KATHMANDU, April 8: Minister for Health and Population Pradip Paudel has called on the international community to extend support in strengthening Nepal’s healthcare system.
Speaking at the 58th session of the Commission on Population and Development (CPD) at the United Nations Headquarters in New York on Monday, Minister Paudel highlighted the progress Nepal has made over the past three decades in public health. He noted significant achievements in reducing maternal and neonatal mortality, increasing the use of contraceptives, lowering fertility and adolescent birth rates, and curbing child marriage.
“Nepal is committed to enhancing its healthcare system and ensuring health services reach every citizen,” Minister Paudel said. “However, we cannot achieve this alone.” He stressed that international cooperation and solidarity are essential to realizing these goals. He also underscored the need for greater private sector investment in healthcare to achieve universal health coverage.
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Paudel pointed out that limited budget allocation and low per capita health spending—below the global average—pose challenges in developing adequate infrastructure and services, particularly in rural areas.
He also addressed the growing impact of climate change on public health. “As climate change and natural disasters intensify, it is critical to build a more resilient healthcare system capable of responding to emergencies,” he said.
The health minister further expressed concern over the declining trend in development aid for countries like Nepal. “We urge the international community to increase development assistance to help us address these challenges,” he added.
Minister Paudel is leading Nepal’s delegation at the five-day CPD session.
Nepal’s Ambassador to the United Nations in New York, Lok Bahadur Thapa, said Minister Paudel will also engage in bilateral meetings and host a program to gather suggestions from the Nepali diaspora on improving healthcare services during his visit.