Geneva: The Director-General of the World Health Organization, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, expressed his keen interest in the progress of Cyprus’ General Health System. He also congratulated the Republic of Cyprus for its longstanding, constructive cooperation with WHO.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Dr. Ghebreyesus met with the Minister of Health, Michael Damianos, who is participating in the 78th World Health Assembly in Geneva, taking place from May 19 to 27, 2025.
During the Assembly, Damianos held a bilateral meeting with the WHO Director-General to discuss ongoing reforms within WHO, preparations for implementing the International Pandemic Accord, and issues related to the operations of the WHO Country Office in Cyprus.
Dr. Ghebreyesus reiterated his strong interest in Cyprus’ health system and praised the country’s “longstanding, constructive cooperation with the WHO and its contribution to strengthening global health policies.”
The Minister of Health also met with his counterpart from the Maldives, Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim, with whom he signed a Memorandum of Understanding to provide Cypriot expertise in the prevention and management of thalassemia. The signing took place at the Permanent Mission of Cyprus in Geneva, in the presence of representatives from both countries.
Cyprus is acknowledged worldwide as a model for managing thalassemia, both in prevention and patient care, the press release added.
Under the MoU, technical support will be offered through online seminars by Cypriot specialists, and Maldivian doctors will have the opportunity to visit Cyprus for practical training in current medical protocols.