New York:Dr. Jaleela bint Al Sayed Jawad Hasan, Bahrain's Minister of Health, participated in a high-level meeting on pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response during the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the Health Minister emphasized Bahrain's commitment to enhancing multilateral cooperation and international solidarity in preventing pandemics and addressing public health emergencies. She highlighted the importance of strengthening global health security through coordinated efforts.
Dr. Hasan pointed out that pandemics and health emergencies demonstrate that health risks transcend borders, making preparedness a shared responsibility. She stressed the need for international commitment and multilateral cooperation, emphasizing the importance of resilient health systems capable of early risk detection and effective response.
Reflecting on the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, the Health Minister detailed Bahrain's national approach, which relies on integrated roles, effective coordination, and quick decision-making. This strategy involved collaboration between public and private sectors, health workers, and society at large, which enhanced the country's response to health emergencies.
The Minister outlined Bahrain's ongoing efforts to strengthen future preparedness by assessing risks, updating emergency plans, supporting research and development, and building the health workforce's capacity. Bahrain will also continue adopting a "One Health" approach to address emerging health risks.
Internationally, Dr. Hasan reaffirmed Bahrain's commitment to contributing to global efforts aimed at enhancing health systems' capabilities to manage pandemics and public health emergencies. This commitment aligns with respecting countries' cultural, social contexts, and national regulations, ultimately aiming to protect public health globally.