Over 70 Israeli lawmakers vow support for Taiwan, urge global inclusion

The Knesset members emphasized that the statement reflects gratitude for Taiwan’s ongoing support of Israel and acknowledges Taiwan’s significant contributions to global welfare.

A total of 72 Knesset members, from both coalition and opposition parties, have signed a joint statement on Thursday condemning Taiwan’s exclusion from international forums as “unjustified and irresponsible.”

The statement was initiated by MK Boaz Toporovsky (Yesh Atid), chairman of the Israel-Taiwan Parliamentary Friendship Association, with support from MK Ohad Tal (Religious Zionist Party). Toporovsky and Tal, alongside 70 other Knesset members (excluding Arab parties), called for Taiwan’s inclusion in global organizations, especially in health, transportation, environmental protection, and human rights.

“Taiwan is a thriving democracy committed to the principles of freedom, equality, human rights, and the rule of law, despite a challenging geopolitical environment. We strongly oppose Taiwan’s exclusion from organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO), the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), particularly given Taiwan’s significant contributions during crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, where it played a leading role in finding solutions and offering assistance globally,” the statement reads.

The Knesset members also emphasized that supporting Taiwan’s participation in these international organizations does not conflict with Israel’s “One China” policy. Instead, it reflects gratitude for Taiwan’s ongoing support of Israel and acknowledges Taiwan’s significant contributions to global welfare.

MK Boaz Toporovsky praised the initiative, saying, “Israel will always remember who stood by it in its time of need. After October 7, Taiwan was one of the first to stand by Israel and has continued to support us since. Taiwan backed Israel in the diplomatic arena and promoted assistance for victims, resilience centers, health, education, and more. Members of the Knesset recognize this, as well as the shared values of human rights and democracy.”

“I am proud that the majority of Israeli lawmakers have expressed their gratitude to Taiwan and their support for its continued positive international engagement.”

“I call on Israel’s business, academic, and public sectors to collaborate with their counterparts in Taiwan, a nation driven by innovation and progress, and deeply eager to deepen its cooperation with us,” he concluded.

Taiwan’s continued support for Israel strengthens ties and prosperity

MK Ohad Tal added, “Taiwan is a true friend of Israel and does not hesitate to show it, both in words and in actions. Israel and Taiwan share many common interests, and Taiwan continues to demonstrate its support for Israel again and again, even more so since the beginning of the war. This is our opportunity to show our deep appreciation for Taiwan, to stand by its side, and to support our shared prosperity.”

Taipei Economic and Cultural Office Representative, Ya-Ping (Abby) Lee, also commented on the initiative, saying, “On behalf of the people and government of Taiwan, I wish to express heartfelt thanks for the cross-party support in the Knesset. This joint declaration is a testament not only to your steadfast support for democracy but also to your recognition of Taiwan’s contributions to global affairs and your explicit support for its meaningful participation in international organizations.

This is an unprecedented and historic step that sends a powerful message, not only to the people of Taiwan but to all democracies around the world: that in times of mounting pressure from authoritarian regimes, democracies must stand together in solidarity and speak with one voice.

We are especially encouraged by the Knesset members’ call to deepen ties with Taiwan in economic, technological, and people-to-people fields, and we look forward to seeing these relationships flourish and our friendship thrive, grounded in mutual respect and shared interests.

I would also like to acknowledge the courage and immense hearts of the Knesset members who have championed for Taiwan throughout the years.”