HRH Premier’s initiatives, contributions to health field praised by WHO director-general

Geneva, May 21 (BNA): His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa sent a letter to the Director-General of the World Health Organisation (WHO), Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. HRH the Prime Minister expressed sincere thanks and appreciation to the World Health Organisation for announcing here yesterday the honouring of HRH Premier as a “World Leader” in the health field. HRH Premier commended WHO’s efforts and initiatives to support humanitarian and awareness-raising work all over the world. Health Minister, Faeqa bint Said Al-Saleh, handed over HRH Premier’s letter to WHO Director-General during their meeting today on the sidelines of the 72nd World Health Assembly meeting at the UN headquarters here. During the meeting, WHO chief asserted that the honouring of HRH Premier was in appreciation for his pioneering role in enhancing the health sector in the kingdom, and in recognition of his contributions, initiatives, successes and landmark achievements in the field of health. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus pointed out that HRH the Prime Minister’s hounouring is a precedent in WHO’s history as he is the first leader in the world to receive it, noting that the prestigious honouring proves the great international appreciation enjoyed by HRH Premier for his milestone achievements in the field of sustainable development, in general, and the health sector, in particular. WHO director-general highlighted the “pivotal” role played by the World Health Organisation to improve health care facilities in many countries that suffer health problems. He emphasised the importance of stepping up cooperation between WHO and its Member States to eradicate diseases that have become a serious threat to civilians in under-developed countries that go through difficult economic situations.