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Arab Health Mins. urge support for WHO amid raging epidemics

Minister of Health Dr. Jamal Al-Harbi
Minister of Health Dr. Jamal Al-Harbi
GENEVA, May 22 (KUNA) -- Arab Ministers of Health shored up support on Monday for the World Health Organization (WHO), urging it to step up efforts to deal with health crises in the Arab region.
Speaking at the 70th session of the WHO General Assembly, Kuwait's Minister of Health Dr. Jamal Al-Harbi pointed out that among key issues discussed is "how effectively has WHO responded to health problems of epic proportions." Moreover, the Kuwaiti official noted that it was imperative to protect human rights, adding that some nations in the region are plagued by inefficient healthcare systems.
"Many countries in the region suffer from political instability, which in turn, induced shortcomings in the healthcare system," Al-Harbi said, citing nations with legions of refugees as a result of incessant armed conflict.
Meanwhile, he underscored the need to take necessary measures to deal with these dismal conditions, applauding WHO for its efforts to prop up the healthcare system in many Arab nations.
On WHO's ties with the Arab world, the Kuwaiti Minister of Health said that tangible progress has been made and that Arab nations are determined to ameliorate their healthcare services so its citizens can reap the benefits of a developed system.
Seen as the decision-making body of WHO, the General Assembly this year runs from May 22-31, bringing together health ministers from all across the globe to zero in on specific health agendas prepared by the Executive Board. (end) ta.nam