DILI, 05 june 2023 (TATOLI) – The World Health Organization (WHO) Representative in Timor-Leste, Arvind Mathur, met with the President of the Parliament, Maria Fernanda Lay, to discuss the health programs in Timor-Leste
“Parliamentarians play a very important role, from legislation to monitoring the implementation of health programs in the country. I am very delighted that I can have a fruitful meeting with the Madam Speaker,” Mathur told reporters at the House of the Representatives, in Dili, today.
WHO has been working closely with the National Parliament on “Better Laws for Better Health.”
“Timor-Leste leads with some of the very good examples of laws for promoting health in relation to the promotion of tobacco control and physical activities. Who will work closely with MPs and the President of Parliament in promoting healthy lifestyles as well as having good laws for better health of the people,” he said.
During the meeting, House Speaker Lay also raised the importance of promoting physical activities and healthy habits in terms of food and diet, as well as health check-ups.
“WHO, together with the Ministry of Health, will work with Parliament so that we can bring the best evidence-based support to Timor-Leste to improve the health of the Timorese people,” Mathur said.
Mathur revealed WHO’s commitment to continue working with the Government and Parliament on legislation for health promotion: “First, we will work on tobacco control, especially the illicit tobacco trade. Second, we will work on legislation on harmful alcohol consumption. Lastly, we will work to ensure that people with disabilities have access to health services,” he explained.
In addition, WHO is also committed to working with the Parliament and the Government on mental health legislation.
Related News:https://en.tatoli.tl/2023/06/28/un-congratulates-timoreses-first-female-house-speaker-fernanda-lay/15/
Journalist: Filomeno Martins
Editor: Nelia Borges
