KUWAIT CITY, Oct 4: Kuwaiti Health Minister Dr. Ahmad Al-Awadhi, chairman of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Health Ministers’ Committee, said Saturday that GCC health cooperation is steadily advancing toward improved services and stronger regional integration.

Speaking at the 11th GCC Health Ministers’ Committee meeting, hosted by Kuwait, Al-Awadhi underscored the deep Gulf collaboration and shared commitment to prioritizing the health and well-being of GCC citizens.

He highlighted key agenda items, including the Gulf Strategy for Combating Drugs (2025-2028), describing it as a unified, cross-border response aimed at protecting youth and securing the region’s future. The meeting also covered the Gulf Public Health Plan (2026-2030), which offers an integrated roadmap focusing on disease prevention, enhanced regional integration, and establishing health as a pillar of sustainable development.

Al-Awadhi emphasized the vital role of the International Health Regulations in boosting GCC preparedness for epidemics and health emergencies. He also praised the Healthy Cities Initiative as a forward-looking model that integrates health into sustainable urban development.

The minister pointed to digital transformation and innovation as crucial drivers for advancing health systems in the Gulf. He noted that the GCC Innovation and Excellence Award serves to recognize creativity and support excellence within the health sector.

“This meeting provides a platform to unify our visions and shape a shared Gulf health future,” Al-Awadhi said, expressing optimism that the discussions will yield constructive decisions to further progress and enhance the GCC’s position regionally and globally.

He extended gratitude to the GCC General Secretariat, technical committees, and all involved in organizing the meeting. Al-Awadhi also praised Qatar for its distinguished leadership as chair of the Ministerial and Technical Committees in 2024, acknowledging its vital role in strengthening Gulf cooperation.

The Kuwaiti minister reiterated that the GCC’s health cooperation reflects a collective will that puts Gulf citizens’ health at the forefront, describing it as a model of coordination and joint projects that regional and international bodies can emulate.