Online Desk: The World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized Bangladesh as the first country in the world for eliminating ‘Kala-azar’.

The WHO Regional Director for South-East Asia Dr Poonam Khetrapal Singh today handed over a recognition certificate of eliminating ‘Kala-azar’ to Health Minister Zahid Maleque at the 76th regional conference held in Delhi, a press release said.

WHO Director General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare of India Mansukh Mandaviya and ministers and top officials of 11 countries of South-East Asia, among others, were present at the conference.

Maleque said, “Earlier Bangladesh got recognition as fylaria and polio-free country from WHO… now Bangladesh got recognition as Kala-azar free country from WHO.”

“We are proud of getting Kala-azar free recognition. it is another milestone achievement for Bangladesh,” he added.