Taiwan Journal

A group of more than 80 visually impaired and their families from Japan visited the National Palace Museum Nov. 17. They were the first to enjoy a special exhibition featuring replicas of pieces from the museum's collection. The members of the group were invited to touch them while a guide explained the objects' history. (CNA)

Trade body grants ROC membership

The Geneva-based Agency for International Trade Information and Cooperation voted Nov. 14 to admit Taiwan as a sponsoring member.

Originally granted observer status just a year ago under the island's World Trade Organization moniker, "Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu," Taiwan was able to take part in AITIC meetings and related activities but could not vote. Following its change of status, the island will now be able to add its full weight to the organization's goal of assisting less-developed countries to fully participate in WTO activities.

According to Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesman Chang Chi-ping, MOFA is pleased to see this latest development concerning Taiwan's participation in international organizations. "This advance will offer Taiwan the chance to further contribute toward global development," he said. Regarding the question of whether ...