The Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya addressed the 76th session of the World Health Organization Regional Committee for South-East Asia, today in New Delhi.
WHO, Director-General. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesusalso attended the event virtually. Dr. Mandaviya was also unanimously elected as Chairperson of the 76th session of the regional committee of South-East Asia.
Minister stated “health is the ultimate wealth and with good heath, every task can be accomplished.” He emphasized “In India we are following a holistic and inclusive approach. We are expanding health infrastructure, promoting traditional systems of medicine and providing affordable healthcare to all in alignment with the vison of Universal Health Coverage with the resolute commitment of leaving no one behind.”
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Mandaviya lauded the progress of Ayushman Bharat Health and Wellness Centres (AB-HWC) which have played an instrumental role in providing a comprehensive array of primary healthcare services.
Dr. Mandaviya also addressed the gathering at the tree plantation ceremony taking place at the WHO SEARO Building site, IP Estate, New Delhi stating “The WHO SEARO building stands as a symbol of collaborative effort of India and WHO to address the global challenges with the objective of ensuring inclusive and equitable development of healthcare services in the South-East region.
Dr. Ghebreyesus addressed the gathering virtually. He noted that the 76th Session of SEARO comes at a crucial time point in time, both globally and for the region. He highlighted that the South-East Asia region is home to more than a quarter of the world’s population and must address a significant burden of disease.
Health Ministers of Maldives, Timor Leste, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bangladesh, Indonesia and Bhutan were also present in the session.