UAE Voices Concerns on Global Health and Environme
At the One Health Summit, UAE stresses the interconnectedness of health, environment, and food secur
Lyon, France – During the One Health Summit held in Lyon, France, the UAE cautioned global leaders about the dire ramifications of ongoing conflicts in the region, stressing the threats posed to health, environmental stability, and food security. Organized by French President Emmanuel Macron, the summit saw participation from heads of state, over 30 ministers, and representatives from prominent international organizations.
Ahmed bin Ali Al Sayegh, UAE Minister of Health and Prevention, who represented President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, denounced the "illegal, unjustifiable, and unprovoked attacks" occurring in the region, revealing the alarming figure of over 2,700 drones and missiles that have targeted civilians, vital infrastructure, and natural resources. He asserted the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, outlining how disruptions in one area can propagate risks in another.
Describing these hostile actions as "a war against the health of every nation, family, and ecosystem," Al Sayegh underscored the urgent requirement for comprehensive, prevention-oriented health security measures. He encouraged the inclusion of broader environmental concerns within the One Health framework, such as air quality issues that are responsible for increasing chronic illness rates around the world.
Throughout the summit, Al Sayegh held discussions with global leaders, including President Dramani Mahama of Ghana, President Duma Gideon Boko of Botswana, and Prime Minister Hun Manet of Cambodia, forging avenues for international collaboration on mutual health challenges. He also conducted bilateral talks with delegations from Indonesia, Italy, and South Korea, emphasizing cooperative efforts in health and related fields.
The UAE reaffirmed its commitment to rigorous, research-driven solutions through the One Health and Beyond Declaration and collaboration with the One Health Centre of Excellence Global Network, pushing for a cohesive strategy to defend human, animal, and environmental health amidst the ongoing regional security concerns.