China claims Taiwan as a part of its territory and has repeatedly blocked Taiwan's admission to major global bodies, arguing that allowing the self-ruled island even observer status in groups such as the United Nations would give it the trappings of sovereignty.

Former Vice President Lien Chan said he was looking forward to meeting with Chinese President Hu Jintao and Mr Hu's delegation at the Nov 22-23 summit in Lima.

'I will mention the issue of Taiwan's efforts (to obtain observer status) in the World Health Assembly' - the decision making body of the World Health Organisation - when meeting the Chinese delegation, Mr Lien said in a Friday statement.

If Taiwan is allowed observer status, it will be able to join Asia-Pacific efforts to combat health emergencies, outbreaks and epidemics to make the region safer, he said.

Since taking office in May, Taiwan President Ma Ying-jeou has pledged to negotiate with China on opportunities for the island to participate in major international organisations including the United Nations, among other sensitive political issues.

Mr Ma has tried to turn the corner on his predecessor's strident anti-China policy and smooth over perennial tensions across the 160 kilometre-wide) Taiwan Strait, expanding trade ties and direct transportation links between the two sides. -- AP