The report regarding the transfer of two refugee patients from Taiwan to Nauru by Australian officials (Iranian refugee and son returned to Nauru against medical advice, 14 May) requires further clarification to avoid misunderstanding. The article implies the patients were forcibly returned to Nauru and this was opposed by Taiwanese medical personnel.
In consideration of Taiwan’s high-quality medical facilities and longstanding medical cooperation with Nauru, Australia and Taiwan signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in 2017, in which refugees and asylum seekers staying in Nauru who require urgent medical treatment can be transferred to Taiwan, with valid medical visas and confirmation from medical personnel for the requirement of such treatment. The arrangement is temporary, and the two refugee patients were fully informed of this prior to their arrival in Taiwan and agreed to leave the country once they completed their treatment. According to Taiwan Adventist Hospital, which oversaw their medical treatment, the patients had completed their treatment prior to leaving Taiwan, thereby honouring the terms of the MOU. The implication that the patients were forcibly returned to Nauru by Australian officials or that their transfer was opposed by Taiwanese medical personnel is therefore incorrect.
As a responsible member of the international community, Taiwan remains committed to cooperating with like-minded countries to provide high-quality medical support and humanitarian assistance. Taiwan also firmly believes that health transcends national borders. This case illustrates that Taiwan fulfils these commitments.
Shyang-yun Cheng
Deputy representative, Taipei Representative Office in the UK
