SFDA's Dr. Hisham S. Aljadhey Represents Saudi Arabia At International Drug Regulatory Authorities Conference In India

The 19th Annual Meeting of the International Conference of Drug Regulatory Authorities (ICDRA) took place in New Delhi, India, from October 14 to 18, 2024. This event was inaugurated by Anupriya Patel, India's Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare. The conference was organised by the Indian government, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO), and the Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO).

Dr. Hisham S. Aljadhey, CEO of the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA), led Saudi Arabia's delegation at this significant gathering. The ICDRA serves as a platform for regulatory bodies to collaborate and share experiences, aiming to develop essential recommendations in drug regulation. The theme for this year's conference was "Smart Regulation: Providing Quality-Assured Medical Products for All," focusing on regulatory reforms and medical product safety.

The ICDRA has been a biennial event since its establishment in 1980 by the WHO. It brings together regulatory authorities from WHO member states to promote cooperation and expertise exchange. The conference aims to issue crucial recommendations that enhance drug regulation globally, ensuring the safety and efficacy of pharmaceuticals.

Dr. Aljadhey highlighted the importance of international collaboration during his remarks at the conference. He stated: "The international presence of member states is a testament to the shared goals we seek to achieve in ensuring the safety, efficacy, and quality of medical products worldwide." He expressed confidence that collective efforts would lead to innovative solutions and strengthened regulatory frameworks.

The participation of SFDA in this meeting underscores Saudi Arabia's dedication to engaging with international regulatory authorities. By exchanging strategic plans and determining work priorities in drug and vaccine regulation, Saudi Arabia aims to contribute significantly to global healthcare outcomes.

Dr. Aljadhey further emphasised: "By fostering collaboration, harmonization, and knowledge sharing, we can address the challenges of today's dynamic regulatory landscape and deliver better healthcare outcomes for people around the globe." His words reflect a commitment to improving healthcare through enhanced regulatory practices.

This year's ICDRA addressed key topics such as regulatory reforms, medical product safety, and regulating innovative technologies. These discussions are crucial for developing strategies that ensure quality-assured medical products are accessible worldwide.

The Kingdom's involvement in such international forums highlights its proactive approach towards improving drug regulation standards globally. By participating actively in these discussions, Saudi Arabia demonstrates its commitment to advancing healthcare quality through effective regulation.

With inputs from SPA