Asahi and Sankei highlighted a statement issued by Secretary of State Blinken on Tuesday asking all UN member states for support so that Taiwan can participate in UN organizations in a “meaningful” manner. While pointing out that the island territory was not allowed to attend the WHO’s annual meeting in May due to opposition from China despite its “world-class response” to the COVID-19 pandemic, the top U.S. diplomat said: “Taiwan’s exclusion undermines the important work of the UN and its related bodies.” He underscored that Taiwan’s participation will help “harness the contributions of all stakeholders toward solving our shared challenges.” Sankei said the statement represents the Biden administration’s resolve to defend Taiwan from Beijing’s diplomatic and military attempts to isolate it.