Islamabad, In a significant address at the United Nations General Debate on Global Health and Foreign Policy, Ambassador Usman Iqbal Jadoon, Acting Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the UN, emphasized the urgent need for global collaboration to address public health challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and tuberculosis.
According to Pakistan Mission to the United Nations, Ambassador Jadoon highlighted the interconnectedness of global public health and its impact on economic, social, and strategic aspects of nations worldwide. He underscored the urgency of a collaborative and comprehensive approach to address these challenges, adhering to the principles of equity, non-discrimination, and global solidarity.
Ambassador Jadoon pointed out the limitations of current health systems, as evidenced by the COVID-19 pandemic, and stressed the necessity of investing in global health security. He affirmed Pakistan’s commitment to the International Health Regulations (IHR) of 2005 and the collective effort to develop a robust health system for humanity.
The Ambassador also noted the Secretary-General’s report on the progress towards global tuberculosis targets. He expressed concern over the setbacks caused by the pandemic on TB diagnosis and treatment, calling for intensified efforts and increased funding to mitigate these impacts.
Ambassador Jadoon welcomed the adoption of three political declarations by the General Assembly on pandemic prevention, preparedness and response; universal health coverage; and the fight against tuberculosis. He emphasized that achieving SDG-3, which calls for good health and well-being, is crucial, particularly in developing countries where health systems face major challenges.
The Ambassador outlined several key priorities and actions required at national, regional, and international levels to ensure health for all. These include enhancing global health financing, ensuring access to essential healthcare services and medicines, strengthening emergency health preparedness, and addressing the impacts of climate change on health.
Ambassador Jadoon called for the removal of trade barriers and diversification of manufacturing capacities for medical countermeasures, including vaccines, particularly in developing countries. He also expressed support for a legally binding treaty on pandemic preparedness, prevention, and response, based on principles of equity and solidarity, to be adopted at the next World Health Assembly in 2024.
The address by Ambassador Jadoon at the UN General Debate signifies Pakistan’s active role and commitment to addressing global health challenges through collective and coordinated international action.