On September 25, 2026, at the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, Mali's Minister of Health and Social Development, Colonel-major Assa Badiallo TOURE, represented the country at a high-level meeting focused on pandemic prevention and response. The meeting was an opportunity for nations to discuss and address the pressing issue of global health security. Mali's participation underscored the country's commitment to tackling pandemics through international cooperation. The Minister's presence at the meeting highlighted Mali's dedication to finding solutions to the challenges posed by pandemics.
During the meeting, Colonel-major Assa Badiallo TOURE expressed Mali's support for a declaration presented by Burundi on behalf of the African Group. The declaration emphasized the importance of a unified response to pandemics, recognizing that they know no borders and affect people of all ages. The Minister also highlighted the "One Health" approach, which seeks to integrate human, animal, and environmental health to prevent zoonoses and combat antimicrobial resistance. This approach also considers the impact of climate change on health. By adopting this approach, Mali aims to strengthen its preparedness and response to pandemics.
Colonel-major Assa Badiallo TOURE stressed that pandemics and public health emergencies require a collective and coordinated response. The Minister noted that the "One Health" approach is crucial in preventing zoonoses, combating antimicrobial resistance, and addressing the effects of climate change on health. Mali is committed to strengthening its capacities in epidemiological surveillance, laboratory testing, emergency management, and human resource training. These efforts are essential in enhancing the country's ability to prevent and respond to pandemics. By investing in these areas, Mali aims to improve its health security and contribute to global efforts to address pandemics.
The Malian government, under the leadership of General Assimi GOÏTA, has reaffirmed its commitment to multilateralism and international cooperation based on equity. Mali's participation in the UN General Assembly and its support for the African Group's declaration demonstrate the country's dedication to global solidarity in addressing pandemics. The Minister's statement emphasized the need for sustained financing, transborder cooperation, and local production of health products. These elements are critical in ensuring that countries have the necessary resources to respond effectively to pandemics.
Mali's advocacy for a solidarity-based response to pandemics is aligned with the country's broader health goals. The government has been working to strengthen its health systems, improve access to healthcare, and enhance its preparedness and response to public health emergencies. By engaging in international discussions and partnerships, Mali aims to contribute to the development of effective solutions to global health challenges. The country's efforts to address pandemics are part of a broader strategy to promote health and well-being for its citizens.
The high-level meeting at the UN General Assembly provided a platform for nations to share experiences, best practices, and challenges in pandemic prevention and response. Mali's participation in the meeting and its advocacy for solidarity in addressing pandemics reflect the country's commitment to global health security. The meeting also highlighted the need for continued collaboration and cooperation among nations to address the complex and evolving challenges posed by pandemics. By working together, countries can develop effective solutions to these challenges and promote global health security.
In conclusion, Mali's participation in the 81st UN General Assembly and its advocacy for a solidarity-based response to pandemics underscore the country's commitment to global health security. The country's efforts to strengthen its health systems, promote international cooperation, and address the challenges posed by pandemics are critical in ensuring the well-being of its citizens and contributing to global health goals. Key points from Mali's advocacy include:
Key points
- Mali is advocating for a solidarity-based response to pandemics, recognizing that they know no borders and affect people of all ages.
- The country is promoting the "One Health" approach, which seeks to integrate human, animal, and environmental health to prevent zoonoses and combat antimicrobial resistance.
- Mali is committed to strengthening its capacities in epidemiological surveillance, laboratory testing, emergency management, and human resource training to enhance its preparedness and response to pandemics.
