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The World Health Organization's Eastern Mediterranean Regional Director, Dr. Hanan Balkhy, expressed gratitude to Türkiye for its health sector support to Syria, stating that the organization eagerly anticipates further collaboration in projects benefiting the Syrian people.
"I want to thank Türkiye for their support to Syria," Balkhy told Anadolu Agency, adding that "we look forward to more cooperation with Türkiye in projects that will bring the Syrian people the prosperity and health they deserve."
Following the fall of the Bashar Assad regime in Syria, Balkhy met with new Health Minister Musab Nezzal el-Ali to discuss the support needed for rebuilding Syria's health ecosystem.
"There is an urgent need to reorganize and make the healthcare system operational in Syria so that adequate and rapid care can be provided to patients in the capital Damascus, other major cities, and rural areas," Balkhy stated.
The WHO official noted an atmosphere of optimism and hope in Syria, expressing wishes for this positive momentum to continue.
Balkhy added that the lifting of sanctions presents significant opportunities for WHO member states willing to support the Syrian people, emphasizing that "this is the best time to do this."
"We need to provide them support regarding their urgent financial needs, existing health systems, medical education curricula, and the need to renovate health infrastructure," she explained.
The regional director emphasized that WHO teams never left Syria and therefore understand the needs on the ground, pledging continued support. She stressed that WHO is working to understand the new administration's vision and ensure alignment with it and other institutions.
"UN agencies are very eager to move forward to serve the entire Syrian people, and we will be alongside them," Balkhy said, noting WHO's collaboration with other United Nations organizations that are extremely willing to strengthen Syria in the health sector.
Balkhy underscored the importance of regional cooperation, stating, "Without this solidarity and cooperation between countries, we cannot elevate the welfare of our people in the region."
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