NEW DELHI, May 22: The Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, has expressed gratitude to India for its continued commitment and support to the landmark Pandemic Accord, adopted this week during the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA) in Geneva.

Following three years of rigorous negotiations sparked by the global fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic, which claimed millions of lives worldwide, the Pandemic Accord was adopted by consensus by all WHO member countries. India is among the signatories of the treaty, which aims to address healthcare inequities and enhance global preparedness for future pandemics.

“Namaste, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, for joining us virtually at a historic 78th WHA when the Pandemic Accord was adopted. We are grateful for India’s commitment and support to the WHO,” Dr. Tedros stated in a message on social media platform X.

In his virtual address to the WHA, Prime Minister Modi hailed the accord as a “shared commitment” to combating future health crises through stronger global cooperation. “The WHO Pandemic Treaty is a shared commitment to fighting future pandemics through greater global cooperation,” PM Modi said, applauding the successful conclusion of negotiations.

He reiterated India’s readiness to share its experiences and best practices with the global community, especially with countries of the Global South. The Prime Minister stressed that the foundation of a healthy planet lies in inclusion, collective vision, and unified global efforts. “The future of a healthy world depends on inclusion, an integrated vision, and collaboration,” he said.

Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava, who led India’s delegation to the WHA, also extended congratulations to WHO and all member states for reaching a pivotal milestone in advancing the Pandemic Treaty. She underscored India’s position on ensuring global health equity in responding to future pandemics.

“The Pandemic agreement must ensure equitable access to medical countermeasures, timely and transparent data and pathogen sharing; and promote technology sharing and capacity building, particularly for the Global South,” Srivastava said.

She further reaffirmed India’s dedication to global health equity and inclusive pandemic preparedness as core principles guiding its support to the treaty.