Islamabad, Dr. Nadeem, the Federal Minister for the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations & Coordination (MoNHSR&C) of Pakistan, met with Dr. Tedros, the Director General of the World Health Organization (WHO), during the Global Food Security Summit in London, UK. The meeting focused on the critical health and nutrition situation in Pakistan’s flood-affected areas, impacting over 33 million people. Dr. Nadeem highlighted the efforts of the Pakistani government in tackling these challenges, particularly concerning vulnerable groups such as adolescent girls, mothers, and children.

According to Press Information Department, Dr. Nadeem shared the current government’s vision of reaching communities through Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and emphasized the “Health for all” approach. He expressed gratitude towards WHO for their support in providing necessary equipment and supplies. Dr. Tedros assured WHO’s full support in alleviating the hardships faced in the flood-affected regions of Pakistan and discussed the role of WHO Pakistan in the collective efforts of UN organizations and partners.

The bilateral support extended by WHO Pakistan, especially in addressing nutrition issues affecting women and children, was a key topic of discussion. Dr. Tedros updated on WHO Pakistan’s close collaboration with the Ministry of Health in areas of nutrition in emergencies, indicating a commitment to further strengthening this partnership as needed.

The meeting underscored the ongoing collaboration between the Government of Pakistan and WHO in addressing the severe health and nutrition challenges posed by the recent floods, highlighting a joint effort towards improving the situation of the affected populations.