Medical groups further Taiwan’s diplomacy

2016/04/08

Taiwan’s commitment to acting as a provider of humanitarian assistance is receiving a significant boost from local medical groups working all over the world.

The policy of medical diplomacy plays an important role in the ROC Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ efforts to strengthen cross-border partnerships. At present, there are regular or emergency aid contingents operating around the globe.

Of these, three long-term medical missions are in Burkina Faso, Sao Tome and Principe, and Swaziland. In addition, personnel training programs are underway for the ROC’s diplomatic allies.

The medical mission in Swaziland’s capital Mbabane comprises volunteer physicians from Taipei Medical University, which has been active in the southern African nation’s four regions since 2008.

Head physician Dr. Tu Chi-cheng said the undertaking is a lifelong dedication. “I will do my best to help the people of this land, until there is no need for my service.” The neurological surgeon’s sentiments are echoed by his peers, who all show a strong willingness to give selflessly to developing Africa.

Such passion is shared by medical groups working in other countries and territories. Southern Taiwan’s Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital completed in March a charity service tour of Vietnam, where many Taiwan-invested firms operate production facilities.

Jack Wang, coordinator for the hospital’s overseas missions, said the tour is a labor of love. “Given Taiwan’s world-leading status in medical care, we are morally obligated to continue giving to those in need.”

This spirit of compassion and empathy is evident in the joint relief team organized by KCGMH and local Nongovernmental organizations to provide emergency assistance in the wake of the magnitude 7.9 earthquake that devastated Nepal last April.

Such undertakings are testament to Taiwan’s reputation as prompt to lend a helping hand when disaster strikes. Nongovernmental organizations like Buddhist Compassion Tzu Chi Foundation, Buddha’s Light International Association, ROC Red Cross Society and Taiwan Root Medical Peace Corps are quick to get boots on the ground in times of need.

Going forward, the MOFA anticipates medical diplomacy to continue opening the door for Taiwan to strengthen its partnerships with countries and territories around the world and play a bigger role on the international stage.

Source: Taiwan Today (http://taiwantoday.tw/ct.asp?xItem=243652&ctNode=2194&mp=9)