WHO’s leadership instrumental to overcome COVID-19 challenges: Minister

Addis Ababa, May 19, 2020 (FBC) –Ethiopia’s Minister of Health, Dr Lia Tadesse, said WHO’s leadership is instrumental to overcome the challenges posed by COVID-19 pandemic.

Dr Lia made the remark while addressing the 73rd annual World Health Assembly (WHA) opened yesterday and held virtually.

The Minister highly appreciated the fundamental leadership role of the WHO in coordinating global response to the pandemic and supporting the efforts of member states.

“The dedication of WHO leadership and staff demonstrated is to be highly valued rather than undermined during this crucial moment,” Dr Lia told the assembly.

According to her, the only way to defeat the COVID-19 pandemic is collaboration based on respect and solidarity.

“The COVID-19 response requires a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach at national level and increased collaboration and support with spirit of solidarity at the global level,” Dr Lia said.

The Ethiopian Minister said WHO’s leadership is key to overcome COVID-19 challenges and recover quickly from the adverse impact of the pandemic.

In her virtual address, Dr Lia also briefed the participants about Ethiopia’s COVID-19 containment efforts at national and continental levels.

“Since the first case was identified in Ethiopia on March 13, 2020, the government took decisive measures to contain the spread of the pandemic,” she said.

The Minister further said Ethiopia is actively contributing to the continental response through ensuring timely distribution of test kits and protective equipment to the African nations in partnership with WHO, Africa CDC and other partners.

Dr Lia assured the assembly of Ethiopia’s commitment to continue working closely with neighbouring countries to halt the spread of the virus.

In his address, Chinese President Xi Jinping, also strongly underlined the decisive role of the WHO and the “good work applauded by all” of its director-general, Dr. Tedros Adhanom.

He further said his country will provide $2 billion over two years to help other countries respond to the impact of the pandemic