Vietnam Deputy PM Seeks WHO Support to Strengthen Preventive Healthcare

Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha has proposed the World Health Organization (WHO) restructure and strengthen the country’s preventive and primary healthcare systems, local media reported.

The Vietnamese official made the proposal during a meeting with WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific Dr. Saia Ma’u Piukala in Hanoi on May 13.

As one of 15 countries chosen by WHO for mRNA vaccine production technology transfer, Vietnam also seeks practical assistance to enhance its capacity in vaccine research and production, addressing both emerging diseases and resurgent infectious diseases like measles and tuberculosis, Deputy PM Ha said, adding that Vietnam also aims to develop other medical products to meet public health needs.

He called on WHO to send experts to assist Vietnam in reforming and improving mechanisms, regulations, and procedures related to procurement, bidding, and selecting pharmaceutical suppliers to ensure a stable and adequate drug supply.

Dr. Saia Ma’u Piukala emphasized the significance of primary healthcare and shared WHO's priority goals in supporting and enhancing Vietnam's health sector capacity.

While noting that better public health contributes to more sustainable socio-economic development, he committed to collaborating with Vietnam in public health efforts, contributing to sustainable development in the region and globally.

(Tin Tuc)