JOHANNESBURG, March 26 (Xinhua) -- With data indicating a regression in the universal health coverage index, South African Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi on Wednesday urged the G20 members to spearhead in increasing public financing for health systems.

Speaking at the second G20 Health Working Group meeting in South Africa's KwaZulu-Natal Province, Motsoaledi emphasized that investment and spending on public healthcare should be a priority, as recent indicators show a decline in health outcomes and financing.

"This is not merely a budgetary issue, it is a fundamental investment in our collective future. We must prioritize public health over other competing interests, ensuring that adequate resources are allocated to meet the health needs of our populations," Motsoaledi noted.

Motsoaledi appealed to the G20 members to "align" their efforts with the Lusaka Agreement, which focuses on strengthening health systems and championing equitable access to healthcare.

The minister also urged continuing inequities in the healthcare sector to be addressed. "Non-communicable diseases are a growing burden, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. We must accelerate efforts in prevention and control, focusing on multisectoral approaches."

As part of a series of countrywide G20 events, the second G20 Health Working Group meeting will run from Wednesday to Friday. Enditem

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