Georgian President delivers speech at meeting within 74th UNGA session
By Tea Mariamidze
Wednesday, September 25
Georgian President Salome Zurabishvili has delivered a speech at the 74th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, which was dedicated to universal healthcare coverage.
In her speech, Zurabishvili said that the Georgian government has made healthcare a political priority and through effective mobilization of resources, 90% of Georgia's population has access to essential health services.
“The introduction of a universal health care system as the main mechanism for eliminating financial barriers has reduced our expenses by 25%. The risks of poverty have also been reduced,” she said.
The president also spoke about the unprecedented Hepatitis C Elimination Program in Georgia, which was launched in 2015 with the help of Gilead Science, US Center for Disease Control and Prevention.
“This program will set a precedent for the elimination of chronic disease with medications in the whole world,” she noted.
Zurabishvili stressed that the problems in the healthcare system remain and the Government of Georgia is making great efforts to increase free access to medicines for the chronically ill pensioners and vulnerable groups.
“Our Universal Healthcare System enabled us to restore people’s dignity and save lives,” she said, adding her heart goes to the citizens in the occupied regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia who are prevented from enjoying the full benefits of the universal healthcare system, offered by the Georgian state.
“I firmly believe that ensuring no one is left out will bring greater economic, social and environmental benefits to all member states. The Government of Georgia and I remain committed to this road as it is a legacy we want to leave for future generations. Health is a political choice, and we have made that choice," said the president.
Today, Salome Zurabishvili will address the participants of the 74th session of the UN General Assembly. Bilateral meetings are also planned in New York.
Georgian President will also attend an official reception to be held by the initiative of the US President Donald Trump and his wife.
