WHO Director-General's remarks at the WHA President's Reception – 19 May 2026

Honourable President of the World Health Assembly, Dr Victor Atallah Lajam,

Excellencies, Honourable ministers, dear colleagues and friends,

Buenas noches a todas y todos.

Mr President, congratulations once again on your election, and my warm thanks to you and the Dominican Republic for your hospitality in hosting us this evening.

Under your leadership, the Assembly has already begun its work with energy and purpose.

There is a saying in the Dominican Republic: "De poquito a poquito se llega lejos" - step by step, we go far.

That is what this Assembly represents.

Progress in global health does not come from one decision, one meeting, or one country alone.

It comes from the steady work we do together - building consensus, strengthening cooperation, and delivering results for the people we serve.

This week, you are addressing some of the most important priorities in global health.

These conversations matter. But equally important are the partnerships behind them.

Moments like this remind us that multilateralism is built not only in formal sessions, but through dialogue, trust, and shared purpose.

Together, we continue to carry forward our shared vision: the highest attainable standard of health for all people.

Mr President, once again my thanks to you and the Dominican Republic.

I wish you all an enjoyable evening - and a successful World Health Assembly.

Muchas gracias.