27 Sep 2018

Kiribati and Nauru urge UN to recognise Taiwan

1:46 pm on 27 September 2018

Kiribati and Nauru have urged the United Nations to recognise Taiwan saying the General Assembly's theme of global leadership and shared responsibilities calls for them to do so.

Kiribati President Taneti Maamau speaks during the 72nd session of the General Assembly at the United Nations in New York.

Kiribati President Taneti Maamau speaks during the 72nd session of the General Assembly at the United Nations in New York. Photo: AFP or licensors

Kiribati President, Taneti Maamau, made the call while addressing the Assembly in New York.

He said the meeting's theme implied that the UN is one family, so Taiwan should be included in international processes and discussions.

"This theme will be irrelevant if the UN continues to ignore the 20 million people who live and contribute to our shared home and continue to exclude them from the process."

Nauru President, Baron Waqa, backed up sentiments and said making the United Nations relevant to all people, must include the people of Taiwan.

"The people of Taiwan should be treated equally to those of other nations."

Taiwan lost its seat on the UN in 1971.

Kiribati and Nauru are two of six Pacific nations, including Palau, the Marshall Islands, Solomon Islands and Tuvalu, who recognise Taipei over Beijing.

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