In a concerted effort to bolster regional collaboration in the health sector, Qatar took part in the 89th Gulf Health Council meeting and the 12th GCC Health Ministers’ Committee meeting, which convened in Manama, Bahrain, on Sunday. The Qatari delegation, headed by Minister of Public Health Mansoor bin Ebrahim Al Mahmoud, joined fellow Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries in discussing critical initiatives and budgetary plans aimed at enhancing healthcare across the region.
The meetings featured a comprehensive review of the Gulf Health Council’s budget for 2027 and its action plan spanning 2026 to 2030. These discussions are pivotal in setting the groundwork for future health-related projects and ensuring that the region’s healthcare systems are well-equipped to handle emerging challenges.
Key topics of discussion included strategic decisions related to the storage of essential supplies such as food and medicines, as well as conducting health examinations for expatriate workers. These measures are crucial for maintaining the health security of the GCC countries and ensuring readiness in times of crisis.
Additionally, the health ministers deliberated on the Gulf Strategy for Combating Drugs, which outlines efforts from 2025 to 2028, and explored plans to establish a Gulf Centre for Food Risk Assessment. These initiatives highlight the region’s commitment to addressing public health threats and ensuring the safety of food supplies.
During the meetings, officials also took the opportunity to assess the progress made on decisions taken at the previous GCC Health Ministers’ Committee meeting, demonstrating a continuous commitment to achieving the shared objectives of the GCC health sector.