Minister of Public Health in the caretaker government, Firas Al-Abyad, reaffirmed Lebanon's commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals and the 2030 Agenda during the high-level meeting of the United Nations General Assembly on epidemic prevention, preparedness, and response. He expressed appreciation for the progress made by the Intergovernmental Negotiating Body on epidemic prevention, preparedness, and response. However, he noted that "the world cannot ignore the recurring emergence of infectious diseases, which significantly impact health systems in resource-limited developing countries." He added that "such countries face enormous challenges in combating epidemics while continually striving to strengthen their health systems."
Al-Abyad addressed the audience, stating: "These epidemics will not be confined to these countries; let us remember that viruses do not recognize borders." He emphasized that "Lebanon deserves special attention in discussions on preparedness for epidemics, given that it is the host country for the largest number of displaced individuals worldwide." He confirmed that "Lebanon’s health system, despite facing multiple crises, has served and continues to serve both citizens and a significant number of refugees."
He indicated that "any country facing similar circumstances, with social, economic, and political challenges, risks the collapse of its health system due to the burdens placed upon it." Al-Abyad stressed the need for these countries to receive full attention and support, stating: "For developed countries, preparedness and response to epidemics concern future risks. For developing countries, it is a matter of the present."
Al-Abyad turned to the President of the General Assembly, Mr. Dennis Francis, emphasizing the "invaluable" importance of global solidarity, noting that "the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated that viruses do not respect borders," considering this the principle that the initiative should follow. The Minister of Public Health attended Lebanon's speech delivered by caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati at the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly.
