The World Health Organization (WHO) officially declared the end of the COVID-19 pandemic as a public health emergency of international concern on May 5, 2023. This declaration came as a result of accelerated scientific research leading to effective medical and non-medical measures to combat severe illness caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. With COVID-19 still requiring ongoing research, the focus now extends to addressing potential future pandemic threats, such as a "Pathogen X." The Global Research and Innovation Forum in October 2023 provides an opportunity to assess progress and strategize for the future. The forum, consisting of two half-day sessions, will serve as a platform for discussions aimed at enhancing research's impact on health emergency preparedness and effective responses to outbreaks and pandemics.