Investing in the health of the planet today, is an investment in our own health and wellbeing, says Minister of Foreign Affairs of Maldives and the President of the 76th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Abdulla Shahid.

In his message to the world on the occasion of World Health Day 2022, FM Shahid noted that this year’s theme underscores “Our health, Our planet” as an opportunity to reflect, to respond and to repair co-existence with nature.

As such, he urged the people to develop nature-based solutions that can translate into health benefits for all.

FM Shahid added that these solutions should be ones that recognize the vulnerable and marginalized populations facing the greatest health effects of environmental and climate crises, but have the least capacity to prepare and respond.

With this being said, he urged the people to prioritize long-term human wellbeing, biodiversity and ecological stability.

FM Shahid said that it also includes scaled-up financing in recovering sustainably from Covid-19, in responding to the needs of the planet and in achieving overall sustainable development goals.

He concluded his message by urging the globe to work together, towards an inclusive, transformative and sustainable recovery for our health and our planet.