Grand Duke, Health Minister Praise Efforts of Directorate-General for Health, Health Security Committee

On Wednesday 11 November 2020, His Royal Highness the Grand Duke, together with Luxembourg's Minister of Health, Paulette Lenert, visited the Directorate-General for Health of the European Commission, located in Luxembourg-Cloche d'Or.

The Grand Duke and Health Minister met and spoke with the Director of Public Health, John F. Ryan, of the Crisis Centre before attending a virtual meeting of the Health Security Committee, which plays a key role in the coordination of measures to combat the COVID-19 pandemic.

Since the onset of the health crisis, the European Commission has implemented several instruments to support national efforts to contain the pandemic and coordinate measures taken not only by Member States, but also by third countries, particularly the financing of the emergency aid instrument, the common reserve of medical equipment as well as the joint procurement of medical countermeasures.

In his speech during the virtual plenary, Grand Duke Henri underlined the importance and added value of the European Union (EU) in the management of the health crisis. He recalled that: “The current coronavirus epidemic has made us aware of the link between health and the rest of society. Luxembourg is particularly vulnerable to cross-border health threats given its geographical location. It is in the country's interest that Europe is effectively protected against these threats”.

Luxembourg's Head of State thanked the efforts of the members and staff of the Directorate-General for Health and the Health Security Committee who worked day and night to protect the public, in close collaboration with the Member States. He noted: “Your collaborative work illustrates the best of what Europe stands for".

Health Minister Paulette Lenert stressed the important role of the Directorate-General for Health: “During this unprecedented health crisis and in the face of a new virus, the guidance of the services of DG SANTE located in Luxembourg contributed to facilitate the decision-making process of the Member States. Quick access to reliable information based on scientific evidence is essential for effective crisis management. [...] Concerted action between all countries will ensure that the European Union emerges from this crisis stronger”.