Statement delivered by the Hon. Minister of Health and Mass Media, Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa, at the side- event titled “Strengthening Investment in Health Security through the Universal Health and Preparedness Review (UHPR)” on the sidelines of the Seventy-ninth World Health Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland on 19 May 2026.
Excellencies, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen,
It is an honour to address this side event of the World Health Assembly on the important theme of “Strengthening Investment in Health Security through the Universal Health Preparedness Review.”
On behalf of the Government of Sri Lanka, I wish to reaffirm our strong commitment to global health security, resilient health systems, and multilateral cooperation. The experiences of recent years, particularly the COVID-19 pandemic, reminded us that no country is fully protected unless every country is prepared. Preparedness is not a luxury; it is an essential investment for safeguarding lives, economies, and national development.
For countries like Sri Lanka, investing in preparedness is especially important because we face multiple and overlapping risks from infectious disease outbreaks and climate-related disasters to economic disruptions that can affect health systems and vulnerable populations. While these challenges are significant, they also reinforce the importance of collective action and international solidarity.
It is in this context that Sri Lanka is preparing to undertake the Universal Health Preparedness Review, in 2026. We view this not merely as an assessment exercise, but as a strategic opportunity to strengthen our national preparedness architecture and reinforce investment in health security.
Excellencies,
Preparedness must not begin when a crisis emerges. It must be built steadily, collectively, and sustainably through highest level political commitment and long-term investment.
The UHPR offers a unique platform for peer learning, transparency, and accountability among Member States. Importantly, it promotes a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach to preparedness.
One of the greatest values of the UHPR lies in its ability to support evidence-based investment. Too often, preparedness financing declines once a crisis subsides. The UHPR helps countries define clear priorities and investment needs, enabling governments and partners to allocate resources more strategically and sustainably.
The review process will also help strengthen multisectoral collaboration. Importantly, the UHPR contributes to building trust between governments and citizens, and trust among countries. Transparent peer review demonstrates commitment, encourages accountability, and fosters international cooperation at a time when global solidarity is more important than ever.
Investment in health security should not be seen as a cost. It is an investment in stability, resilience, and sustainable development. Every investment made in preparedness today helps protect lives, safeguard economies, and strengthen confidence for the future.
As Sri Lanka prepares for the UHPR in 2026, we look forward to working closely with the World Health Organization, Member States, and partners to advance this important agenda. Let us continue to strengthen preparedness through partnership, shared learning, and sustained investment, so that future generations inherit a safer, healthier, and more resilient world.
Thank you.
His Excellency Sumith Dassanayake, presented open copies of the Letter of Credence to His Excellency Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations of the Holy See at the Apostolic Palace in Vatican City on 20 May 2026 as Ambassador - designate of Sri Lanka to the Holy See
© World Health Organization/Photographer
Sri Lanka was recognized by the World Health Organization for achieving the “Maintenance of the validation of Elimination of Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV and syphilis” as a Public Health Problem. Hon. Minister of Health and Mass Media, Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa, received the certificate on 19 May 2026 in Geneva, Switzerland.
Honourable Chair,
Director General,
Excellencies,
Distinguished Delegates,
Ayubowan!
This year holds special significance for Sri Lanka as we commemorate 100 years of our Public Health System, a century of community-centred public health services that has become a cornerstone of our nation’s health achievements and social progress.
Opening Remarks by the Hon. Minister of Health and Mass Media, Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa, at the side-event titled “A Global Pursuit of Suicide Prevention: Turning Evidence into Action” held on the sidelines of the Seventy-ninth World Health Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland, on 18 May 2026.
The side event was organized by Nepal, Sri Lanka, Kenya, South Africa, Henry Ford Health and the University of Edinburgh.
Hon. Minister of Health and Mass Media, Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa, addressed the side-event titled “Childhood Cancer in the Global NCD Agenda: A Call to Action for Lifelong Integration and Access to Care” on the sidelines of the Seventy-ninth World Health Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland, on 18 May 2026.
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This event was co-hosted by St.Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Government of Sri Lanka, Gobierno de la Republica Guatemala, NCD Alliance, UNICEF and AfricaCDC.
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