) remains a valuable partner for peace, prosperity and development with the fullest respect for international law.

He said “Taiwan has stayed true to its longstanding traditions and has remained a true partner in the fight against COVID-19.

We have seen first-hand Taiwan’s exemplary management of the pandemic within its own borders and we have been impressed by its willingness to help vulnerable states around the world. Taiwan has assisted many states in combating this unprecedented health pandemic by sending more than 51 Million surgical masks as well as other medical equipment to more than 80 countries.>>
The Prime Minister said he is of the view that the international community has been deprived of the gift of true partnership offered by the 23.5 million people of Taiwan.

My hope is that Taiwan can be included in the UN system, particularly the WHO – its meetings, mechanisms and activities thereby improving the global response and resources available to address transboundary crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic. The exclusion of Taiwan – its experience, expertise and resources, leaves a partial vacuum in the global response to COVID-19. The World Health Organisation can only benefit from the inclusion of such a worthy member.

Prime Minister Harris also used the opportunity to also express the view that the existence of the antiquated embargo against Cuba flies against the desired spirit of global partnership. He said “At this time more than ever vulnerable Nations must be free to access Cuba’s expertise in health, and a myriad of other areas of global concern.”