WHO Regional Director Balkhi Pays Courtesy Call on Foreign Minister Khanal

Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal held a courtesy meeting with Dr. Hanan H. Balkhi, Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean Region of the World Health Organization (WHO).

During the meeting at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Thursday, Dr. Balkhi expressed deep condolences to those affected and who lost their lives in the recent floods in Nepal.

She praised the leadership shown by the Government of Nepal during this difficult time.

In the meeting, Dr. Balkhi shared her candidacy, vision, and priorities for the position of WHO Director-General, and expressed her expectation of Nepal’s support for her candidacy.

Foreign Minister Khanal conveyed gratitude for the solidarity expressed by Saudi Arabia towards Nepal during this challenging period.

He emphasized that health-related risks and the impact of diseases caused by climate change are increasing in developing countries at risk, including Nepal.

He stressed the need for international cooperation and effective health systems to address climate-induced health challenges.

On the occasion, the Ambassador of Saudi Arabia to Nepal, Fahad Mohammad A. Maniker, was also present.