Second G20 Health Working Group meeting to commence in Goa from Monday

The second Health Working Group (HWG) meeting under G20 India Presidency is scheduled to be held from April 17 to 19 in Goa, according to an official release.

More than 180 delegates from 19 G20 member countries, 10 invited states and 22 International Organizations will be participating in the meeting, the release said on Sunday.

"The second HWG meeting will have thematic discussions on three priorities identified under the G20 Health Track. The first priority is Health Emergencies Prevention, Preparedness and Response with focus on One Health and AMR (antimicrobial resistance). The second is Strengthening Cooperation in Pharmaceutical Sector with a focus on access and availability to safe, effective, quality and affordable medical countermeasures (vaccines, therapeutics and diagnostics).

"The third priority includes Digital Health Innovations and Solutions to Aid Universal Health Coverage and Improve Healthcare Service Delivery," added the release.

Several cultural programmes infused with flavours of Goan culture have been planned for the event to showcase India's rich diversity and culture based on Indian philosophy of 'Atithi Devo Bhava', the release said.

"Delegates will also be able to experience Goa's culinary culture, besides enjoying its scenic beauty and generous hospitality," added the release.

The release said, "The Health Track of the G20 India Presidency will comprise four Health Working Group (HWG) Meetings and one Health Ministerial Meeting (HMM)."

India plans to host four side events along with HWG meetings to enrich, supplement and support G20 discussions. A side event on Digital Health will be held on the sidelines of the 2nd meeting of HWG at Goa, 18th - 19th April.

The meetings will also be held in different locations across the country to showcase India's rich and diverse cultures, it said.

India assumed the presidency of the G20 on 1 December, 2022, marking a significant milestone. India is currently part of the G20 Troika comprising Indonesia, India and Brazil marking the first time that the troika is consisting of three developing and emerging economies, the release said.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi had reiterated that G20 India Presidency will be inclusive, action-oriented and decisive. The theme unveiled by Hon'ble Prime Minister: 'One Earth, One Family, One Future', based on India's philosophy of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam', is a catchphrase for people across the world to collectively work towards building a healthier post- pandemic world, it said.

As chair of the G20 Presidency, India aims to continue and consolidate health priorities and key takeaways from previous presidencies while highlighting critical areas that require strengthening. India also aims to achieve convergence in discussions across various multilateral fora engaged in health cooperation and work towards integrated action, the release added.