Sri Lanka’s Health Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa Elected Chair of First BIMSTEC Health Ministers’ Conference

Sri Lanka’s Minister of Health and Mass Media, Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa, has been elected Chair of the first BIMSTEC Health Ministers’ Conference, representing Sri Lanka at the regional gathering aimed at strengthening cooperation in the health sector.

The conference commenced on the morning of November 11 at the Hilton Colombo, with Sri Lanka assuming the chairmanship of the inaugural meeting. The appointment marks an important leadership responsibility for the country in advancing regional health cooperation among BIMSTEC member states.

The conference brings together representatives from the seven BIMSTEC member countries: Sri Lanka, India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, Myanmar and Thailand.

Key areas of discussion include regional public health security, the prevention and control of communicable diseases, preparedness to respond to health emergencies, and the exchange of technical expertise and knowledge in the healthcare sector.

Dr. Jayatissa’s election to the chairmanship places Sri Lanka in an important position to lead regional policy discussions and promote collective action on shared public health priorities.

The conference is expected to provide a platform for member countries to strengthen collaboration and develop coordinated approaches to addressing regional health challenges.