ISLAMABAD, Aug 03 (APP):The World Health Organization (WHO), in collaboration with the Government of Pakistan and leading business figures, has launched the country's first WHO Public-Private Council to strengthen the health system. The council was formed to mobilize private sector support, and accelerate progress towards universal health coverage and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Council was formally inaugurated by WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean Dr Hanan Balkhy, …
WHO launches first public-private health council
ISLAMABAD, Aug 03 (APP):The World Health Organization (WHO), in collaboration with the Government of Pakistan and leading business figures, has launched the country’s first WHO Public-Private Council to strengthen the health system.
The council was formed to mobilize private sector support, and accelerate progress towards universal health coverage and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The Council was formally inaugurated by WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean Dr Hanan Balkhy, Federal Secretary for National Health Services Muhammad Aslam Ghauri, WHO Representative in Pakistan Dr Luo Dapeng, Council Chair Aziz Memon, and 20 founding members representing Pakistan’s business community and academia.
The initiative aims to establish a long-term partnership between WHO, the government and the private sector to improve public health by leveraging business expertise, financing, technology, logistics and innovation.
Speaking at the launch, Dr Hanan Balkhy said the Council would unite business and philanthropic leaders with WHO to promote a healthier and more prosperous Pakistan.
She noted that the partnership would strengthen advocacy for health, enhance investment in health systems, and create sustainable solutions benefiting communities across the country.
Council Chair Aziz Memon described the platform as a landmark step that brings Pakistan’s health and economic leadership together.
He said the partnership would provide a structured and transparent mechanism for businesses to contribute to national health priorities in collaboration with WHO.
Federal Secretary for Health Muhammad Aslam Ghauri said the Council comes at a crucial time as Pakistan begins implementing its National Health Strategy 2026–2035, which aims to achieve universal health coverage.
He emphasized that achieving these goals requires active participation from all sectors, including the private sector.
WHO Representative in Pakistan Dr Luo Dapeng highlighted the critical role of public-private partnerships in improving healthcare outcomes.
He said the Council would not only mobilize resources but also amplify the voice of business leaders in promoting healthier communities, adding that a healthier population is fundamental to a stronger and more prosperous Pakistan.
The newly established Council is the first WHO platform of its kind in Pakistan and is expected to strengthen collaboration among government, WHO, businesses and academia to support national and global health priorities.
