The World Health Organization (WHO) Country Office in the Islamic Republic of Iran held a virtual meeting on 21 May 2025 with the universities of medical sciences in Arak, Saveh and Khomein, key health authorities in Markazi Province, to introduce WHO technical support for the Healthy Cities Programme and initiatives to address the social determinants of health through primary health care.

The meeting, convened at the request of Dr Javad Nazari, Chancellor of Arak University of Medical Sciences, explored opportunities for WHO collaboration to address the Province's pressing health challenges, including a high burden of road traffic injuries and air pollution.

Opening the session, Dr Nazari outlined the leading causes of mortality and health inequities in the Province. He commended WHO’s longstanding support for strengthening the Iranian health system and referenced health priorities discussed during the Health Diplomacy Workshop held on Kish Island between 14 and 15 May 2025.