by
N. Peter Kramer
The government of Taiwan (Republic of China, ROC) let know that it deeply regrets that the President of the Council of ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organisation), Olumuyiwa Benard Aliu, has not invited Taiwan to the 39th ICAO Assembly in Montreal (September 27 to October 7), despite the last precedent three years ago.
The ICAO Assembly is convened once every three years to discuss and formulate aviation regulations and standards to be jointly upheld by countries around the world, so that civil aviation safety can be enhanced in an orderly manner and a seamless sky can be achieved.
It is mere guesswork as to why three years ago ICAO invited Taiwan for its Assembly and yet has not this year. The only reason could be the change of President in Taiwan at the beginning of this year. During his eight years in office former President Ma significantly improved the relationship with the People's Republic of China (Mainland China). However, since Ms Tsai succeeded Ma the relationship has become markedly more grim. It is clear that Mainland China's influence on the UN and its agencies is still inevitable.
The ROC government urges the international community as well as ICAO to recognise the need for Taiwan's involvement in efforts to ensure international aviation safety. Taiwan is situated at a pivotal location, and the Taipei Flight Information Region administered by Taiwan plays an important role in air transport in East Asia. Only through continued participation in the ICAO Assembly and related meetings will Taiwan be in a position to gain insight into the latest developments of important ICAO-related issues, take appropriate measures, and contribute to international aviation safety and development.
The ROC government reiterates that Taiwan's objective in seeking participation in ICAO is to ensure aviation safety through cooperation with other countries and realise ICAO's vision of a seamless sky. Its participation should not be subject to any political considerations. The ROC appreciates the efforts made by its diplomatic allies, the executive and legislative branches of likeminded countries, as well as individuals and groups-through public statements, resolutions, commentaries, and other approaches-to encourage ICAO to support Taiwan's professional, pragmatic, and constructive participation.
