NEW YORK: Minister for Health and Population Pradeep Paudel has called for greater international cooperation to strengthen Nepal’s health system, while addressing the 58th session of the Commission on Population and Development at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.
Highlighting Nepal’s achievements over the past three decades, Minister Paudel said the country has made significant progress in reducing maternal and child mortality, increasing the use and efficiency of family planning methods, lowering fertility and adolescent birth rates, and combating child marriage.
Despite these gains, he acknowledged ongoing challenges, particularly in rural areas where health infrastructure remains underdeveloped.
“Nepal is committed to ensuring access to healthcare for every citizen, but this is not something we can achieve alone,” he said.
Minister Paudel stressed the importance of global solidarity, citing limited budgetary resources and low per capita health expenditure compared to global standards. He noted that rural communities continue to face barriers due to inadequate infrastructure and health institutions.
The minister also warned that climate change and natural disasters are further straining Nepal’s health system. “As these challenges intensify, it is critical to build resilience in our health systems to better manage emergencies,” he said.
Calling for increased development assistance, Minister Paudel said such support is essential to achieving universal health coverage. He also urged the private sector to step up investment in healthcare.
Minister Paudel is leading Nepal’s delegation at the five-day session and is expected to hold bilateral meetings and consult with the Nepali diaspora in the U.S. on ways to improve health services.
Lok Bahadur Thapa, Nepal’s Permanent Representative to the UN, confirmed the minister’s plans for engaging with the community during his visit.
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