The key facts
- The Global Network was announced by St. Jude Children's Research Hospital vice president and St. Jude Global director Carlos Rodriguez-Galindo
- Ziroat Mirziyoyeva was elected chairperson of the network for a two-year term
- The congress brought together healthcare representatives from six countries, the WHO, and international oncology organizations
Creation of the Global Network
On October 21, the creation of a Global Network to support children with severe and life-threatening illnesses, including cancer, was announced in Samarkand. The announcement was made by Carlos Rodriguez-Galindo, vice president of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and director of St. Jude Global (USA). The network will unite first ladies and spouses of heads of state to develop international cooperation and exchange experience in support of sick children.
Ziroat Mirziyoyeva Heads the Network
First Lady of Uzbekistan Ziroat Mirziyoyeva, who chairs the board of trustees of the Zamin Foundation, was elected chairperson of the network for a two-year term. Her inauguration ceremony took place within the congress. According to the Zamin Foundation, this decision reflects recognition of Uzbekistan's achievements in developing pediatric oncology services, as well as Mirziyoyeva's role in supporting children with cancer, expanding their access to quality medical care, and creating conditions for every child's growth and development regardless of life circumstances.
Congress and Summit in Samarkand
The II International Congress on Childhood Cancer is being held within the World Summit 'Investments in Children's Wellbeing: A Path to Sustainable and Equitable Development for Future Generations.' The theme of the congress is 'From Recovery to Quality of Life' (in the Uzbek-language versions of the sources — 'Sog‘ayishdan farovonlik sari'). Participants include healthcare leaders of Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Russia, representatives of the WHO, the International Society of Paediatric Oncology, the European School of Oncology, foreign university clinics, leading medical centers, academic circles, and civil society. According to Kun.uz, first ladies of several countries and high-ranking representatives of the UN, UNICEF, and the World Bank are also participating in the summit.
Ziroat Mirziyoyeva's Speech
Speaking at the congress, Ziroat Mirziyoyeva called on the global community, governments, scientists, and humanitarian organizations to unite for concrete and urgent action. 'Illness and suffering know no political borders, nationality, or income level. Let us unite for a prosperous future so that no child and no family is left alone with their pain,' she said.
Children's Participation
Students of the hospital school Mehrli Maktab, which helps children undergoing long-term inpatient treatment continue their education, spoke at the event. They shared their stories and conveyed to congress participants the hopes of children battling illnesses.
