Daily Bangla Times: Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Thursday (May 11) called upon the developed countries to support the countries which are lagging behind to ensure universal healthcare.

"Rich countries should come forward to ensure universal healthcare with disbursing the required funds. ---many countries are still lagging behind. They need assistance," she said.

She was addressing a high-level programme titled 'Accelerating Universal Health Coverage Towards Smart Bangladesh' at a hotel in the city.

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare in supported by a number of national and international organizations such as UNICEF, WHO, CRI, Suchona Foundation and Chatham House London.

The event had two parts - first part was comprised of questions to and answers from the Chief Guest, Special Guest and the Experts - which was moderated by Saima Wazed, Advisor to Director General of WHO on Mental Health and Autism, who is also an esteemed commissioner of the Chatham House Commission on Universal Health.

Former Prime Minister of New Zealand and Co-Chair of the Chatham House Commission Helen Clark also spoke at the programme as the special guest.

"A worth-mentioning fund should be created to support health and nutrition in areas that are not yet developed or that have not made much progress towards health. Because health is the root of all happiness," Sheikh Hasina said.

Calling for an international plan for universal health care, she said universal health care is very important.

"This issue needs to be given more importance and an international plan should be made," she said.

In this connection, she said that it would be then figured out that which country needs more.

"It can be specified and health services can be ensured for all. But I believe we all need to do it together," she said.

Health Minister Zahid Maleque spoke at the function while Secretary of Health Services Division, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Dr Md Anwar Hossain Howlader gave the address of welcome.

The United Nations General Assembly is going to organize a High-Level Meeting on the UHC in September 2023.

A number of dignitaries, including ministers, MPs, national and international experts, senior officials, members of the civil society and youth leaders took part in the event.