Bangladesh Calls For Special U.N. Session On Maternal Health

October 20, 2007 3:02 p.m. EST

Dhaka, Bangladesh (AHN) - Bangladesh has called for a United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) special session on maternal health to outline a global plan to reduce maternal mortality rates. Bangladeshi Health and Family Welfare Advisor Matiur Rahman put forward the proposal at 'Global Women Deliver Conference' held in London from October 18 to 20. The proposal was unanimously accepted and incorporated in the ministerial declaration of the conference.

Rahman also called for creation of a global fund for maternal health, involving effective public and private partnership. The Bangladesh delegation, led by the health advisor, also proposed access to micro-credit and micro-finance to be recognized as a contributing sector to women empowerment and improvement of maternal health.

On the sidelines of the conference, Matiur met United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Executive Director Dr Thoraya Obaid, who praised Bangladesh's success in the areas of health and family welfare, particularly in improving reproductive health, and reducing maternal and infant mortality.