On 2 November, Co-Chairs of the British-Taiwanese All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) Lord Rogan and Nigel Evans MP issued a statement in support of Taiwan’s participation in Interpol as the 87th General Assembly convened from 18-21 November. Citing “unnecessary political considerations” as the reason why Taiwan has not received an invitation, the APPG Co-Chairs said Taiwan’s presence is essential to establishing a reliable and seamless global security network.The parliamentarians pointed out that as the world’s 22nd largest economy and 17th largest exporting country, Taiwan serves as a hub for the movement of capital, goods and people. Taiwan’s ability in sharing international security intelligence and combatting cross-border crime would contribute to global security and counter terrorism efforts, the Co-Chairs stressed. They concluded by voicing their support for Taiwan to gain access to the I-24/7 Global Police Communications System and partake in key training programmes, in order to fill the gap in the global security network and create together a safer world.
On 15 November, Minister of State at the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon issued a written statement saying “the British government believes that people of Taiwan have a valuable contribution to make towards global issues such as organised crime.” The FCO Minister argued that Taiwan’s involvement would “improve the cooperation on issues that pose a risk to the international community, including the United Kingdom and our own people.” In addition, he said the UK is discussing the issue of Taiwan’s participation in Interpol with international partners, including the organisation’s Executive Committee. Minister of State for Policing and Fire Service Nick Hurd also voiced support for Taiwan’s participation in the organisation. Representative Lin thanked the UK for its support of Taiwan in the international community.
