In her final speech at the World Health Organisation’s Regional Committee Meeting for the Western Pacific, Vainetutai Rose Toki-Brown, the Minister of Health for the Cook Islands, highlighted the necessity of unity and collaboration in the face of ongoing public health challenges.
Standing in the beautiful surroundings of Fiji, she reflected on the warmth and camaraderie that characterises the Pacific region.
“In today’s complex landscape, our unique solidarity in the Western Pacific is something we should truly cherish,” Dr Toki-Brown remarked.
Acknowledging the difficulties the region has faced over the past year, she pointed out the significant changes in the global health landscape. She praised the hard work exhibited by member states in tackling public health issues, especially in moving towards equitable health financing systems.
Dr Toki-Brown noted the recent endorsement of the Regional Action Framework for Health Financing, which aims to realise Universal Health Coverage and Sustainable Development in the Western Pacific.
She emphasised that current public health spending is insufficient, often forcing people to choose between their health and their financial well-being.
She also raised concerns about the urgent need for transformative primary healthcare due to the increasing rates of noncommunicable diseases and ageing populations.
Dr Toki-Brown pointed out that WHO’s role in strengthening primary healthcare systems through teamwork and collaboration is crucial for enhancing health services in countries like Cambodia, Fiji, Papua New Guinea, and Viet Nam.
As the session continues, the discussions and decisions made could significantly shape future healthcare strategies and policies in the Western Pacific, emphasising the region’s commitment to working together to overcome health challenges.
The WHO Regional Committee remains engaged this week, demonstrating a unified commitment to public health and paving the way for sustainable health solutions in the future.
Meanwhile the World Health Organisation (WHO) has extended its congratulations to Dr Ratu Atonio Rabici Lalabalavu, Fiji’s Minister of Health and Medical Services, for his role as chairperson of the 76th Session of the WHO Regional Committee for the Western Pacific (RCM76).
“Congratulations to Dr Ratu Atonio Rabici Lalabalavu, #Fiji’s Minister of Health, Ministry of Health & Medical Services – Fiji and #RCM76 chairperson!” WHO said in a message celebrating Fiji’s leadership in advancing regional health priorities.
