How is India Contributing to the Pandemic Accord?

Synopsis
In a significant milestone for global health, WHO's Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus appreciates India's vital role in the Pandemic Accord. As nations unite to combat future health crises, India's commitment promises to bridge healthcare disparities worldwide.
Key Takeaways
- India's Role: India is a key signatory of the Pandemic Accord, showcasing its leadership.
- Global Collaboration: The treaty emphasizes the need for collective action against future pandemics.
- Equity in Healthcare: The Accord aims to ensure equitable access to resources for all nations.
- Commitment to Sharing: India is willing to share its experiences and best practices with the Global South.
- Future Focus: A healthy world requires inclusivity and collaboration.
New Delhi, May 22 (NationPress) Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), expressed his gratitude to India for its steadfast commitment and support towards the groundbreaking Pandemic Accord.
After three years of negotiations, the Agreement was unanimously adopted by member nations at the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA) held in Geneva this week.
India stands as a signatory to this treaty, which has been under discussion since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic that claimed millions of lives globally. The goal of the treaty is to address global healthcare disparities and ensure equity in the face of future pandemics.
“Namaste, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, for participating virtually in this historic 78th WHA during the adoption of the Pandemic Accord. We are thankful for India's commitment and support to the WHO,” stated the WHO chief in a social media update.
In his address via videoconferencing, PM Modi highlighted that the WHO Pandemic Treaty represents a collective commitment that necessitates enhanced global collaboration.
“The WHO Pandemic Treaty is a collective effort to combat future pandemics through strengthened global cooperation,” PM Modi remarked, congratulating all involved on the successful treaty negotiations. He also conveyed India’s readiness to share its experiences and best practices, particularly with nations in the Global South.
The Prime Minister stressed the necessity of creating a healthier planet while ensuring inclusivity for all.
“The future of a healthy world hinges on inclusion, a unified vision, and collaboration,” he emphasized.
Moreover, Punya Salila Srivastava, the Union Health Secretary who led the Indian delegation at the WHA, congratulated the WHO and member states on the significant advancements made towards the Pandemic Treaty.
Srivastava highlighted the importance of addressing future health challenges with a commitment to equity.
“The Pandemic Accord must guarantee equitable access to medical countermeasures, timely and transparent data sharing, and promote technology exchange and capacity building, especially for the Global South,” she noted.
She reiterated India’s dedication to global health equity at the 78th WHA.