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WHO Regional Director seeks support for top post

KathmanduPati September 17, 2026

Kathmandu [Nepal], September 17 – World Health Organisation (WHO) Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, Dr Hanan Balkhi has sought Nepal’s support for her candidacy for the post of WHO Director-General.

During a courtesy call on Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal at the Foreign Ministry on Thursday, Balkhi briefed him on her candidacy, vision and priorities and expressed hope of receiving support for her bid for the top WHO position.

Balkhi also expressed condolences to those affected by the recent Bhotekoshi floods and paid tribute to those who lost their lives in the disaster. She commended the government’s leadership during the difficult period.

Khanal thanked Saudi Arabia for its solidarity with Nepal during the disaster and said health risks and disease impacts linked to climate change were increasing in developing countries including Nepal.

He stressed the need for greater international cooperation and stronger health systems to address climate-related health challenges.

Saudi Ambassador to Nepal Fahd Mohammad A Mnikhr and other officials were also present at the meeting.