The Group of Seven health ministers have kicked off a meeting in southwestern Japan. Topics include strengthening health systems to respond to future emergencies following the coronavirus pandemic.

Japan's health minister Kato Katsunobu is chairing the two-day talks in the city of Nagasaki.

Kato said in his opening remarks on Saturday that after more than three years, the COVID-19 pandemic is subsiding globally.

He noted that during the pandemic, the international community saw speedy cooperation across countries and regions, in areas including support for medical systems and the development of medicines.

He said the building of robust health systems during normal times is conducive to responses to emergencies.

Kato expressed the hope that with the aim of achieving a healthier future, the G7 ministers will discuss and present directions and actions to strengthen prevention, preparedness and responses for public health emergencies.

The agenda for Saturday's session includes efforts to increase access to vaccines globally, and the promotion of universal health coverage around the world.