Pakistan reaffirms commitment to global health cooperation at World Health Assembly

ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 20th May, 2026) Federal Minister for Health Syed Mustafa Kamal addressed the World Health Assembly in Geneva, emphasizing the need for collective global action, shared responsibility, and strengthened international cooperation to address evolving global health challenges.

Addressing the Assembly, the Federal Minister stated that global health stands at a defining crossroads where the interconnected reality of the modern world demands unified and coordinated efforts among nations, said a press release received here on Wednesday.

Highlighting Pakistan’s healthcare landscape, the Minister noted that Pakistan, with a population exceeding 260 million and more than 6.19 million newborns annually, continues to face significant healthcare challenges. However, he underscored that the country has achieved measurable progress in several key areas of public health.

He informed the Assembly that Pakistan has successfully reduced maternal and child mortality, expanded immunization coverage, and strengthened national responses against tuberculosis, HIV, malaria, dengue, and hepatitis.

The Minister further shared that Pakistan’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Index has improved significantly, rising from 40 percent to 56 percent since 2015.

Referring to polio eradication efforts, Syed Mustafa Kamal reiterated that polio eradication remains Pakistan’s foremost national priority. He acknowledged the sustained support of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative and expressed confidence that Pakistan will achieve the goal of becoming a polio-free country through continued collective efforts.

The Federal Minister also highlighted the Government of Pakistan’s newly launched 10-year Health and Population Strategy, which is anchored in a transformative shift from “sick care” to preventive and people-centred healthcare.

<?php /*?> <?php */?>

He stated that the strategy focuses on building a resilient Primary healthcare system capable of protecting, empowering, and uplifting every individual regardless of geography or circumstances.

He informed participants that Pakistan has approved its first-ever national vaccine policy and is actively advancing indigenous vaccine production through both national and international partnerships.

Emphasizing Pakistan’s contribution to global human resources for health, the Minister stated that the country’s 188 medical colleges produce more than 22,000 skilled doctors annually who serve both Pakistan and countries around the world. He called upon the global community for meaningful co-investment in human capital, describing healthcare professionals as a shared global asset.

On the global level, the Minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s constructive engagement on the World Health Organization Pandemic Agreement and stated that Pakistan will continue participating in efforts to finalize the Pathogen Access and Benefit-Sharing (PABS) Annex on the principles of equity, equal footing, and clear legally binding commitments.

Concluding his address, Syed Mustafa Kamal emphasized that efforts aimed at improving efficiency within the global health architecture must not come at the expense of WHO’s country presence or support for developing nations.

The Minister concluded his remarks by thanking the Chair and reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to global solidarity, equitable healthcare, and strengthened international partnerships for a healthier future.