The Secretary for Food and Health, Professor Sophia Chan, attended the 74th World Health Assembly (WHA74) of the World Health Organization (WHO) via video conferencing today (May 24) as a member of the Chinese delegation.
In light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the WHA74 takes place virtually from May 24 to June 1. The theme of the WHA74 is ending the current pandemic and preventing the next one by building a healthier, safer and fairer world, and will focus on topics such as COVID-19 response and preparedness, and ensuring equal access to health services for all within the context of the pandemic. The WHA74 will also cover other public health issues including mental health, antimicrobial resistance, and non-communicable diseases, etc.
"As we continue to march ahead in the fight against COVID-19, international co-operation has become more important than ever in putting an end to the pandemic which has ravaged the world for over a year now. The global community must work together to prepare for the post-pandemic era once the pandemic has subsided, such as managing the risks of reopening borders and resuming international economic activities, and devising effective strategies to prevent the next pandemic in the future," Professor Chan said.
"I have the pleasure of gaining many insights on COVID-19 and other public health issues from today's discussions and exchanges among leading experts from the member states. The Government will continue to maintain close co-operation with the WHO and health authorities of its member states on various fronts, in order to stay abreast of the global situation and protect the health of Hong Kong people," she added.
The Permanent Secretary for Food and Health (Health), Mr Thomas Chan; the Director of Health, Dr Constance Chan; and the Controller of the Centre for Health Protection of the Department of Health, Dr Ronald Lam, are also members of the Chinese delegation.
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