Phnom Penh: The President of the Cambodian National Assembly (NA) has expressed appreciation for the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) partnership with Cambodia to host the 9th Asia-Pacific Parliamentary Forum on Global Health in 2026. This collaboration is anticipated to advance global health initiatives.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, Samdech Moha Rathsapheathika Thipadei Khuon Sudary shared her positive outlook on the upcoming forum during a meeting with a visiting WHO delegation. The delegation, accompanied by WHO Representative to Cambodia Dr. Marianna Trias, was at the National Assembly Palace on April 1 to discuss the event.

The delegation’s visit to Cambodia coincided with their participation in the Regional Parliamentary Seminar on ‘Demographic Changes and Non-Communicable Diseases: Policy Responses to Challenges for Active Citizens and Youth,’ which the Cambodian National Assembly hosted on March 31.

Samdech Khuon Sudary expressed confidence in the 8th Committee of the National Assembly, led by H.E. Lok Kheng, to collaborate effectively with WHO and other relevant partners to organize the forum successfully. The forum is expected to be a significant platform for parliamentarians to exchange insights, develop policies, enhance capacity, and promote cooperation for sustainable health action worldwide.

Dr. Marianna Trias also conveyed optimism about the event, emphasizing the importance of addressing emerging health issues such as participatory grassroots health care service provision, climate change-induced health concerns, and mental health challenges.