Honourable Chair, Distinguished Delegates,

The World Medical Association welcomes the zero draft Political Declaration on NCDs and Mental Health. We commend its clarity, actionable targets, and its consistent emphasis on integrated, person-centred primary health care and universal health coverage.

However, we are concerned by the continued focus on vertical, disease-specific interventions, which risks reinforcing siloed approaches. To achieve lasting progress, stronger commitments on holistic health system strengthening and investment in the health workforce are needed. This includes commitments and one target on national workforce strategies, with fair remuneration, occupational safety, and lifelong learning. A resilient, well-supported workforce is essential not only for delivering care but for reducing inequalities and enhancing socio-economic resilience.

WMA is pleased to provide you with our comments and proposed amendments.

Thank you.