Maldives has attended the 71st World Health Assembly held by World Health Organisation (WHO). The annual assembly held in Geneva, Switzerland is attended by delegations from all 194 member countries from World Health Organisation (WHO).
The main function of World Health Assembly is to determine the policies of the organisation. In this regard, the meeting will also finalise important decisions related to the health sector.
The Maldivian delegation headed by Permanent Representative of the Maldivian Mission in Geneva Dr. Hala Hameed consists of officials from Ministry of Health and staff of Geneva Mission. This year, Permanent Secretary of Health Ministry Khadeeja Abdul Samad Abdulla was elected to the Vice Presidents' Panel of the assembly.
Addressing the assembly, Dr. Hala Hameed reiterated government of Maldives will continue to place health at centre of development agenda and stated strong political commitment has ensured an approach focused on providing integrated, people centered health services in the Maldives. Moreover, Ambassador Hala mentioned the Government has committed itself to Health for All, under the visionary leadership of President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom and the capable stewardship of Health Minister Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim.
During the Assembly, WHO will propose the action plan for the next five years. Moreover, Maldives will hold side events during the assembly and meet with bilateral figures of countries to discuss mutual issues.
The 71st World Health Assembly is taking place from May 21 to 26 at Geneva, Switzerland. It is attended by nearly 4,000 delegates from member states and partner organisations.