Dec 12, Kathmandu - The 39th General Assembly of the Confederation of Medical Associations in Asia and Oceania (CIMAO) began today in Kathmandu. The General Assembly of CIMAO, which is affiliated to doctors from 35 countries, has begun in Kathmandu.

Inaugurating the General Assembly, Minister for Health and Population Dr. Sudha Gautam said that it is a matter of pride that the General Assembly is being held in Nepal. She expressed confidence that the Assembly will have a positive impact on the entire health sector. She also thanked the Nepal Medical Association, a member of the Association, for taking the initiative.

She said that the General Assembly is also an important platform to understand the health systems of other countries. Minister Gautam said that she is confident that the assembly will be fruitful.

Nepal Medical Association President Dr. Anil Bikram Karki said that every year, the member countries of the association will gather at one place and issue a declaration. He informed that each country will try to implement the issues included in the declaration in its medical sector. He was of the opinion that this could have a positive impact on the country's health sector. President Karki thinks that the issued declaration will help in preparing for health services in emergencies and can play a positive role in saving many lives.