Remarks by President Chen Shui-bian at the opening ceremony of "ICN Council of National Representatives and 23rd Quadrennial Congress in 2005"
I am delighted to be here today at the Opening Ceremony of the "ICN Council of National Representatives (CNR) and 23rd Quadrennial Congress in 2005." On behalf of the government of the Republic of China and the people of Taiwan, I would like to extend my heartfelt welcome to the more than 3,000 nursing professionals, scholars, and distinguished guests from 125 member states, who have convened here in Taiwan to participate in this preeminent international health care gala. To all the nursing professionals and dignitaries, I would like to convey my most sincere admiration and appreciation for the outstanding contributions you have made to uplift the nursing profession worldwide and for the improvement of human health. Once again, "Welcome to Taiwan!"
The host of this year's event—Taiwan Nurses Association (TWNA)—was first established in 1914. Since its inception almost a century ago, TWNA has embarked on a mission to elevate the quality of health care for all peoples; promote academic research and professional enrichment in nursing; and strengthen communication, exchange and collaboration with other nursing organizations in Taiwan and abroad. This year, after more than ten years of diligent efforts, TWNA finally won the privilege to host this year's "ICN Quadrennial Congress" and the biennial "ICN Council of National Representatives" here in Taipei. The 2005 ICN Congress not only is a highly anticipated gala for the world's nursing profession, it is a concrete achievement and a testament to Taiwan's activism in global health affairs. To the Taiwan Nurses Association, I would like to applaud you most enthusiastically for your commendable endeavors and contributions.
As is well known, "International Council of Nurses" (ICN) was founded in 1899; now with a 106-year of history, the ICN enjoys the broadest membership base among the world's three major health professional organizations. Moreover, it has also maintained a close partnership with UN's World Health Organization (WHO). Besides focusing on global health and nursing issues, as well as establishing international policies on nursing practices, the ICN has guided the world's nursing profession towards progress and excellence, all in the spirits of "Reverence for Life" and "Leadership by Professionalism." On this occasion, a special thanks also goes to the ICN for your long-term support for Taiwan's bid to participate in the World Health Organization. The ICN is a valued partner to Taiwan in our arduous journey to become a member of the WHO. On behalf of the government and people of Taiwan, I would like to take this opportunity to extend my highest esteem and appreciation to the International Council of Nurses.
While Taiwan's society continues to experience rapid growth, we have steadfastly created economic miracle and democratic achievements; in addition, we have actively pursued the improvement of our people's quality of life, along with the expansion of health-related industries. At present, Taiwan's health care standard ranks second in the world, as the nursing profession continues to undergo prosperous developments. Furthermore, Taiwan's health care professionals have never been absent from international disaster relief efforts or medical missions around the globe. Working indefatigably, we have, and will continue to make contributions to world health.
Though not yet a member of the World Health Organization, Taiwan has always espoused WHO's working objective to promote "Health for all." We stand ready and willing to play a role in international health affairs and fulfill our responsibilities and obligations as a member of the global village. Regrettably, for the ninth year in a row, China's relentless sabotage and political interference have once again stymied our efforts to obtain the WHA Observer status in this year's World Health Assembly. This is not only a great loss to the 23 million people of Taiwan; it represents a stumbling block to the efforts by the international community to make headway in strengthening the global health network.
I would like to reiterate that "Health and Hygiene without border" is a universal belief, and it should not be undermined by any political interference. In the WHO's amendment of the International Health Regulations (IHR) this year, the WHO is set to adopt the principle of universal application. Henceforth, I would like to urge every nation in the world to put into practice this principle of universal application and to allow Taiwan to become a full member of the WHO without further delay—in order to facilitate the collaboration, communication, and sharing of information and experiences between Taiwan and the international community, for the goal of improving the welfare of all humanity.
Looking ahead, Taiwan will continue to seek future opportunities by offering our health care competency to the world and by garnering broader international recognition. It is my earnest hope that all distinguished nursing professionals here will lend us your unstinting support and speak out courageously for the "Inclusion of Taiwan in the WHO," for which we must continue to strive forward, hand-in-hand, towards this noble aspiration.
I am convinced that only by honoring the fundamental tenet of recognizing the "Indivisibility of Health and Human Rights" and "Separation of Medicine and Politics," can the world's health care system progress forward as an integrated whole; and only after realizing the ideal of "Membership for All" can we then stand a chance to achieve the ultimate goal of "Health for All."
I am honored to meet this group of international nursing elite here today. I appeal to all of you to contribute your insight and expert opinions, for the advancement of the nursing profession and human health. Let me once again welcome you on this auspicious occasion. I furthermore would like to invite you to take advantage of this opportunity to observe Taiwan, to experience the culture in Taiwan, and to feel with your heart the magnificent vitality that lies within Taiwan's society!
In closing, I wish the Congress great success and good health and happiness to each of you. Thank you.