WHO Chief Thanks India for Strong Support as Pandemic Agreement Adopted at World Health Assembly

May 21, 2025: World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has expressed his gratitude to India for its continued support to the global health body, following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s virtual address at the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA) held in Geneva.

Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Dr. Tedros wrote, “Namaste, Prime Minister @narendramodi, for joining us virtually at a historic #WHA78 when the Pandemic Accord was adopted. We are grateful for India’s commitment and support to @WHO.”

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In his virtual remarks from New Delhi, PM Modi underscored India’s role in advancing global health under the theme “One World for Health.” He highlighted the landmark Ayushman Bharat program, the world’s largest health insurance initiative, covering 580 million people with free treatment. Modi also announced that the scheme has recently been extended to include all Indian citizens over the age of 70.

Outlining his vision for a healthier global future, Modi emphasized three pillars: inclusion, integrated vision, and collaboration. He said, “The future of a healthy world depends on inclusion, integrated vision, and collaboration. Inclusion is at the core of India’s health reforms.”

The Prime Minister congratulated WHO and its member nations for the successful negotiations of the INB Treaty, which aims to enhance global cooperation in future pandemic responses. “Let us ensure that no one is left behind,” he stated.

During the session, WHO member states formally adopted the world’s first Pandemic Agreement. The historic accord, a product of over three years of negotiations following the COVID-19 crisis, aims to strengthen international coordination, ensure equitable access to health tools, and safeguard national sovereignty in public health decisions.

According to WHO, the agreement marks a major step forward in creating a safer, more resilient, and more equitable global health landscape.