India, May 20 -- Member states of the World Health Organisation (WHO) on Tuesday formally adopted by consensus the world's first Pandemic Agreement, announced the United Nations (UN) health body in a statement. The agreement aims to ensure countries work together for effective prevention, preparation, and response to future pandemics.

"The landmark decision by the 78th World Health Assembly culminates more than three years of intensive negotiations launched by governments in response to the devastating impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, and driven by the goal of making the world safer from - and more equitable in response to - future pandemics," read the statement.

"The world is safer today thanks to the leadership, collaboration, and co...