Representing Pakistan at the 78th World Health Assembly, Federal Minister for Health Mr. Mustafa Kamal delivered a powerful statement drawing global attention to the serious regional and humanitarian challenges impacting public health in Pakistan and beyond.
Minister Kamal strongly condemned Israel’s ongoing aggression in Gaza, particularly the deliberate targeting of hospitals and healthcare workers. He urged the international community to take concrete steps to end the atrocities being committed against innocent Palestinian civilians, including children. “The brutality and oppression must stop. The world must hold Israel accountable,” he stated.
He also met with the Palestinian Minister of Health, who briefed him on urgent medical needs on the ground. Minister Kamal assured full support and shared that a framework has been developed to extend medical assistance. “We stand with our Palestinian brothers and will provide all possible medical support to heal their wounds,” he affirmed.
Turning attention to South Asia, Minister Kamal condemned India’s recent provocative actions, highlighting the destruction of a government dispensary and India’s alarming use of water as a weapon. “India's weaponization of water is a grave threat to Pakistan’s public health and food security,” he warned.
He explained that the Indus River system is not only the main source of safe drinking water in Pakistan but also irrigates 80% of its crops and powers hospitals and sanitation infrastructure. “Using water as a weapon is a violation of human rights and international law,” he said, calling on the international community to hold India accountable for endangering the health of 240 million Pakistanis.
On the sidelines of the Assembly, Mr. Kamal held bilateral meetings with the Health Ministers of Cuba, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and the United Kingdom, where discussions centered on enhancing health cooperation and leveraging shared experiences to strengthen health systems.
He also emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to local vaccine production, noting that the country currently imports vaccines, which puts a strain on foreign reserves. “We are actively exploring partnerships and investments to begin domestic vaccine manufacturing in Pakistan,” he stated.
Reaffirming national priorities, Minister Kamal reiterated that polio eradication remains a top priority for the Government of Pakistan. “With continued global support, we are confident that we will soon achieve a polio-free Pakistan, Insha’Allah,” he concluded.
