Delivered by Dr. Hlya Myint, Chairman of the Conference Organizing Committee

　

　　Honorable Guests, Distinguished Delegates, Ladies and Gentlemen, we have now come to the successful conclusion of this very important conference, the Second International Meeting on Essential Drugs and Community Health Systems. It has given me great pleasure to host this meeting in Myanmar and to exchange views in this challenging area in primary health care. It has been a hectic and certainly very productive few days, with all participants doing their utmost to contribute their knowledge and practical experience towards the production of the final recommendations.

　　With the comprehensive review, analysis and exchange of experiences that have taken place, a concrete set of recommendations for future plans of action has been produced that will enhance and strengthen the concept of revolving drug funds and community management.

　　As you all know, this Essential Drugs Project is a very important project for those countries that have faced drug shortages resulting in seriously inadequate health care. Changing concepts within public health care systems towards mixes of the private and public sectors is one of the means to improving the quality of health care services. As this unfolds, we must keep in mind the necessity of narrowing the disparity in services available to people easily able to afford service fees and those less able; a burden should not be put on the poorer groups. Equity is an issue repeatedly emphasized whenever there is strong debate on the delivery of health services.

　　I am sure that the outcome of this meeting will help all to enhance, expand and modify country-specific plans within the frameworks of respective National Health Policies and Plans.

　　I hope that all of you have enjoyed your stay in our country and I look forward to meeting you all again here in Myanmar or in other parts of the region. The Organizing Committee gladly welcomes any thoughts regarding your stay here or on the conduct of this meeting. Your suggestions will be duly noted for the purpose of improving future meetings.

　　I wish to express my sincere thanks to all who have made this meeting a huge success, especially personnel from The Nippon Foundation and UNICEF Myanmar, and to all distinguished participants from various countries and organizations. I would also like to express my appreciation to all the committee members who worked hard towards the accomplishment of this important meeting.

　　Honorable delegates, ladies and gentlemen, in conclusion I would like to wish each of you good health, wealth, happiness and success in all your endeavors and a happy reunion with your families.

　　Thank you.