Malta has welcomed the adoption of the Global Agreement on Pandemics, which took place during a meeting in Geneva.

During the 78th meeting of Health Ministers in Geneva, which is being attended by the Minister for Health and Active Ageing Jo Etienne Abela, an agreement (Pandemic Agreement) was adopted that unites the international community in preparing for and responding to a possible pandemic.

This is with the intention that when a threat of a global tragedy develops, all countries will participate in containment measures, diagnostics and preventive resources (e.g. vaccination).

The Government explained that this agreement calls on all countries and regional organisations to take appropriate and timely measures and prepare for the implementation of holistic strategies. The main principles are fairness and solidarity throughout the world, without leaving small members behind.

Minister Jo Etienne Abela said that Malta supports this historic effort that favours the concept of global health and multilateral cooperation. He explained that for small countries like Malta, it is crucial to have a guarantee of a more secure, fair, transparent and united international community.

He reiterated that through this agreement, during a pandemic every country has a role in decisions and every person will be able to benefit from health services of the highest possible level.

In a discussion on the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East, Minister Abela noted with regret the collapse of health services and the supply of food and aid in these war zones. Here, Minister Abela reiterated Malta’s call for peace.

“Malta looks forward to continuing to collaborate with the WHO, with the aim of modernising mental health services, continuing to develop digitalisation, supporting recruitment and staffing of the health sector, and promoting active ageing,” concluded Minister Abela.

Photo: DOI

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