A senior World Health Organisation (WHO) official has pledged to continue supporting Cambodia as it strengthens its healthcare systems, particularly in the ongoing development of its human resources.

Takeshi Kasai, WHO regional director for the Western Pacific, also lauded the Kingdom’s fight against Covid-19, according to Ministry of Health spokeswoman Or Vandine.

Vandine, who is also head of the national Covid-19 vaccination committee, conveyed Kasai’s message of support while paying a June 6 visit to Tuol Kork Primary School in Phnom Penh.

“[Kasai] expressed his appreciation to Prime Minister Hun Sen for his leadership during the fight against Covid-19. He singled out the vaccination campaign for particular praise,” she said.

“In particular, WHO will pay close attention to our efforts to improve primary healthcare. In the future, we will launch a long-term plan,” Vandine said.

Kasai took to social media to extend his appreciation to Cambodian health authorities, saying that when the people are healthy, development is sustainable and a country can grow.

“I thank the health minister for working hard over the past two years. I have also noticed how rapidly Cambodia is developing economically – there are a lot of high-rise buildings,” he said.

Kasai also extended his appreciation to all healthcare workers in the Kingdom, from those at the smallest posts to those at the largest hospitals.

“Your motivation, commitment & professionalism during #Covid19 will go a long way in improving health care for the future,” he tweeted.

Health minister Mam Bun Heng said last month that the ministry was expanding and enhancing the quality of health services across the country and had built many new hospitals and health centres in the provinces.