Invited by WHO, the World Federation of Acupuncture-Moxibustion Societies (WFAS) sent a delegation composed of Dr Vitalii Samsonov, EC Member of WFAS, Dr Sergio Bangrazi, Deputy Director of Standardization Working Committee of WFAS, Prof. Ossy Mj Kasilo and Dr. Iracema de Almeida Benevides, Representatives of member society of WFAS to attend the session. 

The session discussed on the prevention and control of non-communicable diseases, mental health and social connection, substandard and falsified medical products, climate change and health, health emergencies, universal health coverage and etc. WFAS delegation actively engaged in discussing Draft Global Traditional Medicine Strategy (2025-2034). The vision of this strategy is a world in which there is universal access to safe, effective and people-centred Traditional, Complementary and Integrative Medicine for the health and well-being of all. The session also considered the reports of Non-State actors in official relations with WHO and decided to renew WFAS in official relations with WHO. 

In the statement, Dr Vitalii Samsonov, EC Member of WFAS proposed that rigorous research in TCIM presents a rich evidence-base for its efficacy and thus a compelling case for its use. Recent research has demonstrated the quality, safety and efficacy of acupuncture in treating a wide range of mental health disorders. He appealed that it is necessary for us to build a clear road map to guide integration of TCIM approaches into primary healthcare.

During the session, the delegation also communicated with officials from World Health Organization, Traditional Complementary Integrative Healthcare Coalition, International Federation of Anthroposophy-Medical Association and other organizations. 

Source: Office of Secretariat of WFAS, Vitalii Samsonov, Sergio Bangrazi