Health minister Fearne calls for effort from Commonwealth countries to reduce threats to public health

Health minister Chris Fearne addressed the World Health Assembly in Geneva in the name of the 53 health ministers of the Commonwealth, for whom Malta is presently the chairperson. During his speech, Fearne outlined the priorities of the Commonwealth health ministers as being extreme violence, climate change and migration.

Fearne also called for a continuous effort from Commonwealth countries to reduce threats to public health.

“Health security is an important step for world peace and stability. The health sector has an important role to play in strengthening global security, including in preparation and response to public health disasters,” he said.

“Families, of different types, have been recognised as an important foundation for a strong nation. Thus, the health ministers within the Commonwealth will be addressing the issue of domestic violence,” the minister added.

The Commonwealth health ministers recognised the importance of establishing an effective and efficient model for sustainable health systems in order for the Commonwealth countries to reach the 2030 Agenda for sustainable development.