Uzbekistan's First Lady Ziroat Mirziyoyeva appointed chair of global network supporting children with serious illnesses

Uzbekistan's First Lady Ziroat Mirziyoyeva has been appointed chair of a newly established global network supporting children affected by serious and life-threatening illnesses, including cancer. She will lead the organization for a two-year term. The establishment of the network was announced on October 21 in Samarkand by Carlos Rodriguez-Galindo, Vice President of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in the United States and Director of St. Jude Global.

The initiative brings together first ladies and spouses of heads of state to strengthen international cooperation in supporting children with serious medical conditions and facilitate the exchange of experience. The ceremony marking Mirziyoyeva's appointment took place during the 2nd International Congress on Pediatric Oncology, held as part of the World Summit on Investing in Children’s Well-being: a Path to Sustainable and Equitable Development for Future Generations.

The congress, organized under the theme "From Recovery to Well-being," brought together healthcare leaders and representatives of international organizations to discuss issues related to pediatric oncology and the well-being of children affected by serious illnesses. Participants include healthcare officials and specialists from Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Russia.

Representatives of the World Health Organization (WHO), the International Society of Pediatric Oncology and the European School of Oncology are also attending the event. The congress additionally brings together specialists from foreign university clinics, medical centers, international and national scientific institutions, and civil society organizations.

Speaking at the congress, Mirziyoyeva called on governments, scientists, humanitarian organizations and the international community to coordinate their efforts in supporting children facing serious illnesses. She emphasized the importance of cooperation across national borders and ensuring that affected children and their families receive support.

The newly established network is intended to provide a platform for cooperation among first ladies and spouses of heads of state, with a focus on children affected by life-threatening conditions, including oncological diseases.

As part of the event, students from Mehrli Maktab, also known as the School of Kindness, delivered a presentation to congress participants. The students shared their personal experiences and conveyed the hopes of children currently undergoing treatment for serious illnesses.

Mirziyoyeva's selection to chair the global network was presented as recognition of Uzbekistan's progress in developing pediatric oncology services. Her appointment was also associated with her activities supporting children with cancer and efforts to expand access to quality medical care. Under the announced arrangement, Mirziyoyeva will serve as chair of the global network for two years.