H.E. Mr. Lok Bahadur Thapa, Permanent Representative of Nepal to the United Nations,
Excellencies,
Guru L P Bhanu Sharma,
Professor VanderWeele
Distinguished delegates,
Dear Friends,
It is an honour to participate in the first observance of International Wellness Day.
This moment comes at a critical juncture.
Around the world, communities are confronting a rising tide of noncommunicable diseases, mental health crises, environmental stress, and widening inequities.
These challenges underscore the urgency of advancing a holistic understanding of wellness that supports healthier people, stronger communities, and more resilient societies.
By proclaiming International Wellness Day, the United Nations General Assembly affirms a vision of well being that aligns closely with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Wellness is fundamentally about enabling every human being to realize their full potential and thrive with dignity.
It is central not only to SDG 3 on good health and well being, but also a prerequisite for progress across all Goals.
International Wellness Day calls for a holistic approach to well being that integrates physical, mental and social dimensions, with prevention, equity and inclusion at its core.
It reminds us that well being is a shared responsibility, grounded in solidarity, advanced through multilateral cooperation, and delivered through inclusive, cross sectoral policies.
At the ECOSOC Youth Forum that concluded yesterday, young people called for further investments in youth well-being ¡ªempowering youth not only as beneficiaries, but as partners and leaders in shaping a healthier and more inclusive future.
Excellencies,
In advancing a holistic approach to wellness, sport and physical activity can offer clear and accessible pathways.
The World Health Organization recognizes regular physical activity as a proven strategy for preventing noncommunicable diseases, improving mental health, and enhancing overall well being.
Sport for development initiatives demonstrate the benefits of partnerships in building resilience, inclusion, and social trust across communities.
International Wellness Day also calls on us to recognize the diversity of Indigenous cultures, traditional knowledge, and evidence based practices.
Respecting and safeguarding these systems is essential to inclusive development and to leaving no one behind.
Excellencies,
Today¡¯s observance is a call to action; a call to strengthen multilateral cooperation, invest in preventive care, protect traditional knowledge systems, and ensure that wellness practices are affordable, inclusive and accessible to all.
Together, through solidarity and partnerships, let us advance this shared vision of wellness for present and future generations.
Thank you.