– Improving treatment services for childhood cancer, ensuring access to essential medicines and enhancing the quality of life of children affected by the disease were among the key issues discussed at the Second International Congress on Childhood Cancer held in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, on October 21 and 22.The congress was held alongside the World Summit on Investing in Children’s Wellbeing, which brought together more than 600 participants from over 100 countries.Held under the theme “Investing in Children’s Wellbeing: A Path to Sustainable and Equitable Development for Future Generations,” the summit brought together policymakers, representatives of international organizations, including the United Nations, and experts in children’s rights.Discussions focused on strengthening children’s access to essential services, improving their health and education, reducing child poverty and malnutrition, and preventing child abuse and violence.Participants also highlighted the need to safeguard the rights of children with disabilities, children deprived of family care and those living in socially vulnerable circumstances.

The summit emphasized that resources allocated for children’s health, education and protection should be viewed as an investment in human development and a sustainable future rather than merely as expenditure.One of the key outcomes was the adoption of the Samarkand Declaration on Investing in Children’s Wellbeing, which underscored the importance of translating international commitments to children’s rights and welfare into concrete action at the national level.Deputy Minister of Women and Child Affairs Dr. Namal Sudarshana represented Sri Lanka at the summit, providing an opportunity to exchange international experiences and best practices while strengthening cooperation in child protection and development.