Al-Sudani Inaugurates 61st Arab Health Ministers’ Meeting

INA-  Baghdad


Media Office of the Prime Minister said in a statement obtained by the Iraqi News Agency INA that Prime Minister Mohammed S. Al-Sudani inaugurated today, Thursday, the 61st session of the Arab Health Ministers’ Meeting, hosted in Baghdad.
 
The statement read “In his welcoming remarks, Prime Minister Al-Sudani emphasized that Baghdad and all Iraqi cities remain a home for Arab nations, hosting various activities, conferences, and events, reflecting the historic and prominent role of Iraq among its brothers, in the region and the world.”
 
It further said that “During his speech, Prime Minister Al-Sudani highlighted the significant progress made by the government in advancing healthcare services and infrastructure as part of its program, rooted in a firm commitment to meeting citizens’ aspirations, with health as a top priority.”
 
The statement also said that “The Prime Minister also drew attention to the dire situation in Gaza, where the healthcare sector has collapsed under siege and aggression, stressing Iraq’s steadfast role in providing relief to the Palestinian people.”


Al-Sudani affirmed in his speech that “Iraq has pursued two parallel tracks: enhancing healthcare infrastructure with the completion of numerous hospitals, specialized centers, and health facilities, alongside implementing fundamental changes in the administrative system of healthcare institutions, stressing that “The adoption of health insurance and joint management of hospitals through reputable institutions has shown promising success, with citizens beginning to experience its positive impacts.”

He confirmed “The government has allocated substantial funding to complete healthcare development pathways, which will yield positive results faster than anticipated,” pointing out “Funds previously spent by Iraqis on treatment outside Iraq will now contribute to the national economy and strengthen the domestic healthcare system.”

He said that “ Significant progress has been made in localizing pharmaceutical manufacturing, leading to a noticeable increase in meeting domestic medicine needs, affirming “ Attention must be given to the devastating health conditions in Gaza and across Palestine, which demand urgent humanitarian intervention.”

Al-Sudani stressed “Iraq has always stood by the Palestinian people, supporting them with resilience against occupation and atrocities,” affirming that “It is imperative to mobilize efforts to address the critical health crisis undermining the dignity of Palestinians, particularly children suffering due to a lack of medical care amidst the siege.”
 
The prime minister pointed that “Iraq also stands in solidarity with the Syrian people during these challenging times, emphasizing respect for Syria’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the preservation of its rich cultural and social diversity,” stressing “This conference is a valuable opportunity to exchange experiences and successful practices to enhance healthcare mechanisms across all Arab countries for improved medical and treatment services.”
 
He concluded his statement saying that “Tribute is paid to the healthcare workers, doctors, nurses, and all health sector staff who have sacrificed their lives for the well-being of thousands across our nations.”