Taiwan eyes Interpol observer role

membership and suggesting that Taiwan contact the National Central Bureau in China. No resolutions or arrangements by Interpol should override the aim of strengthening police cooperation and the prohibition of political interference clearly expressed in its Constitution.

Through participation in Interpol, Taiwan seeks to share experiences in fighting transnational crime.

Taiwan has spared no effort to combat cross-border crime and has solved many criminal cases working with other countries. Earlier this year, Taiwanese and Thai police conducted a crackdown on economic crime, recovering 120 million baht (US$3.69 million) in illicit funds.

Also this year, Taiwan and Philippines police worked together to arrest a city councillor wanted for drug trafficking who had fled to Taiwan. And following a cyber attack on a local bank in October 2017, Taiwan relied on intelligence provided by the National Central Bureaus of Interpol Member States to intercept stolen funds worth over US$60 million. These achievements have received international acclamation. Taiwan wants to contribute more to global initiatives that help create a safer world. A seamless global security network can be ensured only if Taiwan participates in Interpol.

Nations cannot single-handedly fight terrorism, cybercrime, organised and emerging crime. Taiwan’s police should not be left on the sidelines. It is willing and able to stand on the frontlines to fight crossborder crime.

Global security and social justice should transcend regional, ethnic and political differences. We urge you to support Taiwan’s participation in the Interpol General Assembly this year as an observer, as well as in Interpol meetings, mechanisms and training. By speaking up at international events, you can make a real contribution to promote Taiwan’s participation in Interpol.

Tsai Tsan-Po is Commissioner of Taiwan’s Criminal Investigation Bureau. Comments: letters@thesundaily.com