ASTANA – Kazakhstan is committed to supporting the World Health Organization (WHO) activities, said President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev at an Oct. 23 meeting with WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus and WHO Regional Director for Europe Hans Kluge, reported the Akorda press service.
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev with Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. Photo credit: Akorda.
Tokayev reaffirmed Kazakhstan’s dedication to ongoing cooperation with WHO, highlighting the country’s efforts to strengthen its healthcare system in post-pandemic recovery and to achieve critical public health objectives.
The President said Kazakhstan is committed to promoting universal health coverage, reducing maternal and infant mortality, and the complete elimination of the tuberculosis epidemic, which are the objectives of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals.
“I do understand that it is extremely difficult to lead WHO in this very controversial and very complex world. It is a challenge. You have to deal with so many voices, so many points of view from so many countries and their delegates. You have to mediate between them to come to a very acceptable and compromised decision,” said Tokayev.
Tokayev reaffirmed Kazakhstan’s dedication to ongoing fruitful cooperation with WHO. Photo credit: Akorda.
Ghebreyesus underscored the importance of adopting the Alma-Ata and Astana Declarations to the WHO, mentioning his involvement in developing primary healthcare.
The sides discussed cooperation with WHO within the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and the implementation of a roadmap for health and well-being in Central Asia for 2022-2025.
Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus and Hans Kluge took part in the Walk the Talk short-distance race in the Botanical Garden. Kazakh Health Minister Azhar Giniyat, who also participated in the race, noted that the WHO holds similar health marathons in various countries, demonstrating the commitment to a healthy lifestyle. Photo credit: gov.kz.
Tokayev thanked the WHO officials for their support in hosting the Global Conference and their participation in the event.
