The 78th session of the World Health Assembly is taking place in Geneva from 19 to 27 May 2025 under the overarching theme “One World for Health.” The Mongolian delegation, headed by H.E. Ms. Davaasuren Gerelmaa, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Mongolia to the United Nations Office and other international organizations in Geneva, is participating in the session.

As part of Mongolia’s engagement in this high-level forum, H.E. Mr. Khurelsukh Ukhnaa, President of Mongolia, delivered a video message to the Assembly, extending his sincere wishes for the success of its proceedings. In his address, the President underscored the critical importance of global solidarity and preparedness in the face of future pandemics, emphasizing that “based on the lessons of the pandemic, it is critically important for the world to work together and remain ready for emerging threats.” He further highlighted Mongolia’s proactive approach to public health, particularly through the implementation of the national movement “Healthy Mongolian,” which focuses on preventive care. The President reaffirmed Mongolia’s longstanding support for the World Health Organization and reiterated the country’s steadfast commitment to advancing international health cooperation.

As part of the Assembly’s program, H.E. Ms. Davaasuren Gerelmaa, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Mongolia, delivered a statement at the High-Level Event on the World Health Organization (WHO) Investment Round, emphasizing the initiative’s pivotal role in fostering global health solidarity and shared responsibility. She reiterated Mongolia’s conviction that health is a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of sustainable development. Ambassador Gerelmaa also emphasized Mongolia’s strong commitment to strengthening its national health system, promoting healthy lifestyles, and enhancing both regional and international cooperation. Furthermore, she reaffirmed Mongolia’s support for the WHO’s 14th General Programme of Work (GPW 14) and noted the country’s voluntary financial contribution. Highlighting that full funding of GPW 14 could save up to 40 million lives over the next four years, she called on all Member States and partners to provide financial support to WHO.

The Mongolian delegation also held a bilateral meeting with Dr. Saia Ma’u Piukala, WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific. During the meeting, Ambassador Gerelmaa highlighted the adoption of the new international pandemic accord, following three years of negotiation, as a powerful demonstration of global unity and the enduring importance of multilateral cooperation in health. She noted that this year’s Assembly marked a historically significant moment. Dr. Piukala expressed his appreciation for Mongolia’s continued support to WHO. The two sides engaged in a constructive exchange on future collaboration, particularly in areas concerning pharmaceutical quality and safety.

The World Health Organization categorizes its Member States into six regional groupings based on geographical and operational considerations. Mongolia is a member of the Western Pacific Region. During the Assembly’s session on 23 May 2025, Indonesia officially transitioned from the South-East Asia Region to the Western Pacific Region. As a result, the Western Pacific Region became the largest within WHO, representing a population of 2.2 billion.