A special session of the World Health Organization (WHO) Executive Board was held on Oct 5 and 6.

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, director general of the WHO, reported on actions taken in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, especially the efforts in implementing the resolution of the 73rd World Health Assembly, and called for solidarity within the international community and more attention to health.

The co-chair of the Independent Panel for Pandemic Preparedness and Response (IPPR), the chair of the International Health Regulations (IHR) Review Committee, and the chair of the Independent Oversight and Advisory Committee (IOAC) for the WHO Health Emergencies Programme reported on the progress in the work they have undertaken.

The Chinese delegation hailed the WHO's commitment in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and its implementation of the resolution of the World Health Assembly. They also praised the work the IPPR, the IHR Review Committee, and the IOAC have carried out in an open and transparent manner.

The delegation expressed its willingness to further support the implementation of the WHO's responsibilities, and called on all the parties to unite to tackle the challenges of COVID-19, assist developing countries in improving their core capacities to implement the IHR, and work together to build a global health community for all.

Nearly 300 representatives from 34 member states and non-members of the WHO Executive Board as well as of related international and non-governmental organizations attended the session. Delegates of China’s National Health Commission, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Permanent Mission to the UN Office at Geneva participated.