ISTANBUL / AA

Turkish Health Minister Kemal Memişoğlu and WHO Regional Director for Europe Hans Kluge signed the 'Istanbul Declaration' as part of the World Health Organization ministerial conference.

Under the patronage of the Turkish Ministry of Health and in cooperation with the WHO, Istanbul hosted the organization's ministerial conference on Thursday under the title 'Protecting Health in Earthquakes: Strengthening Health Security through Seismic Emergency Management'.

During the ministerial session, representatives of participating countries shared their visions and experiences on earthquakes and public health, followed by the signing ceremony of the 'Istanbul Declaration' between Memişoğlu and Kluge.

In a speech after the signing, Memişoğlu said the 'Istanbul Declaration' represents 'the strongest evidence of shared understanding and commitment to moving forward together to protect health facilities, invest in health systems, and support communities in all phases of disasters'.

Photo: Beyza Cömert/AA

He noted that no country should be left alone in facing disaster risks, adding: 'Through joint work, we can learn from each other, strengthen our systems, and build a safer future for our peoples.'

He pointed out that the value of the 'Istanbul Declaration' will be enhanced by turning this vision into stronger cooperation and practical applications on the ground.

During the conference, Memişoğlu held a video call with the Turkish national search and rescue team in Venezuela after the twin earthquake that struck the country, and team members affirmed that search and rescue operations continue around the clock.

The Turkish minister expressed condolences to the Venezuelan people for the earthquake victims, stressing that the signing of the 'Istanbul Declaration' reflects the importance of international solidarity in delivering humanitarian aid to those affected around the world.