Viet Nam seeks WHO’s support to improve preventive healthcare
VGP - Viet Nam called on the World Health Organization to help Viet Nam enhance the capacity of its preventive healthcare, vaccine production and drug procurement, said Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha.
Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha (R) shakes hands with WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific Dr. Saia Ma’u Piukala in Ha Noi, May 13, 2024
Tran made the call during his reception for WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific Dr. Saia Ma’u Piukala in Ha Noi on May 13.
The Government and people of Viet Nam highly valued WHO’s role in global health governance, especially in healthcare for people, the Deputy Prime Minister said.
He especially mentioned the fast and valuable support of the international organization for Viet Nam during the fight against COVID-19.
As one of the 15 countries chosen by the WHO for mRNA vaccine technology transfer, Viet Nam expects to receive practical aid to bolster its research and production capabilities not only for emerging infectious diseases but also for those with resurging threats like measles and tuberculosis.
Tran took the occasion to call upon the WHO to send experts to aid Viet Nam in refining procurement mechanisms, ensuring a stable, sustainable supply chain.
In reply, Dr. Saia Ma’u Piukala expressed gratitude for the fruitful discussions. He also highlighted the critical role of primary healthcare as the frontline for addressing basic health needs.
He suggested Viet Nam focus on top priority areas in to bid to improve the healthcare sector, especially in preventive healthcare, to better respond to future pandemics including improvement of environmental conditions, promotion of healthy lifestyles, health security and e-cigarette management.
Saia Ma’u Piukala also promised to shake hands with Viet Nam to advance healthcare and contribute to the region's and the world's sustainable development goals./.
