Islamabad, The Caretaker Prime Minister of Pakistan, Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar, emphasized the need for enhanced international collaboration to effectively respond to health emergencies. He spoke at the inauguration of the two-day global health security summit in Islamabad on Wednesday, calling for the establishment of global frameworks to facilitate information sharing and joint strategies for emergency responses.
According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Prime Minister Kakar highlighted the necessity of extending commitments beyond national borders to establish mechanisms for global funding and support during health crises. He pointed out that new diseases like COVID-19 and climate-induced incidents, such as the historic floods of 2022 in Pakistan, have significant social and economic impacts on health. The Prime Minister underscored the importance of integrating climate resilience into health policies and systems.
During his speech, he advocated for the creation of an international network of health laboratories, sharing best practices and resources as a critical defense against emerging threats. Kakar stressed that health security should be a universal right, not a privilege, and emphasized the lessons learned from COVID-19 about the importance of collaboration, preparedness, and a unified approach.
Furthermore, the Prime Minister called for the establishment of international standards for food safety and the harmonization of regulations to protect populations worldwide. He envisioned a proactive and interconnected global health ecosystem, rather than merely reacting to crises.
Dr. Nadeem Jan, Minister for National Health Services, reiterated Pakistan’s support for global health security and the country’s role in collaborative efforts for a safer world. He emphasized the summit’s reflection of Pakistan’s commitment to health needs, particularly for the underprivileged.
Caretaker Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani also addressed the summit, advocating for amendments to the International Health Regulations of 2005 and the adoption of a pandemic instrument based on principles of equity, inclusiveness, and global solidarity. He spoke about Pakistan’s collaboration with international partners and the WHO in shaping a resilient system through enhanced cooperation. Jilani emphasized the importance of knowledge sharing, access to technology for large-scale production of life-saving medicines and vaccines, and the development of a robust disease surveillance system.
Jilani concluded by praising the Global Health Security Summit as a timely initiative in the post-COVID-19 recovery phase, highlighting its importance in streamlining coordination at the national level and focusing on preventive measures, universal health coverage, and insurance.