Incheon: South Korea's health ministry and the World Health Organization (WHO) have inaugurated the annual World Bio Summit in Incheon, aiming to enhance international cooperation in the health care sector for a healthier and more secure future. The summit, which started Monday, will continue through Tuesday and is attended by more than 80 representatives from governments and global organizations.According to Yonhap News Agency, the event is themed "Future investments for a healthy and secure decade" and focuses on lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic to address future health care crises more effectively. Health Minister Cho Kyoo-hong emphasized South Korea's commitment to strengthening global cooperation with the WHO to enhance health care security while driving innovation and investment.WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, in a video message, highlighted the necessity of global solidarity in tackling overlapping health threats such as climate change, conflict, and disease outbreaks. He stressed the importance of collaboration, knowledge sharing, and targeted investment in research and development to develop innovative health solutions.Participants at the summit are expected to share insights on post-pandemic health care strategies, including establishing a stable global supply chain and training biotech experts. Second Vice Health Minister Park Min-soo is scheduled to hold bilateral meetings with WHO regional director Saia Piukala and Lao Health Minister Bounfeng Phoummalaysith. Park will also meet Philippe Duneton, the executive director of Unitaid, on Tuesday.In addition to the main event, the Asian Development Bank, Unitaid, the International Vaccine Institute, and the Research Investment for Global Health Technology Foundation will conduct seminars and gatherings to promote global cooperation, as reported by the health ministry.
- October 12, 2026
