2003 SESSION

03-2135

01/09

HOUSE RESOLUTION 20

ANALYSIS

This house resolution supports Taiwan's participation in the World Health Organization.

03-2135

01/09

In the Year of Our Lord Two Thousand Three

Whereas, good health is essential to every citizen of the world and access to the highest standards of health information and services is necessary to improve public health; and

Whereas, the World Health Organization (WHO) set forth in the first chapter of its charter the objective of attaining the highest possible level of health for all people; and

Whereas, the achievements of Taiwan, the Republic of China, in the field of health are substantial, including one of the highest life expectancy levels in Asia, maternal and infant mortality rates comparable to those of western countries, the eradication of such infectious diseases as cholera, smallpox, and the plague, and the first to eradicate polio and provide children with Hepatitis B vaccinations; and

Whereas, the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and its Taiwanese counterpart have enjoyed close collaboration on a wide range of public health issues; and

Whereas, in recent years Taiwan has expressed a willingness to assist financially and technically in international health activities supported by the WHO; and

Whereas, direct, unobstructed participation in international health forums and programs is critical to limit the spread of various infectious diseases and achieve world health; and

Whereas, the United States House of Representatives and Senate authorized the Secretary of State to endorse observer status for Taiwan at the World Health Assembly; and

Whereas, President Bush and senior members of his administration have vocalized support for Taiwan's participation in the WHO; now therefore, be it

Resolved by the House of Representatives:

That the New Hampshire house of representatives hereby supports Taiwan's participation in the World Health Organization.