The third meeting of the South-East Asia Regional Emergency Medical Team (SEAR EMT) Working Group took place on 5 November 2024 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, alongside the Global Emergency Medical Team (EMT) meeting. Co-chaired by representatives from Thailand and India, the event convened Working Group members from WHO South-East Asia Region Member States and observers from partner organizations. Discussions centred on the regional implementation of the EMT 2030 Strategy, the health impacts of climate change, and strengthening national rapid response capacities.
The meeting underscored the importance of regional collaboration and Member States commitment to enhancing emergency medical response. Key discussions included advancing the development of national EMTs and other surge capacities, designating and updating National Focal Points for EMTs, and finalizing the regional implementation plan of the EMT 2030 Strategy. In addition, in line with the Regional Committee resolution on strengthening EMTs in South-East Asia Region, new Co-Chairs were appointed, India and Nepal, for the period of 2024 – 2026 to lead the EMT Working Group activities in the Region.
The outcomes of the meeting are expected to strengthen emergency medical response, enhance preparedness, and contribute to building resilient health systems aligned with the goals of the EMT 2030 Strategy.