Minister for Health Dr Ifereimi Waqainabete has called on the World Health Assembly in Geneva to consider the challenges of Small Island Developing countries.

While speaking at the 72nd session of WHO assembly, Dr Waqainabete says countries such as Fiji remained burdened with substantial limitations which could be addressed through partnership and collaboration.

Dr Waqainabete reiterated the existential threat of climate change and its effects on health, the high cost of medicines, vaccines and equipment with due consideration to economies of scale.

He also called on development partners to support efforts towards human resource for health, strategic financing and the strengthening of emergency response capabilities.