Darragh O'Brien
Question:294. Deputy Darragh O'Brien asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his views on Taiwan's continued participation in the World Health Assembly; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22777/17]
View answerTuesday, 16 May 2017
Questions (294)
Written answers
The World Health Assembly (WHA) is attended by Member States of the World Health Organisation (WHO). All countries which are Members of the United Nations may become members of WHO by accepting its Constitution. Taiwan is not a Member State of the United Nations and consequently is not a member of UN subsidiary bodies such as WHO. However, in previous years it has attended the WHA in an observer capacity. Ireland is supportive of attendance by non-members to facilitate co-operation on health matters, where there is agreement amongst all WHO Member States.
Ireland, along with our EU partners, adheres to the One China policy and, as a result, does not have diplomatic relations with Taiwan. The European External Action Service and the European Commission Joint Communication entitled "Elements for a new EU Strategy on China", together with the Foreign Affairs Council Conclusions of 18 July 2016, provides the policy framework for EU engagement with China over the coming years. As stipulated in the Joint Communication, practical solutions should be promoted regarding Taiwan's participation in international frameworks, whenever this is consistent with the EU's One China policy and the EU's policy objectives.