WHO to help Cyprus meet obligations under MoU with Troika

The Minister of Health Philippos Patsalis has discussed in Geneva the need for more involvement of the World Health Organization in implementing Cyprus`s obligations relating to health matters, under the Memorandum of Understating Nicosia has signed with its international lenders (Troika).

In a meeting with Director of the World Health Organization`s Regional Office for Europe Zsuzsana Jakab, the Minister discussed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on improved involvement of WHO in the implementation of Cyprus’ obligations as well as in the broader reforms of the health sector.

Cyprus received a 10-billion-euro bailout from lenders in March 2013 and is following a three-year economic adjustment programme.

Patsalis, who attended the official opening of the 67th WHO General Assembly, had also had a number of meetings with his counterparts.

On the sidelines of the Summit, Patsalis met with the Director of the Department of Cardiovascular Surgery at the University Hospital of Geneva Professor Afxentios Kalagos, and discussed ways to further enhance existing cooperation within the MoU for patients suffering from Congenital Heart Disease.

The Minister also attended the Commonwealth Health Ministers Meeting, where ministers exchanged views on current challenges in global health issues.

Topics discussed included issues such as antimicrobial resistance, nutrition and strengthening of health systems.