Malta Backs Groundbreaking Global Pandemic Agreement, Calls For Fairness And Unity
During the 78th World Health Assembly for Health Ministers in Geneva, which is being attended by Minister for Health and Active Ageing Jo Etienne Abela, a global Pandemic Agreement was adopted.
This agreement aims to unite the international community in preparing for and responding to future pandemics. The objective is that, in the event of a global health crisis, all countries will participate in containment measures, diagnostics and preventive resources such as vaccinations.
The agreement invites all countries and regional organisations to take timely and appropriate measures and to prepare the implementation of holistic strategies. Its core principles are global equity and solidarity, ensuring that smaller nations are not left behind.
In his address, Minister Jo Etienne Abela stated that Malta supports this historic initiative, which embraces the concept of global health and multilateral cooperation. He emphasised that for small countries like Malta, it is vital to have guarantees of a safer, fairer, more transparent and united international community. He reiterated that through this agreement, each country would play a role in decision-making during a pandemic and every individual should have access to the highest possible standard of healthcare.
In a discussion on the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East, Minister Abela expressed regret over the collapse of healthcare services and the disruption of food and aid supplies in these war-torn regions. He once again reiterated Malta’s call for peace.
“Malta looks forward to continuing its collaboration with the WHO, with the aim of modernising mental health services, furthering digitalisation, supporting the recruitment and employment of healthcare workers, and promoting active ageing,” Minister Abela concluded.