The 12th APEC High Level Meeting on Health and the Economy has concluded with a focus on public health system investment, health security and universal health coverage in response to future pandemics under the Putrajaya Vision 2040. Additional border openings are also planned under safe passage schemes, as well as cooperation on vaccine technology transfers.
Public Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul chaired a roundtable panel discussion between APEC health ministers on investment in health security for pandemic preparedness in the future. The panel constituted the final round of talks for the high level meeting held in Bangkok from August 25-26, under a theme of “Open to Partnership, Connect with the World, Balance Health and the Economy”.
Minister Anutin said the pandemic underscored the reality that the global community was not sufficiently prepared for such crises. Moreover, most countries lack enough resources and financial investments to properly respond to pandemics.
The discussion therefore highlighted the need for investment in health systems and universal coverage, including vaccine development and digital health technology. (NNT)
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