Caribbean ally seeks Taiwan’s inclusion in international forums
The prime minister of Saint Kitts and Nevis, a Caribbean ally of Taiwan, has called for the Asian island’s inclusion and meaningful participation in international forums, which mainland China, claiming the territory as its own, has traditionally blocked.
Taiwan “can contribute significantly in a positive way,” and “the world is losing a partner” by not having the Asian island at international forums, Saint Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Terrance Drew said in an interview with Kyodo News and other media organizations during a visit to Taipei in late June.
Taiwan is generally barred from many international organizations, particularly the United Nations and its specialized agencies, such as the World Health Organization.
However, Drew said he believes Taiwan holds the potential to offer solutions to many global challenges and can help developing nations by sharing its experience. “Not having that at the table of discussion is a serious loss to the world,” the premier said.
Saint Kitts and Nevis, a dual-island nation with a population of some 47,000, established diplomatic ties with Taipei in 1983.
It is one of 12 remaining countries to keep official diplomatic relations with Taiwan. The other allies include Paraguay, Guatemala, and the Vatican, as well as the Pacific nations of Tuvalu, Palau, and the Marshall Islands.
In January, Nauru severed official ties with Taipei in favor of the mainland, days after current Taiwan leader Lai Ching-te, condemned by Beijing as a separatist, won the territory’s presidential election.
When asked if Beijing has tried to put pressure on his government to switch diplomatic recognition, Drew said his country’s relationship with Taiwan is “strong” and “does not depend on any other factor.”
In his meeting with Drew during the visit, Lai expressed willingness to cooperate with the Caribbean country in such sectors as medicine and public health as well as agricultural technology and women’s empowerment, according to his office.
Taiwan and Communist-ruled China have been governed separately since splitting in 1949 due to a civil war.
