Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis Affirms Support for Taiwan’s Inclusion in International Organizations

The National Assembly of St. Kitts and Nevis, under the leadership of Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew, has taken a decisive step in solidifying its diplomatic ties with the Republic of China (Taiwan). On April 17th, the Assembly unanimously passed a resolution endorsing Taiwan’s participation in key international and regional organizations. This action underscores the enduring friendship and shared values that underpin the relationship between the two nations, values grounded in democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. The resolution, seconded by Hon. Konris Maynard, serves as a powerful testament to St. Kitts and Nevis’ commitment to advocating for Taiwan’s inclusion on the global stage. It highlights the significant contributions Taiwan has made across various critical sectors, including public health, climate action, aviation safety, and the fight against transnational crime. This resolution marks not only a significant moment in the bilateral relationship but also a bold statement in support of Taiwan’s role in international governance.

The resolution specifically calls for Taiwan’s meaningful participation in prominent international bodies, including the United Nations (UN), the World Health Organization (WHO), the United Nations Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), and the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL). Excluding Taiwan from these organizations, the resolution argues, represents a significant detriment to global cooperation and effectiveness. Taiwan’s expertise and experience in these areas, particularly its successful management of the COVID-19 pandemic and its commitment to sustainable development, would be invaluable assets to these international bodies. By advocating for Taiwan’s inclusion, St. Kitts and Nevis highlights the importance of inclusivity and collaboration in addressing global challenges, emphasizing that the international community as a whole benefits from Taiwan’s active participation.

Prime Minister Drew, in presenting the resolution, underscored the depth and strength of the relationship between St. Kitts and Nevis and Taiwan. He emphasized that the bond between the two nations has grown stronger over time, built on a foundation of mutual respect and shared principles. He highlighted Taiwan’s role as a steadfast partner in public health, particularly in the fight against COVID-19, and acknowledged Taiwan’s substantial contributions to achieving net-zero emissions and strengthening early warning systems for disasters. These collaborations, he articulated, demonstrably benefit both St. Kitts and Nevis and the broader international community, showcasing the tangible advantages of Taiwan’s engagement.

The Prime Minister went on to emphasize the crucial role Taiwan plays in global security and governance. He argued that Taiwan’s inclusion in mechanisms related to transnational crime and international aviation is indispensable for safeguarding global security and facilitating post-pandemic recovery. By excluding Taiwan from these organizations, the international community not only loses valuable expertise but also creates potential security gaps. Taiwan’s strategic location and its experience in combating transnational crime, for instance, make its involvement in INTERPOL essential for effective global law enforcement. Similarly, its inclusion in the ICAO is critical for ensuring the safety and efficiency of international air travel.

The resolution passed by the National Assembly of St. Kitts and Nevis sends a clear message to the international community: Taiwan’s contributions are too valuable to ignore. It calls for a reassessment of Taiwan’s exclusion from these vital international organizations, arguing that inclusive participation is not only a matter of fairness but also a matter of global security and effectiveness. The resolution serves as a strong endorsement of Taiwan’s role as a responsible global actor and reinforces the principle that international cooperation is crucial for addressing the complex challenges facing the world today.

By taking this decisive step, St. Kitts and Nevis has demonstrated its commitment to promoting a more inclusive and effective international system. The resolution signifies the importance of recognizing and incorporating the contributions of all nations, regardless of their political status, in tackling shared global challenges. It also highlights the growing international support for Taiwan’s inclusion in international organizations and sets a precedent for other nations to follow in advocating for Taiwan’s meaningful participation on the world stage. This action by St. Kitts and Nevis strengthens the call for a more representative and collaborative international system that can effectively address the complex challenges of the 21st century.