The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID) have entered into a new partnership agreement today, featuring a funding contribution of €5.25 million to advance essential WHO priorities.

"Spain has consistently proven to be a dedicated ally in the realm of global health," stated Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of WHO. "We are deeply grateful for the increased flexible funding from Spain, which strengthens WHO’s autonomy and enhances our capacity to respond effectively to global and community health needs."

In 2025, Spain’s role in global health cooperation took a significant step forward with its re-entry to the WHO Executive Board for the 2025–2028 period, marking the first time in nearly twenty years. This renewed participation is backed by Spain’s newly launched Global Health Strategy, unveiled on 27 May 2025.

This collaboration was further reinforced today through a new agreement signed with WHO, signifying deepening ties between the two entities. Central to these efforts is AECID, under the direction of Mr. Antón Leis, which has notably increased its flexible and targeted funding support for WHO's strategic agenda.

The €5.25 million provided by AECID forms part of a larger €60 million commitment made by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez in November 2024. In addition to global health initiatives, this sustained funding will benefit critical health projects in countries like Jordan, Mali, and Sudan.

Spain is also preparing to host the 4th International Conference on Financing for Development (FFD4), taking place in Seville from 30 June to 3 July 2025. Among the major highlights will be a high-level special session—jointly convened with WHO and featuring leaders in health, finance, and academia—focused on advocating for stronger health investment under the theme “Health financing for a safe and sustainable economy: towards the Seville health financing agenda for action.”