Saudi Arabia And WHO Launch Strategic Dialogue To Boost Global Health Cooperation

Health Minister Fahd Al-Jalajel and World Health Organization Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus led the first strategic dialogue between Saudi Arabia and WHO via video conference from Riyadh. The event, held on August 13-14, included senior officials from the Ministry of Health, relevant Saudi authorities, and WHO representatives.

The discussions highlighted a shared commitment to strengthening health cooperation, fostering joint initiatives, supporting global health efforts, and addressing health crises together. Key topics included historical partnerships, regional and international health concerns, healthcare investments, the economy, and scientific research.

Dr. Hanan Balkhy, WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, also attended the dialogue. The talks delved into Saudi policies aimed at enhancing healthcare efficiency, digital health accessibility, and road traffic safety. Al-Jalajel emphasized the strong strategic partnership that has been evolving since Saudi Arabia joined WHO in 1961.

The Investment Round was implemented by WHO to address critical challenges in global health. According to the WHO official website, it is "a new approach to mobilizing predictable and flexible resources for its core work over the next four years (2025–2028)." This initiative aims to secure necessary funding for ongoing and future health projects.

Dr. Tedros remarked: "As the only G20 country and WHO thematic core funder in the Eastern Mediterranean Region, the Kingdom can play a key role in advocating for health and the Investment Round in the region and beyond, and at the G20 on behalf of the region." He stressed that this dialogue is crucial for aligning priorities with WHO's global health strategy for 2025-2028 and the 14th General Program of Work.

Health Sector Transformation Program

The dialogue also focused on Saudi Arabia's Health Sector Transformation Program. This program aims to improve care quality, prevent health risks, and bolster public health efforts. Discussions centered on achieving broader global health collaboration encompassing health emergencies, antimicrobial resistance, data management, and digital health innovations.

The event underscored mutual dedication to fortifying health cooperation through joint initiatives. Senior officials discussed various aspects of healthcare investments and scientific research during their deliberations.

This strategic dialogue marks a significant step towards enhancing global health cooperation between Saudi Arabia and WHO. By addressing key issues such as healthcare efficiency and digital accessibility, both parties aim to create a more robust healthcare system that benefits not only their regions but also contributes to global health improvements.

With inputs from SPA