Hanan Balkhy says Saudi nomination for WHO chief builds on lifetime in global health
RIYADH — Dr. Hanan Balkhy has expressed her gratitude to Saudi Arabia following her nomination for Director-General of the World Health Organization for the 2027–2032 term, outlining a career spanning frontline clinical care, infectious disease response and senior global health leadership.In her first remarks following the nomination, Balkhy thanked Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman…
RIYADH — Dr. Hanan Balkhy has thanked Saudi Arabia for nominating her as Director-General of the World Health Organization for the 2027-2032 term in her first remarks after the announcement. Balkhy highlighted her lifetime in global health, spanning clinical care, infectious disease response, and senior leadership positions. She credited her experience as a pediatrician, infectious disease specialist, and scientist working on the MERS-CoV outbreak for her approach to global health.
Balkhy also expressed her gratitude to the health professionals and colleagues who contributed to her career, as well as WHO staff worldwide. Looking ahead, she emphasized WHO's need to earn trust, deliver impact, and demonstrate value for every member state. Saudi Health Minister Fahad Al-Jalajel announced the nomination, describing Balkhy as a leader with extensive scientific, clinical, and public health experience.
He emphasized her practical leadership in strengthening health systems and achieving better health outcomes for all member states, reflecting Saudi Arabia's commitment to a WHO that is trusted, prepared, and impactful.
Written by urgent.news from Saudi Gazette's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
