Diplomatic Correspondent, New York: Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has emphasized the need for community-based primary healthcare services to become universally accessible.
She has called upon development partners from progressive nations to contribute to this endeavor, extending their support to help reach healthcare services to all.
During the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, on the sidelines of the event titled “Sheikh Hasina Initiative on Community Clinics: Innovative Approach to Achieving Universal Health Coverage Inclusive of Mental Health and Disability,” the Prime Minister conveyed this appeal.
Prime Minister Hasina underscored the importance of collaborative efforts involving international financial institutions and development partners in advancing our community clinic-based healthcare initiatives.
“We are keen to accelerate our work on sustainable development and public health. This year, we have taken an oath to expedite our integrated efforts towards robust progress in both technological advancement and public healthcare. We encourage your active participation,” she affirmed.
Highlighting Bangladesh’s potential as a significant contributor to global south solidarity, the Prime Minister indicated that Bangladesh is prepared to exchange expertise and knowledge with eager partners.
She emphasized that the cornerstone of all happiness is health and expressed the desire to spread joy to all corners through community clinics.
“We hope that this side event will serve as another testament to our unwavering commitment to the well-being of health, our people, and our communities,” she added.
At the event, Saima Wazed, Ambassador for the Climate Vulnerable Forum (CVF), Dr. A.K. Abdul Momen, Foreign Minister, Jahid Malik, Health Minister, Masud Bin Momen, Senior Foreign Secretary, Mohammad Salahuddin, Secretary of the Prime Minister’s Office, and M. Anwar Hossain Howlader, Secretary of the Health Services Division, were present.
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s call for global cooperation in community healthcare services marks a significant step towards achieving comprehensive healthcare coverage worldwide and reinforces Bangladesh’s commitment to promoting public health and well-being.