ISLAMABAD, Jan 11 (APP):The Global Health Summit, a two-day event with health ministers from countries, health experts and stakeholders from around the world, concluded on Thursday with a resounding commitment to a unified and coordinated response to emerging health challenges.
The summit provided a platform for insightful discussions, knowledge exchange, and the establishment of collaborative initiatives to strengthen global health security.
The summit presented determination and shared vision among nations, transcending geopolitical boundaries in the pursuit of a common goal.
Discussions covered a wide spectrum of topics, from collaborative preparedness to the critical role of resilient health systems.
Delegates representing diverse corners of the globe shared invaluable insights, emphasizing the interconnectedness of our shared destiny.
Caretaker Federal Minister for Health Dr Nadeem Jan congratulated the participating delegates and participants to make this summit a successful event. “Beyond national interests, we are partners for a common goal – to ensure the health of all.”
He proposed to introduce a Global Health Security Agenda Champion Awards to be bestowed upon the countries or individuals based on their exemplary contributions to the cause.
He also proposed the inclusion of a dedicated special session on global health security in both the annual UNGA and World Health Assembly agendas. This would provide a regular platform for nations to review progress, share insights, and discuss emerging health challenges on a global scale.
A comprehensive five-year global action plan was proposed to guide nations in implementing strategies for enhancing health security.
Dr Nadeem said, “As we conclude this summit, let it not be an endpoint but a launchpad and beginning of the end. Commitments made here must translate into concrete actions in our respective nations. Implementation is the litmus test of our dedication to the ideals espoused during these deliberations.”
Federal Secretary of Health Iftikhar Ali Shalwani stated that it was a “dream come true” to witness the collaborative efforts of policymakers, experts, and stakeholders from around the world.
He emphasized the need for continued collaboration and the implementation of evidence-based strategies to safeguard global health. He underscored the importance of the summit as a platform for forging partnerships and creating a roadmap for collective action.
Dr. Muhammad Ahmed Kazi, Director General of Health, expressed sincere gratitude to participants for their active engagement throughout the summit. He summarized the main highlights of the two-day proceedings of the summit.
On the Pandemic Preparedness and Response, experts emphasized the urgent need to enhance global capacities for prevention, detection, and response.
On the climate Change and Emerging Public Health Threats, A One Health System Approach and harmonization of technological innovations with health systems were recognized as pivotal in addressing climate-induced health threats.
The Ministry of Climate Change was acknowledged as a bridge facilitating collaborations.
On the multi-sectoral Coordination in the Context of “One Health”, the recommendations included developing zoonotic disease surveillance programs, promoting increased coordination, introducing artificial intelligence for disease surveillance, and institutionalizing One Health efforts through a dedicated secretariat.
