ISLAMABAD: Pakistan formally took over the chairmanship of Global Health Security Agenda (GHSA) Steering Group for 2023at a ceremony held at the National Institute of Health (NIH) on Monday.

The Italian ambassador Andreas Ferrarese, Mr. Mirza Nasirud Din Mashhood Ahmad, Special Secretary Ministry of National Health Services and steering group member countries attended the ceremony.

According to a statement, the Italian GHSA secretariat briefed about the efforts implemented under GHSA initiative in 2022.

Members congratulated Pakistan for taking over the responsibility of GHSA chairmanship 2023.

Special secretary said that infectious diseases were major obstacles to social and economic development for every country.

He also acknowledged the GHSA Steering Group work in provision of strategic guidance, direction and overall GHSA priorities.

On this occasion, NIH Chief Executive Officer Maj-Gen Prof. Aamer Ikram said that it was an honour for Pakistan to serve as chair for GHSA steering group for 2023 and expressed the strong commitment of Pakistan to implement the Global Health Security Agenda efforts.

Pakistan has also been selected as Chair for GHSA Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) action package. Moreover, Pakistan has been actively participating in GHSA AMR Action Package since 2021 and providing inputs to achieve GHSA framework 2024 objectives. It has got the recognition and selected for the prestigious position of AMR action package chair.

Published in Dawn, February 7th, 2023