Small Countries Initiative Takes Center Stage in Cyprus
In a significant gathering under the auspices of the World Health Organisation (WHO), Cyprus is preparing to host the meeting of the small countries initiative (SCI) in the European region. This forum, which was established in 2013, serves as a collaborative platform for member states with populations not exceeding 2 million. The aim is to tackle common health challenges and share successful strategies to enhance health outcomes within these nations.
The upcoming meeting in Cyprus will shine a spotlight on two critical issues: cancer, with an emphasis on population screening programs and paediatric oncology, and the nexus between health and climate change. The latter will delve into the specific impacts faced by small countries and their adaptive experiences. The agenda is set to include updates on the progress made since the ninth high-level meeting of the coalition on health and tourism. Discussions will also revolve around the development of national strategies on human resources for health, ensuring the accessibility, availability, and affordability of medicines, and the potential globalisation of the initiative.
Representatives from Andorra, Cyprus, Estonia, Iceland, Latvia, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Montenegro, San Marino, and Slovenia will be participating in this pivotal meeting. Health Minister Michalis Damianos is scheduled to inaugurate the event with an address on Thursday, April 11, at 9 am in Limassol. Joining him will be Stella Kyriakides, the European Commissioner for Health and Food Safety, and Hans Henri Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe, both of whom will offer their insights at the gathering.
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