Andorra Health Minister Stresses Ibero-American Cooperation at Madrid Conference

Andorra's Health Minister Helena Mas participated in the XVII Ibero-American Ministerial Conference on Health in Madrid on Thursday, alongside State Secretary for Health Cristina Pérez and Andorra's ambassador to Spain, Eva Descarrega.

During various working tables, Mas emphasised the critical role of international cooperation among Ibero-American countries in key health areas, including healthcare professionals, equitable access to medicines, and coordinated responses to sanitary emergencies. She stressed that such collaboration is especially vital for small states like Andorra, both during crises such as the Covid-19 pandemic and for ensuring medicine supplies.

Mas also highlighted Andorra's commitment to mental health through the rollout of the Comprehensive Mental Health and Addictions Plan (PISMA). The plan focuses on promoting emotional wellbeing, early detection, combating stigma, and prioritising children, youth and vulnerable groups, with involvement from multiple ministries and institutions. Efforts to plan for, attract and retain healthcare professionals were noted, in partnership with professional colleges and the SAAS.

The conference, a precursor to the XXX Ibero-American Summit, concluded with approval of a ministerial declaration. It recognises mental health as a human right and calls for strengthened regional cooperation to address shared health challenges.

Separately, Mas held a short meeting with her Spanish counterpart, Mónica García, to discuss topics of mutual interest, including updates to existing health cooperation protocols. The talks aim to refine joint responses to emerging sanitary issues and bolster technical and administrative ties between Andorra and Spain.