Dhaka: Cabinet Secretary Dr Sheikh Md Abdur Rashid emphasized the need for a coordinated approach to prevent and manage non-communicable diseases, highlighting its importance for progress in the health sector. He stated that a time-bound action plan involving multiple ministries is essential to tackle the challenges effectively, as the responsibility cannot be shouldered by the health ministry alone.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Dr Rashid made these remarks during a discussion on the 'Implementation of Joint Declaration on Prevention and Control of Communicable Disease' held in the Cabinet Division, where he participated as the chief guest. He shared that a 'Joint Declaration' has been signed by 35 ministries and departments, with each ministry tasked with its implementation. The health services division will coordinate efforts among all ministries to achieve the set objectives.
Dr Rashid assured that the Cabinet Division would offer full support, while the World Health Organization and other development partners would provide technical assistance. Representatives from five ministries, departments, and organizations involved in food production and management were present at the meeting.
The meeting, chaired by Secretary to Health Services Division Md Saidur Rahman, included secretaries and senior officials from relevant ministries and departments who shared their views on the plans and strategies. Representatives from the World Health Organization, World Food Programme, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, UNDP, UNICEF, along with the Director General of Health Services and heads of various departments, discussed technical cooperation on the issue.