UAE Raises Alarms on Global Health and Environmental Threats

Lyon, France – Speaking before global leaders at the One Health Summit held in Lyon, France, the UAE underscored the far-reaching consequences of ongoing regional conflicts, highlighting significant threats to health, environment, and food security. This summit, called by French President Emmanuel Macron, welcomed heads of state along with over 30 ministers and representatives from top international organizations.

In representation of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ahmed bin Ali Al Sayegh, UAE Minister of Health and Prevention, denounced the “illegal, unjustifiable, and unprovoked attacks” in the region, noting the impact of more than 2,700 drone and missile strikes targeting human lives, vital infrastructures, and natural ecosystems. He emphasized the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, stating that disruptions in one sphere can resonate through all others.

Al Sayegh characterized these assaults as “a war against the health of every nation, family, and ecosystem,” pressing for integrated, proactive health security strategies. He advocated for an extension of the One Health approach beyond zoonotic diseases to encompass environmental hazards like air pollution, which significantly contribute to global chronic health issues.

Throughout the summit, Al Sayegh interacted with numerous world leaders, including President Dramani Mahama of Ghana, President Duma Gideon Boko of Botswana, and Prime Minister Hun Manet of Cambodia, promoting international cooperation concerning shared health goals. He also conducted bilateral discussions with representatives from Indonesia, Italy, and South Korea to enhance partnership efforts in health and related fields.

The UAE reiterated its dedication to actionable, science-driven solutions through the One Health and Beyond Declaration and its collaboration with the One Health Centre of Excellence Global Network, advocating for a cohesive strategy to safeguard health across humans, animals, and the environment amidst regional security dilemmas.