The Maldives has discussed strengthening its medicine import regulatory framework and expanding international cooperation in the health sector during meetings held on the sidelines of the 79th World Health Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland.

The Ministry of Health, Family and Welfare said the discussions were held during meetings between Health Minister Geela Ali and regional and international health officials, including Dr Catharina Boehme, Officer-in-Charge of the World Health Organization’s South-East Asia Region.

The Ministry said discussions focused on assistance required to strengthen the Maldives’ regulatory system for medicine imports, as well as efforts to improve mental health services and tuberculosis treatment in the country.

The Maldives also held bilateral meetings with several countries and international organisations to discuss cooperation and support for the development of the national health sector. Meetings were held with delegations from Bangladesh, Nepal and Italy.

In addition, senior ministry officials met with Ali Hasnain, policy advisor at United for Global Mental Health, to discuss strengthening mental health-related laws and systems in the Maldives.

The 79th World Health Assembly is being held in Geneva from 18 to 23 May under the theme “Reshaping Global Health: A Shared Responsibility”, with participation from 194 countries. Minister Geela addressed the assembly during the general debate.

During the assembly, the Maldives also received an award recognising the elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV, Hepatitis B and syphilis.