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The statement of H.E. Dr. Einollahi, Minister of health of the Islamic Republic of Iran before the WHA76 – 23 May 2023

Statement by:

H.E. Dr. Bahram Einollahi,

Minister of Health and Medical Education, I.R. of Iran

Seventy-Sixth World Health Assembly (WHA76)

Geneva - 21–30 May 2023

بسم الله الرحمن الرحیم

Mr. President,

Honorable Ministers, 

Mr. Director General,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

The World Health Organization has recently announced the end of Covid-19 as a global health emergency. I would like to take this opportunity to express my deep appreciation for the tireless efforts of all dedicated health workers who were involved in responding to the pandemic. Based on our Islamic teachings and Quranic verse, ( مَنْ أَحْیَاهَا فَکَأَنَّمَا أَحْیَا النَّاسَ جَمِیعًا) “whoever saves a life, it will be as if they saved all of humanity”.

Excellencies;

The right to health and enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of health belongs to everyone without distinction of race, religion, political belief, economic or social condition.

Equitable, unhindered and timely access to health products and medical countermeasures in public health emergencies is critical. The unilateral coercive measures, as acknowledged in the report of the relevant UN Special Rapporteur upon her visit to the Islamic republic of Iran, negatively affect the right to health of people living under sanctions.

Alike universal coercive measures, armed conflicts pose public health challenges. Considering the adverse impacts of sanctions and conflicts on heath, public health risks and challenges of people living under sanctions and military occupation, including the Palestinian people, should not be kept out of sight of the World Health Assembly.  

Ladies and gentlemen,

Regional and sub-regional cooperation can play an important role in driving forward health for all. Sub-regional health-oriented initiatives, like G5 initiative in our region, can help improving the resilience of the health systems. G5 initiative was conceptualized and initiated by the I.R of Iran with the participation of Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iraq and the World Health Organization-and Tajikistan as an observer. This sub-regional group is a unique example of south-south cooperation in health area. G5 mechanism has managed to achieve noticeable progress and outcomes over last year at cross-border cooperation level in health domain. We are pleased to share our joint sub-regional health achievements with other regions and countries.

Mr. President,

We believe that the only pathway to ensure the worldwide realization of universal health goals, including “saving lives and driving health for all”, is to enhance the opportunities for meaningful international cooperation and partnership.

I thank you.