The 78th World Health Assembly (WHA) commenced on Monday in Geneva, Switzerland, under the theme ‘One World for Health.’ In his opening address, World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus highlighted the historic significance of this year’s gathering, noting that member states are expected to consider and potentially adopt a landmark pandemic agreement.
Tedros urged member states to approve the next round of assessed contribution increases to ensure the WHO’s long-term financial sustainability and independence. He emphasized the importance of collective action in strengthening global health systems.
Lei Haichao, head of China’s National Health Commission and leader of the Chinese delegation, delivered a statement during the general debate. He underscored China’s active engagement in global health cooperation, stating that over the past six decades, China has dispatched more than 30,000 medical personnel to 77 countries and regions, providing treatment to over 300 million patients. During the COVID-19 pandemic, China supplied 500 billion personal protective items and 2.3 billion doses of vaccines globally.
Lei reiterated China’s commitment to supporting the WHO and multilateralism through concrete actions. He welcomed the organization’s internal reforms and expressed China’s willingness to collaborate with other member states to build a global community of health for all.
He also reaffirmed China’s position on Taiwan, stating that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China. Lei noted that the WHA has consistently decided not to include in its agenda a proposal on Taiwan’s participation as an observer. He expressed concern that remarks by a small number of countries concerning Taiwan disrupted the agenda and urged them to stop interfering in China’s internal affairs.
A significant focus of this year’s assembly is the deliberation of the much-anticipated pandemic agreement. The WHO announced on April 16 that, following more than three years of intensive negotiations, member states have reached a consensus on a draft of the agreement.
Delegates will also review the 2024 results report and deliberate on around 75 agenda items covering a wide range of topics, including the health and care workforce, antimicrobial resistance, health emergencies, polio, and climate change.
Sustainable financing is another key issue. The assembly is expected to discuss the proposed program budget for 2026-2027, which may be reduced from $5.3 billion to $4.267 billion, alongside efforts to refocus priorities, strengthen core functions, and enhance organizational efficiency.
The World Health Assembly is the WHO’s highest decision-making body and is typically held every May in Geneva. Its main responsibilities include setting organizational policies and reviewing and approving the program budget. This year’s assembly is scheduled to conclude on May 27.
