May 18, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s Minister of Health and Mass Media, Dr Nalinda Jayatissa, departed for Switzerland this morning (18) to represent the country at the 78th World Health Assembly, convened by the World Health Organisation (WHO).
The high-level international forum is set to take place in Geneva from May 19 to 27 under the theme “One World for Health”.
This annual assembly brings together health ministers and senior delegates from all WHO member states, providing a platform for global collaboration on pressing public health issues.
This year, more than 15,000 government officials and representatives from various national health sectors are expected to attend, underscoring the significance of international cooperation in shaping the global health agenda.
The event aims to generate inclusive dialogue on a wide range of healthcare topics, with delegates expected to present proposals, share research data, and contribute to the development of long-term health strategies.
Discussions will centre on improving public health systems, tackling transnational health threats, and aligning policy frameworks for better global resilience in future health emergencies.
Dr Jayatissa is accompanied by a high-level delegation that includes Dr Anil Jasinghe, Secretary to the Ministry of Health and Mass Media; Himali Arunatilaka, Sri Lanka’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Geneva; and Nishanthini Victor, First Secretary to the UN Mission in Geneva. The group will engage in bilateral discussions, side events, and strategic forums throughout the assembly’s duration.
The World Health Assembly serves as the WHO’s decision-making body and plays a crucial role in setting international health priorities. This year’s focus reflects the need for cohesive global responses to emerging health challenges, following years of strain on national healthcare systems in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and other concurrent crises.
