From left to right: President Baron Divavesi Waqa, President Horacio Manuel Cartes Jara, and King Mswati III; photo courtesy of CNA
New York, Sept. 20 (CNA) Three of Taiwan's diplomatic allies spoke up in support of Taiwan's participation at the United Nations during the U.N. General Assembly on Wednesday.
During the general debate, which is the annual meeting of heads of state and government at the beginning of the General Assembly session, leaders from Paraguay, Swaziland and the Republic of Nauru spoke up in favor of Taiwan's participation at the U.N.
Paraguayan President Horacio Manuel Cartes Jara remarked that "The Republic of China (Taiwan) has, through international collaborations, promoted programs related to the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). With years of history aiding Paraguay and other countries, Taiwan has made effective contributions to the world."
The president went on to ask on behalf of Paraguay that U.N. members work to find a way to enable Taiwan to participate in the U.N. including attending U.N. meetings and events, so its 23 million people can form alliances with countries around the world and officially take on the responsibility of global citizens.
King Mswati III of Swaziland pointed out Taiwan's proven commitment to U.N ideals and goals, despite being denied participation in the international organization.
Speaking about Taiwan's priority development goals, many of which mirror the U.N.'s MDGs and SDGs, Mswati III said, "If Taiwan were a member of the U.N., humanity could benefit from Taiwan's experience in promoting these global issues."
Nauru President Baron Divavesi Waqa expressed confidence in Taiwan's ability to contribute to the peaceful development of the world.
He listed a number of organizations and treaties, including the World Health Organization, the U.N. Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization and the U.N. Framework Convention on Climate Change, that Taiwan is eager to assist with its technological and economic abilities.
In closing, Waqa reiterated his thanks for the long term support Taiwan and other countries have given Nauru.
The general debate this year has been scheduled for six days, Sept. 19-23 and Sept. 25. Other diplomatic allies of Taiwan, including leaders from Haiti, Burkina Faso, El Salvador, Tuvalu and the Republic of Palau, are all scheduled to speak in the upcoming days.
