Statement by India at the 71st World Health Assembly (21-26 May 2018) on Agenda Item: 11.6 Global strategy and plan of action on public health, innovation and intellectual property
Thank You Mr. Chair,
India appreciates the report by the Director-General, regarding the overall programme review of the global strategy and plan of action on public health, innovation and intellectual property.
Mr. Chair,
The delegation of India is of the opinion that the recommendations of the review panel aims to provide greater specificity and focus towards effective implementation through measurable indicators.
Mr. Chair,
India believes that the primary hurdle in the implementation of GSPOA is the serious lack of funding. An increase in assessed contributions and untied voluntary contributions will go a long way in plugging the paucity of funds.
We appreciate the recommendations of the review panel on promotion of sustainable financial mechanisms, particularly on the delinking of product prices from research and development costs. This resonates well with the report of the United Nations Secretary-General's High-Level Panel on Access to Medicines.
Mr. Chair,
India strongly believes that the recommendations of the GSPOA on full use of the TRIPS flexibilities, promotion of research and development in health and maximizing health related innovations are imperative for addressing the public health needs of the developing countries and LDCs.
Mr. Chair,
India stands committed to extending full support to WHO on the full implementation of GSPOA and ensuring that Health R&D is needs-driven rather than market-driven.
Thank You.
