Mr Chairman, 49.
Science is also the foundation for all our work on infant nutrition.
Some 1.5 million children still die every year because they are inappropriately fed. Given the singular impact that feeding practices have on survival, health and development in the early years, WHO has long supported Member States in their efforts to improve infant and young child feeding practices. To scale up our efforts in this crucial area, last year I launched the development of a new global strategy for infant and young child feeding that is intended as a framework for action by all concerned. Country and regional consultations have been initiated. This week you will discuss the progress made in the development of the global strategy.