Qatar took an active role in the recent Gulf Health Council meeting, the 89th of its kind, as well as the 12th GCC Health Ministers’ Committee meeting, both of which convened in Manama, Bahrain, on Sunday. Leading the Qatari delegation was Minister of Public Health Mansoor bin Ebrahim Al Mahmoud. These gatherings served as a platform for GCC countries to bolster their collaborative efforts within the health sector.
During the meetings, officials engaged in discussions about the Gulf Health Council’s financial plan for 2027, alongside initiatives and the comprehensive action plan set for 2026 to 2030. A significant portion of the agenda was dedicated to exploring strategic decisions related to the management and storage of critical supplies such as food and medicines, as well as the health examinations required for expatriate workers in the region.
In addition to logistical considerations, the ministers examined the Gulf Strategy for Combating Drugs, which spans from 2025 to 2028. The discussions also included plans to establish a Gulf Centre for Food Risk Assessment, a move aimed at enhancing regional food safety protocols.
Further, the meetings provided an opportunity to assess the progress made on resolutions passed during the previous GCC Health Ministers’ Committee meeting, ensuring that the initiatives are on track to meet their set objectives. These gatherings underscore the ongoing commitment of GCC member states to address regional health challenges through cooperative strategies and shared resources.