Dear colleagues,

Warm greetings from the Commonwealth Medical Association. It is an honor and privilege to meet with distinguished leaders and members of our National Medical Associations throughout the Commonwealth. Please accept my sincerest thanks for your tireless efforts and invaluable contributions to improving healthcare systems and millions of lives. I join the Commonwealth Secretariat in wishing everyone a prosperous and healthy New Year.

The theme for the Commonwealth is "One Resilient Common Future: Transforming Our Common Wealth." It highlights the identification and development of each country's strengths by leveraging the Commonwealth's unique network and resources for mutual benefit, fostering a connected and digital Commonwealth. Resilient CommonHealth calls us to join forces in our shared mission of creating a future that ensures affordable, accessible, and equitable healthcare for all. I urge you to include this topic in your national policies and programs, knowing that resilience is key to attaining long-term and significant healthcare outcomes. By stressing collaboration and innovation, we can address our communities' unique health concerns. Together, we can build a framework that empowers people and improves the overall well-being of communities across the Commonwealth.

Climate Change & Health:

Climate change has far-reaching health consequences, with disadvantaged groups across the Commonwealth bearing the brunt of the repercussions. Let us step up our efforts to advocate for climate change mitigation policies that prioritize public health, address environmental determinants of health, and create climate-resilient healthcare systems. We can effectively allocate resources to those in most need by encouraging collaboration among government agencies, healthcare providers, and community organizations. Furthermore, combining education and awareness initiatives will provide individuals with the knowledge they need to adapt to and combat the health risks caused by climate change.

Tuberculosis eradication:

The Commonwealth states account for two-thirds of the worldwide tuberculosis burden. This necessitates a concentrated and comprehensive approach to TB control, including early detection, effective treatment, community participation, and cross-border collaboration. Together, we can work toward the lofty goal of eradicating tuberculosis from our countries. The Commonwealth Medical Association, in partnership with the UN Assembly's Stop TB Partnership Program, promotes high-burden countries to work with commercial and public health practitioners on the urgent goal of eradicating tuberculosis. This mission demands not just focused resources but also a shared commitment from all stakeholders. We can improve our response to tuberculosis by supporting research innovation and sharing best practices, resulting in a healthier future for all Commonwealth inhabitants.

Youth Empowerment:

Our youthful medicos and doctors are the healthcare industry's future leaders. I encourage all organizations to actively promote youth exchange programs that facilitate cross-country learning, leadership development, and collaborative creativity. Let us invest in empowering young healthcare professionals to build a more vibrant and inclusive medical workforce in the future.

Joining this participatory democracy:

The Commonwealth Medical Association invites all member countries to actively participate and share their ideas, needs, and opportunities-building a strong relationship amongst healthcare professionals across national borders. I strongly encourage you to renew your membership and build togetherness.

Commonwealth Individual Associate Membership:

I invite all medical professionals to join as individual associate members, strengthening our collective voice and broadening the scope of the CMA. This will create a unique platform for international information exchange, cooperation, and the sharing of best practices.

Finally, I am requesting your support for the newly formed CMA team. We shall work together to maintain the Commonwealth's objectives, confront pressing health concerns, and support new solutions for the greater good.

Let us stand together, dedicated to achieving the vision of a healthier, more equal, and sustainable future for all Commonwealth countries. I look forward to your active participation, guidance, and collaboration on our mission of health for all.

With heartfelt regards and best wishes.