April 30, 2009
No. 118
Minister of Foreign Affairs Lawrence Cannon today welcomed confirmation that Taiwan has been invited to participate in the World Health Assembly, the supreme decision-making body for the World Health Organization, from May 18 to 27, 2009.
“The Government of Canada welcomes the statements from health authorities in Beijing and Taipei confirming that Taiwan has been invited to participate in the World Health Assembly as an observer.
“We have long stressed the importance of Taiwan’s meaningful participation in the international health community. This is particularly true as the world again faces the prospect of the rapid spread of a communicable disease. I am delighted that the two sides have come to an agreement on Taiwan’s terms of participation in this critical forum.
“Canada has been encouraged by the improved atmosphere in relations over the last year between Beijing and Taipei. We hope that this step will contribute to a continued easing of tensions.”
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For further information, media representatives may contact:
Natalie Sarafian
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs
613-995-1851
Foreign Affairs Media Relations Office
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada
613-995-1874
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