Geneva: The Sultanate of Oman is actively participating in the 79th World Health Assembly, which commenced at the United Nations headquarters in Geneva. This significant gathering brings together health ministers and representatives from member states to deliberate on pressing global health issues and challenges.
According to Oman News Agency, the Omani delegation is headed by Dr. Hilal bin Ali Al Sabti, Minister of Health. In his address, Dr. Al Sabti highlighted the necessity for an integrated framework to tackle current health challenges, emphasizing four key pillars: strengthening primary healthcare and prevention, investing in data and innovation, enhancing health system resilience, and ensuring sustainability.
Dr. Al Sabti also noted that Oman is undertaking comprehensive health reforms aligned with Oman Vision 2040. These reforms include developing digital health infrastructure, enhancing data governance, expanding prevention and early detection measures, supporting mental health initiatives, boosting national immunization efforts, and improving emergency preparedness.
Further, he underscored the need to reform global health governance to adapt to rapid changes by enhancing coordination among international initiatives, supporting national capacities, and facilitating knowledge exchange. This, he suggested, would lead to a more equitable and efficient global health response.
The ongoing World Health Assembly focuses on several strategic health topics, such as health financing, digital health, and the reform of global health architecture. Discussions also revolve around the implications of armed conflict on health and follow-up actions from the UN High-Level Meeting on Non-Communicable Diseases.
Additionally, Dr. Al Sabti participated in the 'Arab-Swiss High-Level Health Dialogue' organized by the Arab-Swiss Chamber of Commerce and Industry. This event served as a platform for dialogue on digital health systems, AI governance in healthcare, and investment opportunities in Arab health markets.
During a high-level ministerial session, Dr. Al Sabti outlined Oman's transformation in the health sector, emphasizing the country's commitment to building a proactive, resilient, and sustainable health system. He detailed Oman's focus on public health, universal health coverage, and fostering innovation.
Oman's participation in the World Health Assembly also included engagement in the Arab Council of Health Ministers' meeting, where discussions centered on enhancing Arab coordination in health forums and confronting health emergencies.
Moreover, Oman took part in the Ministerial Alliance of Champions against Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), organized by Sweden. The meeting addressed strategies to tackle the AMR crisis, emphasizing the One Health approach and international cooperation.
Oman's involvement in these discussions reflects its commitment to strengthening health security and rationalizing antibiotic use, in line with the Sustainable Development Goals and WHO guidelines.