The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammed Pate, has called for international collaboration to enhance childhood vaccination efforts and vaccine research worldwide. Addressing the First Asia Pacific Summit on Infectious Diseases and Immunisation in Singapore, organized by the Asia Pacific Immunisation Coalition (APIC) under the theme “Vaccination for All: Access, Confidence, and Equity (ACE),” Pate emphasized the importance of equitable access, enhanced confidence, and global health equity in the face of challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainties, and climate change.
Pate acknowledged the progress made in global health, highlighting increased life expectancies and reduced child mortality rates due to expanded access to vaccines. He emphasized vaccines’ role in mitigating the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, facilitating reopening, and aiding economic recovery.
Despite advancements, Pate highlighted persistent challenges, including millions of children lacking access to basic immunization and the rise of anti-vaccine movements. He outlined the summit’s key themes: access, confidence, and equity.
Pate stressed the need to prioritize equitable vaccine access, break down barriers, and integrate vaccine delivery within national health systems. Building confidence in vaccines, through clear communication and addressing misinformation, was underscored. Achieving equity in vaccine access, both within and between countries, was emphasized as fundamental for a healthier and more just world.
The summit, attended by experts, policymakers, industry leaders, and stakeholders worldwide, aimed to mobilize global efforts, strengthen partnerships, and maintain vaccines as a beacon of hope. The event featured panel discussions, interactive workshops, and networking opportunities, focusing on innovative strategies for building trust in vaccines and fostering global collaborations for vaccine equity. The summit concluded with a call for sustained global cooperation in the field of vaccination and immunisation.
