x

Coronavirus: WHO, ICAO reaffirm commitment to contain virus, protect travellers health

The World Health Organisation (WHO) and International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO)  have reaffirmed  commitment to foster greater international cooperation to contain the coronavirus and to protect the health of travellers.

The assurance was made known in a statement jointly signed by WHO Director General, Mr Tedros Ghebreyesus and ICAO Secretary General, Dr Fang Liu, in Lagos on Friday.

They said  the joint statement came amidst increased international cooperation in order to coordinate a more effective response to COVID-19, and was welcomed by aviation industry groups.

The statement noted the importance of states adhering to ICAO and WHO standards relating to the prevention of the spread of communicable diseases and to follow  International Health Regulations (2005).

It  said ICAO had been working closely with governments and industry partners such as the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and Airports Council International (ACI).

“This is to provide guidance to aviation authorities, airlines, airports, and advice to individuals, on appropriate measures that will protect the health of travellers and reduce the risk of transmission.

“IATA and the airlines are working closely with WHO, ICAO, and ACI to ensure that harmonised and updated procedures are made available in order to keep passengers safe, the world connected, and the virus contained.

“Travellers should be reassured that the industry is prepared to deal with communicable diseases as a result of experiences with previous outbreaks.

“The International Health Regulations of WHO are the established foundation for the coordinated global effort that will be required by all involved,” it said.

It also noted that ICAO had issued two electronic bulletins and a state letter to urge member states to adhere to the recommendations and guidance provided by the WHO.

The statement further revealed: “given the importance of considering detailed health and disease information alongside civil aviation policies and procedures surrounding COVID-19, both ICAO and WHO have been working closely together in recent weeks to develop expert advice and ensure coordinated global action.”

It said government aviation and health officials were also reminded to enhance cross-sector collaboration at the national level and establish National Facilitation Committees as required by ICAO Standards.

It  also quoted Ms. Angela Gittens, Director General of ACI, as expressing appreciation toward the multi-sector and multi-agency communication.

“The COVID-19 outbreak and its impact on aviation has highlighted the need for effective coordination and a proportionate response from states.

“ACI welcomes the leadership shown by ICAO and WHO in this regard and will urge states to follow WHO advice.

“The health and welfare of travellers, staff and the public and limiting the spread of communicable diseases are the priorities for the aviation industry.

“So it is in all of our interests to have a common, easily understood, approach to help to prevent the spread of illnesses,” it quoted Gittens as saying.

The statement said Gittens welcomed the practical steps suggested by WHO that could assist travellers to protect themselves. (NAN)

Hot this week

Editors Urge Government To Create Safe, Enabling Environment For Journalists

· Ask security agents to find missing Vanguard journalistAs...

EXCLUSIVE: Buhari orders probe of Isa Funtua, AMCON over keystone and Etisalat

Following the controversy generated by the leading opposition party,...

6 Signs your boyfriend thinks you are ugly -Take note of No. 2

They say there are three kinds of people; the...

2023: South-East, Middle Belt Forum Endorses Peter Obi

The South-East and Middle Belt Forum has endorsed the...

Abuja-Keffi road project: CHEC assures of June 2026 completion date

Lucy OmakpoThe Federal Government has expressed its commitment to...

Chinese Pingtan Art Performance Strengthens Cultural Ties in Abuja

In a bid to enhance cultural exchange and foster...

North-Central APC Forum to Sule: Declare stance on Tinubu

By Israel Adamu, Jos The North-Central All Progressives Congress, APC,...

Plateau Youth Leader Prince Miaphen bags SALSA award

By Israel Adamu, JosFormer President of Plateau Youth Alliance,...

Delegates arrive Lagos for Okpe Union’s 95th anniversary, NEC elections

Delegates from the seven continents of the world have...

2027 is a done deal for Gov Uba Sani, President Tinubu – Rep. Amos Magaji

By Achadu Gabriel, KadunaA Member representing Zangon kataf/Jaba federal...

Daybreak Nigeria reporter, Idibia Gabriel, receives Courage In Journalism Award

In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the development...

Rivers to Pay Over N2.8 Billion in Pension Arrears to 583 Retirees on Monday

…Ibok-Ette Ibas Launches Seamless Payment Reform to End Years...
spot_img

Related Articles

Popular Categories

spot_imgspot_img