News Today: Sri Lanka welcomes the 78th session of WHO Regional Committee for South-East Asia

Sri Lanka proudly hosts the 78th session of the WHO Regional Committee for South-East Asia, bringing together global health leaders and policymakers to Colombo from October 13th to 15th, 2025.

The World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, arrived in Sri Lanka yesterday to attend the high-level regional meeting. The event is chaired by the WHO Regional Director for South-East Asia, Dr. Katerina Bohme, alongside Health Ministers from eight member countries, ambassadors from two nations, and several leading WHO experts.

This three-day event aims to shape the region’s future health strategy through discussions on major public health priorities. Among the key topics are promoting healthy aging, strengthening primary healthcare services, and intensifying tobacco control efforts across South-East Asia.

Participants will also explore expanding the South-East Asia Regional Health Emergency Fund and accelerating collective action against antimicrobial resistance, which continues to pose a global threat.

During the sessions, member states will review progress made on earlier resolutions, adopt new proposals, and reaffirm their commitment to protecting public health in alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Another major highlight of the 78th WHO Regional Committee meeting will be the renewed push to revitalize regional collaboration, improve health system resilience, and ensure equitable healthcare access for all.

By hosting this prestigious global event, Sri Lanka strengthens its position as a key health diplomacy partner in the South-East Asian region—championing global cooperation, innovation, and sustainable healthcare development.