Phnom penh: H.E. Prof. Chheang Ra, Cambodia’s Minister of Health, has emphasised the critical importance of solidarity and unified cooperation among nations to tackle pressing global health challenges and achieve priority health objectives. The Minister delivered his remarks during an intervention at the 76th session of the World Health Organisation (WHO) Regional Committee for the Western Pacific, held on the afternoon of Oct. 20 in Nadi, Fiji.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, Minister Chheang Ra outlined key health priorities for the Royal Government, including a firm commitment to combating non-communicable diseases, developing human capital, enhancing health security, and addressing health threats posed by climate change. He highlighted Cambodia’s efforts to build resilient, sustainable, and innovative health systems through the implementation of the Cambodia-WHO Country Cooperation Strategy 2024-2028, which is aligned with the National Health Strategic Plan 2025-2034.

These initiatives, he noted, are designed to advance universal health coverage (UHC) and improve the well-being of the Cambodian population. The Minister further detailed ongoing efforts to modernise the national health system, including the use of digital health innovations for managing chronic diseases and mental health, alongside strengthening the regulation of tobacco and alcohol products.

He underscored the necessity of collaborative efforts to ensure equitable access to high-quality, effective, and safe healthcare services, stressing the goal of “leaving no one behind”-a principle he applied to Cambodia, the region, and the global community. H.E. Prof. Chheang Ra concluded by reiterating the vital role of collective action among member states to foster peace, socioeconomic development, and human dignity, ultimately contributing to a resilient and sustainably prosperous region.