MEA Branch Secretariat, Mumbai and ACTREC Organise Exposure Visit for Consul Generals from Global South Countries to Strengthen Cooperation in Cancer Care and Research

**Executive Summary** On July 2, 2026, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Branch Secretariat, Mumbai, and the Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer (ACTREC) hosted an exposure visit for Consul Generals from Global South countries. The initiative aimed to strengthen international cooperation in cancer care, research, and capacity building. The program featured briefings on health diplomacy and technical tours of advanced treatment facilities to foster equitable healthcare access. **Key Points / Main Content** **Event Purpose and Participation** * Organized by the MEA Branch Secretariat and ACTREC (an institution under the Department of Atomic Energy) to explore collaboration in cancer research and knowledge exchange. * Participating nations included Consul Generals from Afghanistan, Egypt, Mauritius, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam, alongside officials from Bangladesh, Colombia, and Yemen. **Institutional Overviews and Innovation** * ACTREC leadership presented the institution's pioneering work in oncology treatment, research, and ongoing efforts in education and capacity building. * Discussions highlighted the importance of collaborative initiatives to address shared socio-economic and public health challenges within the Global South. **Health Diplomacy and Government Initiatives** * The MEA briefed delegates on Government of India initiatives designed to promote self-reliance, sustainable growth, and development among partner countries. * The role of "Health Diplomacy" was emphasized as a key tool for engagement and cooperation in healthcare and other priority sectors. **On-Site Facilities Tour** * Delegates participated in a curated tour of advanced cancer treatment facilities and a specialized child care cancer hospital located on the ACTREC premises. **Impact Analysis** **Global South Diplomatic Representatives** **Impact:** Gained direct exposure to India's advanced oncology infrastructure and potential frameworks for healthcare collaboration. **Action Required:** Evaluate and explore specific avenues for bilateral cooperation in cancer research, capacity building, and knowledge exchange with Indian institutions. **MEA Branch Secretariat, Mumbai** **Impact:** Successfully facilitated health diplomacy by showcasing Indian healthcare expertise to international partners. **Action Required:** Continue to brief and engage international delegates on Government of India initiatives to promote regional self-reliance and sustainable development. **ACTREC / Tata Memorial Centre** **Impact:** Positioned the center as a leading regional hub for international oncology collaboration and innovation. **Action Required:** Maintain and expand international partnerships to contribute to equitable access to quality healthcare across the Global South.

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