SFDA Chief Advances GCC Health Collaboration At Arab Health Forum In Bahrain

Dr. Hisham Aljadhey, Chief Executive of the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA), attended the opening session of the Arab Health Organizations Conference and Forum. The event, held in Manama, Bahrain, saw participation from health officials and leaders across Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and other Arab nations.

During the conference, SFDA signed a cooperative program linked to a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Bahrain’s National Health Regulatory Authority (NHRA). This MoU was initially established in 2019. The signing ceremony was witnessed by Supreme Council of Health Chairman Lieutenant General Dr. Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Khalifa.

The agreement was formalised by Dr. Hisham Aljadhey from SFDA and Dr. Ahmed Mohammed Al Ansari, NHRA's Chief Executive. This program ensures that pharmaceutical preparations, medical devices, and supplies approved by SFDA will also receive approval from NHRA.

The cooperative program aims to streamline the approval process for pharmaceutical preparations and medical devices between Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. It facilitates mutual recognition of approvals granted by both regulatory bodies, enhancing efficiency in healthcare product regulation.

The MoU signed in 2019 is designed to promote information exchange regarding laboratory test results for medicines, health products, and medical devices registered with both parties. This collaboration extends to clinical research approval and execution through legal frameworks.

Joint Initiatives

The agreement also includes conducting joint factory inspections and engaging in joint training initiatives. These efforts aim to ensure high standards in manufacturing practices and regulatory compliance across both countries.

Additionally, the MoU covers the exchange of information on drug warnings, reports, and incidents related to medical devices, supplies, and products. This exchange is crucial for maintaining safety standards and addressing potential risks promptly.

The event highlighted the importance of regional cooperation in health regulation. By working together, GCC countries can enhance their healthcare systems' effectiveness and ensure better public health outcomes.

This collaborative effort between SFDA and NHRA underscores a commitment to improving healthcare standards through shared knowledge and resources. Such partnerships are vital for advancing medical research and ensuring patient safety across the region.

With inputs from SPA