Report of Central Asia International Health Investment Forum: health is the best investment: 26–27 June 2024, Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan

Overview

The WHO Regional Office for Europe, in collaboration with Kyrgyzstan’s Ministry of Health, held the inaugural Central Asia International Health Investment Forum on 26 and 27 June 2024 in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. The event brought together over 200 participants, including officials from five central Asian countries, as well as United Nations bodies, intergovernmental organizations, development agencies, financial institutions and health professionals. Under the patronage of the President of Kyrgyzstan, the forum focused on strengthening health partnerships and tackling key regional health challenges. Discussions covered rural health, digital health solutions, noncommunicable diseases, emergency preparedness, eliminating tuberculosis, vertical transmission of infectious diseases, and climate change. Delegates agreed on several initiatives to boost health investments across Central Asia that align with the Roadmap for health and well-being in Central Asia (‎2022–2025)‎. A Health Investment Group was formed to guide these efforts by focusing on universal health coverage, financial protection, reducing noncommunicable diseases and enhancing emergency preparedness. These initiatives aim to improve health outcomes and promote sustainable development throughout the central Asia region.