Honorable Chair, Esteemed Delegates,

The European Society for Medical Oncology urges Member States to adopt the Pandemic Agreement and operationalise equity by strengthening health systems’ preparedness for future pandemics so that the millions of patients with cancer are not left behind.

Since maintaining access to essential healthcare services during pandemics is imperative, tailored actions should be proactively planned at both secondary and tertiary care levels to ensure continuity of care for patients with cancer. Proper implementation of emergency preparedness means that pandemic related urgencies do not overshadow essential care for patients or compromise decent working conditions of healthcare professionals.

ESMO stands ready to support the Member States with the development of resilient oncology services across the whole continuum of care.

Thank you.