Traditional, complementary and integrative medicine can improve healthcare and well-being of societies; its potential is best achieved through health system integration. The strategy offers a pathway for safe and effective integration. We urge its approval.

Use of traditional and complementary medicine is high in all regions; therefore the strategy is relevant everywhere, no country should take exception.

We welcome the emphasis on research; Member States often ask for more evidence but do not invest in research on traditional medicine. This contradiction should be resolved.

Indigenous and other traditional knowledge systems hold deep wisdom about the interconnectedness of human and planetary health. KEI stands ready to collaborate on innovative models that balance protection of Indigenous knowledge with access to this vital knowledge.