The 78th World Health Assembly (WHA) opened in Geneva this week with a rallying cry for global solidarity under the theme 'One World for Health'. 🩺 Delegates from 194 member states are tackling urgent issues like pandemic preparedness, climate-linked health risks, and sustainable funding for the WHO.
Pandemic Agreement Takes Center Stage
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus called this year's assembly 'historic', as nations edge closer to finalizing a landmark pandemic agreement. After three years of negotiations, the draft aims to prevent future health crises from spiraling into global chaos. 💊
China's Health Diplomacy Highlighted
Lei Haichao, head of China's National Health Commission, spotlighted the country's global health contributions:
🌏 30,000+ medical workers sent to 77 countries since 1964
🩹 500 billion PPE items and 2.3B vaccine doses shared during COVID-19
He reaffirmed China's support for WHO reforms and multilateral cooperation.
Taiwan Participation Addressed
Lei emphasized that 'Taiwan is an inalienable part of China', noting the WHA has repeatedly rejected proposals for the island's observer status. He urged certain countries to stop 'interfering in China's internal affairs' regarding cross-strait matters. ⚖️
Budget Cuts & Climate Concerns
Delegates face tough talks on WHO's proposed 2026-2027 budget, which could shrink by 20% to $4.27B. Meanwhile, climate change's health impacts and antimicrobial resistance rank high among 75 agenda items. 🌡️ The assembly runs through May 27.
