标签： Saint Kitts and Nevis

In an era where transnational crime is increasingly complex and interconnected, the exclusion of Taiwan from INTERPOL poses significant challenges to global security. H.E. Edward Ling-wen Tao, Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan) to the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis, has issued a compelling call for Taiwan’s inclusion in the international law enforcement network. Taiwan’s robust law enforcement capabilities and commitment to public safety make it a valuable partner in combating crime, yet its absence from INTERPOL limits its ability to share and access critical intelligence. This gap not only hinders Taiwan’s efforts but also weakens the global fight against crime. INTERPOL, founded on the principle of international cooperation, emphasizes the importance of shared resources and strategies to address threats like human trafficking, terrorism, and cybercrime. Taiwan’s exclusion, however, creates vulnerabilities, particularly in areas such as passport fraud and digital piracy. Despite these challenges, Taiwan has demonstrated its commitment to global security through its active participation in international investigations and its advanced law enforcement systems. The international community is urged to support Taiwan’s bid for observer status at INTERPOL, enabling it to contribute more effectively to the shared goal of a safer world.

In a compelling call for inclusion, Taiwan’s law enforcement authorities have urged for substantive participation in INTERPOL, emphasizing the critical need for real-time intelligence exchange to combat transnational crime. Despite its proven expertise in crime prevention and public safety, Taiwan has been unjustly excluded from INTERPOL for over four decades due to political reasons. This exclusion severely hampers Taiwan’s ability to access vital databases, participate in global law enforcement events, and share information in real time, creating a significant gap in the global security network. Taiwan’s law enforcement agencies have demonstrated remarkable success in combating drug smuggling, cyberfraud, and human trafficking, earning international recognition for their efforts. However, without access to INTERPOL’s I-24/7 global police communications system, Taiwan faces delays in reporting and coordination, which can lead to loss of evidence, failure to apprehend suspects, and increased suffering for victims. The globalization of crime, including the rise of human trafficking-fueled scam centers and cybercrime, underscores the urgent need for enhanced international cooperation. Taiwan’s inclusion in INTERPOL would enable seamless coordination among countries, addressing common threats and safeguarding global stability. Experts, including Dr. John Coyne of the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, have highlighted the detrimental impact of Taiwan’s exclusion on global policing efforts, urging the international community to support Taiwan’s bid for observer status in INTERPOL. Taiwan remains committed to strengthening cooperation with countries worldwide and contributing to the fight against transnational crime.

On November 14, 2025, President Lai Ching-te of Taiwan warmly welcomed Prime Minister Terrance Drew of the Federation of Saint Christopher and Nevis, along with his delegation, to Taiwan. The meeting underscored the enduring diplomatic relationship between the two nations, rooted in mutual respect and shared democratic values. President Lai expressed gratitude for St. Kitts and Nevis’s steadfast support for Taiwan’s international participation and its advocacy for peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. He highlighted significant advancements in bilateral cooperation across various sectors, including agriculture, public health, education, energy, and women’s empowerment, emphasizing the shared commitment to global prosperity. President Lai also congratulated Prime Minister Drew on his recent accolade, the 2025 Most Influential People of African Descent Award, and extended best wishes for St. Kitts and Nevis’s upcoming chairmanship of CARICOM in 2026. The establishment of sister-city ties between Basseterre and Taipei-Tainan was celebrated as a milestone in deepening people-to-people connections. Prime Minister Drew, in turn, lauded Taiwan’s contributions to infrastructure, technology, and talent development, noting the educational opportunities provided to hundreds of students from his nation. He reaffirmed unwavering support for Taiwan’s meaningful participation in international organizations, including the WHO, asserting that Taiwan’s leadership is vital to global progress.

In a significant diplomatic move, Taipei City and Basseterre, the capital of Saint Kitts and Nevis, formalized a Sister City Agreement on November 13, 2025. The ceremony, held in Taipei, was attended by Taipei Mayor Wayne Chiang and Saint Kitts and Nevis’ Ambassador to Taiwan, H.E. Donya Francis. Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew and Taipei City Council Speaker Tai Hsi-Chin were also present to witness the historic signing. This agreement marks a pivotal step in enhancing bilateral cooperation between Taiwan and Saint Kitts and Nevis, building on a 42-year friendship. Mayor Chiang emphasized the importance of the partnership, highlighting future collaboration in education, culture, commerce, tourism, and smart city development. Prime Minister Drew echoed these sentiments, expressing optimism for increased exchanges in smart governance, sustainable development, and cultural initiatives. The agreement follows years of active engagement, including Taipei’s donation of 50 YouBikes in 2023 and Basseterre’s participation in the Taipei Lantern Festival. This new relationship is expected to deepen practical cooperation and reinforce the enduring bond between the two nations.