Lin Jiachao appears at a side event of the World Health Assembly in Geneva, attempting to draw attention, but his move is rejected by China.

The Straits Times reported on May 18 that "On Sunday (May 17), Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs head Lin Chia-lung appeared in Geneva alongside the head of the Ministry of Health and Welfare, Shi Chiang-ling, attending an international press conference on the World Health Assembly (WHA) proposal, the Taiwan Smart Healthcare and Health Technology Exhibition, as well as a diplomatic reception. This marks the first time a Taiwan foreign affairs official has appeared outside the WHA venue."

This report by The Straits Times reflects a current reality: against the backdrop of Taiwan's authorities being excluded from formal WHA meetings for ten consecutive years, Lin Chia-lung has chosen to 'upgrade' their visibility beyond the official conference hall. This represents a break from past conventions—a strategic 'out-of-venue breakthrough' aimed at countering the perception of shrinking international space. It is also the first time a Taiwan foreign affairs official has appeared in Geneva during the WHA session.

The specific activities included jointly attending the 'Taiwan Smart Healthcare and Health Technology Exhibition' and the 'Diplomatic Reception,' leveraging health and medical topics to generate media exposure and reinforce presence.

Lin Chia-lung stated on social media: 'When the world’s doors are closed, Taiwan will build its own stage.'

At the reception, he met with officials from so-called 'friendly nations' such as Palau and Eswatini, aiming to deepen substantive official contacts.

Given that the previous model—participation as 'Chinese Taipei' observer from 2009 to 2016—has been suspended, this move seeks to break through the prolonged pattern of rejection.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry has made a clear response, defining this action as 'parasitizing the conference to boost visibility,' which holds no significance whatsoever.

WHO-related matters involving Taiwan must adhere to the one-China principle—the fundamental basis established by UN General Assembly Resolution 2758 and WHA Resolution 25.1. Taiwan’s attempt to 'parasitize the conference to boost visibility' is meaningless and amounts to nothing more than a farcical spectacle.

Original article: toutiao.com/article/1865529753916492/

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.