Today, the nations of the world took a significant step toward protecting global health by adopting amendments to the International Health Regulations. This move builds on lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic.
"Our first responsibility has always been to protect the lives and livelihood of the American people and the security of our country," stated Secretary Xavier Becerra. "With this agreement, we take steps to hold countries accountable and strengthen measures to stop outbreaks before they threaten Americans and our security."
Becerra emphasized that this historic agreement strengthens international health regulations and affirms a longstanding commitment to global health equity and security. He noted that it fosters unprecedented cooperation towards achieving a comprehensive global pandemic preparedness and response framework.
