TAIPEI - THE United Nations has rejected Taiwan's bid to join the global body, blocking the island's 16th such attempt, officials said on Thursday.

Taiwan this month launched a bid to join the 16 UN Specialised Agencies rather than seeking full membership to the global body. The move was seen as an olive branch to Beijing, which views Taiwan as part of its territory.

However, the UN General Committee on Wednesday decided not to put Taiwan's proposal on the agenda of the UN plenary session.

'We regret it took the decision,' Taiwan's foreign ministry spokesman Mr Henry Chen told AFP. 'There is no chance of getting the proposal to clear the UN floor this year.'

Taiwan lost its UN seat to China in 1971. Beijing opposes the island's efforts to join the body, seeing it as tantamount to seeking independence.

While saying 'China's objection is expected,' Mr Chen called for 'the right of the 23 million people in Taiwan to join international organisations' and urged Beijing to be flexible and help resolve the issue.

Tensions across the Taiwan Strait have eased since President Ma Ying-jeou was elected in Mar on a platform to boost the economy and improve ties with China.

Taiwan and China split in 1949 after a civil war.

Only 23 nations formally recognise Taiwan rather than China. Both sides are accused of using generous financial packages to woo allies away from each other. -- AFP