There have been lots of discussion on the issues about the recent conflicts in the Middle East in malaysiakini, and the latest developments show that the United Nations is trying its best to resolve the disputes and to restore stability in the Middle East.

It has come to our attention that the 61st session of the UN General Assembly will be convened today. The Middle East situation is expected to be on the UN General Assembly agenda.

Nevertheless, long-standing potential threats to East Asian peace and security deserve equal attention. As a Taiwanese, I would like to remind everyone that in 1996, on the eve of the Taiwan's first direct presidential election, China launched several missiles into the waters off the coast of Taiwan. Since then, China has continued increasing its missiles deployment facing Taiwan, and Taiwan Straits is now one of the most potential flashpoints area in East Asia.

Although the Taiwanese people have demonstrated over the past decade that they will do whatever they can to defend their democracy and go forward firmly even under the antagonistic threat, we still wish to urge the international community to pay particular attention to this situation and take concrete actions to ensure peace and stability in the Taiwan Straits.

Peace across the Taiwan Straits is critical to lasting peace, security and prosperity in Asia Pacific region. The Taiwan government has repeatedly called for the peaceful settlement of political disputes across Taiwan Straits through the UN.

We believe Taiwan's participation in the UN will make the latter a more effective platform for encouraging the peaceful development of cross-straits relations. The appeal for Taiwan's joining in the UN should deserve more attention from the international community.

The writer is director of information division, Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Malaysia.