A global pandemic agreement was adopted during the 78th meeting for Health Ministers in Geneva, which aims to bring the international community together in preparing for and responding to potential pandemics.

This meeting was attended by Health Minister Jo Etienne Abela, a government statement said Wednesday.

The aim of this agreement is that when a global threat emerges, all countries will participate in containment measures, diagnostics, and preventive resources, such as vaccinations.

The agreement invites all countries and regional organisations to take appropriate and timely measures and prepare for the implementation of holistic strategies, the statement said.

It said that the core principles are justice and solidarity across the world, ensuring that smaller members are not left behind.

In his speech, Abela said that Malta supports this historic effort, which promotes the concept of global health and multilateral cooperation.

He said that for small countries like Malta, it is crucial to have the guarantee of a safer, fairer, more transparent, and united international community.

Abela said that through this agreement, during a pandemic, every country will have a role in decision-making, and every individual will benefit from the highest possible standard of healthcare services.

In a discussion about the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East, Abela expressed regret at the collapse of healthcare services, food supply, and aid in these war zones. Abela again reiterated Malta's call for peace.

"Malta looks forward to continuing its collaboration with the WHO, with the aim of modernizing mental health services, furthering digitalisation, supporting recruitment and health sector workers, and promoting active ageing," Abela said.