The historic city of Samarkand has hosted the opening of a major global summit titled 'Investing in Child Well-being: A Path to Sustainable and Equitable Development of Future Generations,' initiated by Uzbekistan's First Lady, Ziroat Mirziyoyeva. The high-profile gathering has brought together spouses of state leaders, alongside senior officials from the UN, UNICEF, the World Bank, and the WHO.

During the proceedings, the establishment of a new global network dedicated to supporting children suffering from severe and life-threatening illnesses, including cancer, was officially announced. The details of the initiative were presented by Carlos Rodriguez-Galindo, Vice President of the US-based St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

According to the organizers, the newly formed network is intended to unite first ladies and spouses of state leaders to foster international cooperation and share best practices in pediatric healthcare. The platform allegedly aims to address systemic challenges in treating complex diseases among minors.

In a notable development, Uzbekistan's First Lady Ziroat Mirziyoyeva has been appointed as the chair of this global network for a two-year term. Her inauguration ceremony took place on the sidelines of the International Congress on Pediatric Oncology.

Proponents claim this appointment reflects Uzbekistan's supposed achievements in developing pediatric oncology services, as well as recognizing Mirziyoyeva's active involvement in supporting cancer-stricken children. However, skeptics note that the practical impact of such bureaucratic international networks often remains limited despite high-level rhetoric.

Source: kun.uz