Towards enhancing regional health security, the administration of President Nayib Bukele is actively collaborating with strategic allies to implement and bolster the International Health Regulations for Central America, Cuba, and the Dominican Republic.
In an era where interconnectedness and the rapid spread of diseases necessitate close and coordinated collaboration among nations, this initiative emerges as a pivotal step in improving health safety within the region.
Led by Health Minister Francisco Alabi, alongside the representative of PAHO/WHO El Salvador, Giovanni Escalante; the lead researcher of Global Health at the Executive Secretariat of the Council of Ministers of Health of Central America and the Dominican Republic (SE-COMISCA), David Rodríguez; and the Director General of Livestock at the Ministry of Agriculture, a subregional meeting was convened to facilitate the exchange of experiences related to the International Health Regulations (IHR).
“It’s an honor to host representatives from Central America, Cuba, and the Dominican Republic here in El Salvador, as these are spaces that allow us to continue growing together. The best way to take care of each other is by standing hand in hand, in fraternity, and understanding that if something affects one country, it will likely impact all,” remarked Alabi.
The primary objective of these regulations is to prevent the spread of diseases and effectively respond to public health emergencies that can transcend national borders. Through the implementation of the IHR, the aim is to ensure robust collaboration between countries to contain and mitigate disease propagation, thereby minimizing the impact on population health and the global economy.
“This is a living instrument that establishes frameworks for public health action. We seek to reinforce cooperation between countries to address challenges and enhance basic response capabilities,” noted Escalante, emphasizing the need for concerted efforts to be better prepared for emergencies.
President Bukele’s government reaffirms its dedication to the health security of Salvadoran families. It will continue to work in tandem with different nations to confront shared challenges, thus reinforcing the resilience of nations in the face of public health emergencies and contributing to the well-being of their respective populations. As the world evolves, such collaborative approaches are imperative to ensure the safety and prosperity of all.