Geneva, Switzerland – Senator Michael Joseph has voiced optimism for the future following Antigua and Barbuda’s participation in the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA78), where the country joined global partners in adopting the new Pandemic Agreement.

Speaking from Geneva, Joseph said the agreement is a vital step toward securing equitable access to life-saving resources for small island developing states during times of restricted exports and global emergencies.

“As the world navigates growing health challenges amid shifting geopolitics, I am honoured to lead our team to WHA78 to ensure that our small but significant voices are heard,” he stated.

Joseph extended special thanks to Chief Medical Officer Dr. Kamaria De Castro for her technical support throughout the negotiations. He expressed confidence that decisions emerging from WHA78 will strengthen countries’ abilities to respond to future crises.

The Pandemic Agreement aims to bolster international cooperation and health equity, particularly for vulnerable nations.