Doha, October 17 (QNA) - HE Minister of Public Health Dr. Hanan Mohamed Al Kuwari said that the State of Qatar firmly believes that investing in global health is an investment in global stability, security, and prosperity. Her Excellency added that the State of Qatar was among the first countries in the world to respond to the World Health Organization's plea for a core voluntary contribution in 2021 to support the response to the COVID-19 pandemic and other emergencies.

This came during Her Excellency's participation in the World Health Organizations (WHO) investment round. The event was attended by several esteemed Ministers and senior officials from countries of the Eastern Mediterranean Region, as well as representatives from international, regional, and national organizations.

Her Excellency added, "We stand ready to continue discussions with the World Health Organization to determine our contribution to the financial resources needed to implement the Organizations 14th General Programme of Work. We are confident that this will strengthen health systems globally, making them more resilient and capable of addressing challenges such as pandemics and non-communicable diseases." HE Minister of Public Health, explained that the investment round for the WHO underscores the shared commitment to ensuring the future of global health, saying that "in the face of a rapidly evolving health landscape, securing sustainable and stable funding for the 14th General Programme of Work is not just necessary; it is a moral obligation we owe to future generations." Her Excellency reiterated the importance of strengthening cooperation to ensure that the WHO remains prepared to lead global health efforts in the years ahead, adding, "together, we can create a healthier and more equitable world for all." In her opening remarks, WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean Dr. Hanan Balkhy stressed that "the WHOs investment round aims to ensure that the Organization is in the best position to support Member States and partners in achieving our shared goals." Dr. Balkhy highlighted that "as the global investment case demonstrates, every dollar invested in the Organization generates a return of $35. This is an extremely smart investment. It can help save the lives of another 40 million people, making the lives of billions healthier and safer from harm, while providing them access to the health services they need." Dr. Balkhy emphasized, "predictable, flexible funding for our core work over the next four years is essential for us to achieve the best possible health outcomes." In a pre-recorded speech, WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus highlighted the significance of the investment round, and the solidarity required for sustainable funding for the WHO, emphasizing its importance for global health in achieving "All for Health, Health for All." Several health ministers and senior officials from the Eastern Mediterranean Region also spoke on the importance of sustainable funding for the WHO to ensure greater preparedness and response to health challenges in the region.

During the investment round, pledges amounting to approximately $36 million were gathered to fund the WHO in the Eastern Mediterranean Region.

The event also featured a video presentation on sustainable funding for the WHO in the region and its importance in addressing health challenges.

The 71st session of the WHO Regional Committee for the Eastern Mediterranean, held under the theme "Health Beyond Borders: Action, Access, Equity in the Eastern Mediterranean Region," will conclude today in Doha. (QNA)