Kathmandu, October 17

Philippe Douste-Blazy, the French government’s candidate for the post of Director General of World Health Organisation, has sought Nepal’s support for his candidacy.

The election for the position is scheduled to take place next year.

Professor Douste-Blazy, who is on an official visit to Nepal, today met Health Minister Gagan Kumar Thapa and sought Nepal’s support for his candidacy. He had also talked about his priorities for the WHO with Minister Thapa.

A press release issued by French Embassy here today said Douste-Blazy stressed on strengthening the primary health care system and increasing WHO’s presence at local level. He stressed the need for strong political leadership at WHO, and multi-sectoral approach to resolve public health issues.

Douste-Blazy is currently the Special Advisor to the UN Secretary General on Innovative Financing for Development and has been a cardiologist.