(BRUSSELS) - The European Union on Friday stressed its opposition to Taiwan's bid to join international organisations in its own right, two days after the United Nations rejected its 16th membership bid.

"The European Union reiterates its policy of One China. It does not support Taiwan membership in international organizations which require statehood," the 27 EU nations said in a statement.

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.

The European Union "takes note that the Taiwanese authorities have adopted a new approach, in promoting the 'meaningful participation' of Taiwan in international activities," the EU said in its statement.

The Union also reiterated its support for Taiwan's participation "in specialized multilateral fora, especially where Taiwan's participation is important to the EU and global interests," encouraging Beijing and Taipei to "solve this issue through dialogue".

The EU also welcomed "the efforts undertaken by both sides in improving cross straits relations, especially agreements on air transport and tourism."

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.

Tensions across the Taiwan Strait have eased since President Ma Ying-jeou was elected in March 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.

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