KSA and the WHO: Partners in health and development
The World Health Organization ( WHO) congratulates the Kingdom on Saudi National Day. Saudi Arabia makes a tremendous contribution to the WHO Eastern Mediterranean Region and beyond. It is a hugely important partner in our work, providing much essential support. This year’s Saudi National Day comes at an exceptional time in the history of the region and world. We face daunting challenges, above all the coronavirus disease (COVID
19) pandemic. It continues to place massive demands on all of us. The efforts we have made together over the years in preparing, building, developing and investing in health and development are now tested to the limit.
It has been impressive to watch Saudi Arabia responding with confidence and competence. Through a rigorous approach, the authorities have been able to address the pandemic and minimize risks to the population. This success testifies to the strength and solidity of the Saudi health system, the resilience of the Kingdom’s infrastructure, and the efficiency of years of planning by its leadership.
Alongside the considerable public health challenges, COVID-19 has undermined the economic situation across the globe, with widespread suspension of road and air traffic, and a contraction of economic activity. Yet even in these most difficult circumstances, Saudi Arabia has continued its humanitarian and relief efforts. We are profoundly grateful for the generosity of the Saudi government, the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSRelief) and the Saudi people. I would like to thank the government for its continued and extensive support for the WHO’s efforts and programs.
Saudi Arabia has been among the first to step forward and enable us to continue our activities, as we provide life-saving supplies to millions of displaced people, strengthen exhausted health systems, train and deploy medical personnel, maintain critical health programs, and fight chronic and communicable diseases, saving millions of lives.
Since its foundation, the Kingdom has demonstrated that great things are possible through spirit, commitment, solidarity and action. It has undergone a renaissance while building bridges of friendship with neighboring states and beyond. I look forward to seeing further achievements in years to come. At the WHO, we believe that solidarity, unity, cooperation and participation are vital to tackle the many challenges that confront us. Only by working together can we foster development, peace and progress and realize our vision of “Health for All, by All” in our region. Let me once again express the WHO’s appreciation for Saudi Arabia, its wise leadership and compassionate people. As we celebrate Saudi National Day with you, we are confident that the Kingdom will continue to play a key role in supporting the whole human community, leading the enhancement of the region.