Where in the world
The World Hepatitis Summit 2017 was undeniably a huge success . Over 750 delegates from more than 100 countries came together in São Paulo , Brazil with one aim in mind : setting the stage for the elimination of viral hepatitis . Over three days , policy makers , patient advocates , global health experts and civil society actors discussed , debated and formulated solutions to reach this goal by 2030 . To all that attended , thank you for joining us for this ground-breaking event . We hope you found the Summit informative and inspiring . If you were unable to attend , here are some of the key messages from the event as well as links to resources so you don ’ t miss out .
Champion countries are leading the way
Showing strong commitment from governments across the globe , 11 ministerial representatives took to the stage to share their successes in implementing initiatives to reach elimination . These included ministers and representatives from Brazil , China , Egypt , Georgia , Lesotho , Malta , Mongolia , Pakistan , Sudan , Syria , Uganda plus a video from Australia . Adding to the prestige , Bollywood star and WHO SEARO Goodwill Ambassador Amitabh Bachchan delivered a video message , in which he reiterated his support and commitment to lead the fight to eliminate viral hepatitis . Six governments ( Brazil , Bangladesh , Egypt , Georgia , Mongolia and the Gambia ) also pledged their support to spearhead the NOhep Visionaries Programme in their respective regions . Governments that have shown commitment to the cause and are already making headway towards elimination are beacons of best practice for countries that still have much catching up to do .
4 hepVoice November / December 2017