Coordination Meeting Held to Strengthen Pandemic Prevention and Response

A coordination meeting was held by the Ministry of Public Health with representatives of the World Bank, the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, the Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock, and the National Environmental Protection Authority to enhance coordination in the prevention and control of epidemic and communicable diseases.

The meeting is attended by Mawlawi Abdul Wali Haqqani, Deputy Minister for Health Services, several heads of central directorates, advisers to the ministry leadership, and representatives of relevant national and international organizations. Discussions focus on the Pandemic Fund and the preparation of its proposal, the prevention and control of epidemic and communicable diseases, early detection and reporting, laboratory diagnosis, disease surveillance, rapid and effective response to outbreaks, preparedness, and strengthening coordination among implementing partners.

Participants also shared their views and recommendations on finalizing the Pandemic Fund proposal, clearly defining the roles and needs of relevant institutions, and systematically following up on the next steps. The necessary measures for preparing the proposal were outlined, with emphasis on ensuring that it is aligned with the country’s health needs, existing capacities, and priorities.

The Deputy Minister Health Services emphasized the importance of close coordination and collaborative efforts among relevant institutions to strengthen pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response. He stated that the Ministry of Public Health is committed to working closely with international partners and relevant organizations to develop a comprehensive and high-quality proposal for the Pandemic Fund.