Qatar took part in two significant regional health meetings in Manama, Bahrain, on Sunday, marking the 89th session of the Gulf Health Council and the 12th meeting of the GCC Health Ministers’ Committee. Leading Qatar’s delegation was Mansoor bin Ebrahim Al Mahmoud, the country’s Minister of Public Health. The gatherings were pivotal in discussing ways to enhance collaboration among Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations in the healthcare sector.
A key focus of the meetings was to examine the Gulf Health Council’s budget for 2027 and to deliberate on future initiatives, including the council’s action plan spanning from 2026 to 2030. This strategic planning is critical for fostering long-term health sector improvements across the region. Moreover, the health ministers evaluated strategic decisions related to the storage of essential supplies such as food and medicines, alongside protocols for health examinations of expatriate workers.
Another important topic on the agenda was the Gulf Strategy for Combating Drugs, set for the years 2025 to 2028. The ministers are taking steps to address and combat drug-related issues, underlining their commitment to public health and safety. Additionally, discussions were held on establishing a Gulf Centre for Food Risk Assessment, a move that aims to bolster food safety measures across the GCC countries.
The meetings also served as a platform for reviewing the progress of decisions made at the previous GCC Health Ministers’ Committee meeting. This reflective practice ensures that the resolutions made in past gatherings are effectively implemented and that any challenges are addressed promptly. Through such collaborative efforts, the GCC countries aim to build a robust health infrastructure capable of meeting future challenges.
