Taiwan, a major economy the size of Poland, is seeking to join the International Monetary Fund (IMF), a 190-country organization that provides emergency loans and financial assistance. The Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in Washington stated that Taiwan's IMF membership would enhance financial resilience.
Taiwan is also striving to participate in the U.N. World Health Organization and join Interpol to elevate its global standing. The U.S. and its allies support Taiwan's efforts, but China, viewing Taiwan as a breakaway province, opposes its international recognition.
In 2020, former President Donald Trump endorsed advocating for Taiwan's membership in international organizations. The U.S. State Department emphasized the benefits of Taiwan's expertise in addressing global challenges and pledged to back its participation in relevant groups.
The IMF, where the U.S. and China hold significant influence, has not commented on Taiwan's bid for membership. Concerns have been raised about China's potential economic tactics against Taiwan, prompting calls for IMF inclusion to access financial safeguards.
The U.S. House has passed a bill supporting Taiwan's IMF membership, reflecting bipartisan worries over Beijing's threats to Taiwan's security. Lawmakers argue that Taiwan, a vital player in the global semiconductor supply chain, merits IMF involvement for financial defense.
Despite lacking U.N. recognition, Taiwan's supporters point out that Kosovo, an IMF member without U.N. status, sets a precedent for Taiwan's potential inclusion in international organizations.
