WHO Regional Director and Japan's Ambassador to Egypt commit to strengthening partnership for health in the Eastern Mediterranean Region

18 July 2024, Cairo, Egypt - World Health Organization Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean Dr. Hanan Balkhy today met with Ambassador of Japan to Egypt His Excellency Mr. OKA Hiroshi to discuss ongoing and future collaborations between WHO and the Government of Japan.

During the meeting, Dr. Balkhy expressed deep appreciation for the longstanding support from the Government of Japan to WHO's efforts in the Eastern Mediterranean Region.

The ongoing $8.3 million donation from Japan to the Ministry of Health and Population in Egypt, facilitated through WHO's Egypt Country Office and the Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean, was specifically acknowledged. This project serves as the foundation for medical emergency support to hospitals in Egypt affected by the humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip. Additionally, Japan's support of $10 million through WHO for Gaza, in response to the deterioration of the humanitarian situation inside the Gaza Strip, was highlighted.

"WHO's Eastern Mediterranean Region faces the highest number of emergencies globally, affecting millions of lives. Japan's support is crucial for saving lives, alleviating suffering, and addressing urgent needs, particularly in a Region also highly impacted by climate change," Dr. Balkhy noted. "Our strong, ongoing collaboration has been beneficial, particularly in addressing emergencies, bridging humanitarian and development efforts, and strengthening health systems to expand universal health coverage and primary health care."

Japan's voluntary contributions to the Region have been the largest among all WHO regions since 2016. In the 2024-25 biennium, Japan contributed $32 million, with 98% directed towards emergency operations and health appeals. Notably, besides its ongoing support to Gaza, Japan has provided emergency grant aids to Afghanistan, Djibouti, Iran, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen for strengthening healthcare services for conflict-affected vulnerable populations, including women and children.

"Japan's people-centered approach focusing on human security, and commitment to Universal Health Coverage form a strong foundation for effective partnership with WHO. This collaboration aims to support vulnerable populations, including migrants, refugees, and those in complex and politically sensitive contexts," said Ambassador OKA Hiroshi.

Dr. Balkhy concluded the meeting by reaffirming WHO's commitment to working closely with the Government of Japan to achieve shared health goals and ensure the well-being of people in the Eastern Mediterranean Region.

"Increasing needs in vulnerable settings in the Region require urgent attention and sustained support," said Dr. Balkhy. "In line with the Regional flagship initiatives, we will continue to work with Member States and partners to expand equitable access to quality health care, strengthen the capacity of the health workforce - especially women - and address substance abuse. WHO is committed to working closely with the Government of Japan to address these needs and ensure that health systems are strengthened, and lives saved."

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