Taipei, Nov. 12 (CNA) President Chen Shui-bian expressed hope Friday that Taiwan will be allowed to participate in the World Health Assembly (WHA) as an observer in two years.
Chen pointed out that Taiwan has tried to join the World Health Organization (WHO) but has failed on each occasion over the past eight years.
He urged politicians across party lines to continue to work together with the government to help Taiwan succeed in his goal of membership in two years, saying that for the health and well-being of the Taiwan people, the country must not be left out of the world body.
Chen made the remarks at a Doctor's Day celebration organized by the Taiwan Medical Association.
He also promised that the government will gather the opinions of different sectors and work out plans to reform and improve the National Health Insurance program.
Reminding the public that the program is not supposed to be a kind of social welfare, Chen urged the public to cherish medical resources to sustain the operation of the program.