CAIRO, Oct 16: Kuwait’s Minister of Health, Dr. Ahmad Al-Awadhi, reaffirmed Wednesday the country’s commitment to supporting regional and international initiatives aimed at development and peace, underscoring the vision of Kuwait’s leadership that investing in human capital is key to shaping the future of nations.

Addressing the 72nd session of the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Committee for the Eastern Mediterranean, held in Cairo with participation from health ministers and representatives of member states, Dr. Al-Awadhi emphasized Kuwait’s alignment with WHO’s efforts amid complex regional humanitarian and health crises affecting over 115 million people in need.

The minister praised WHO’s significant initiatives in the region, including improving access to medical products, investing in sustainable medical personnel, and accelerating health response measures. He also highlighted successes in combating polio, promoting mental health programs, and addressing non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

Dr. Hisham Kalandar, Assistant Undersecretary for External Health Services, told KUNA the minister’s speech was pivotal in advocating for inclusive healthcare systems and advancing digital transformation in the health sector.

During the session, Dr. Al-Awadhi presented the Kuwait Prize for the Control of Cancer, Cardiovascular Diseases, and Diabetes to Dr. Noor Al-Busaidi of Oman and Dr. Majid Mobarhan of Iran. The award, named after Kuwait, celebrates scientific achievement and innovation that advance public health in the region.

“This award embodies Kuwait’s firm belief that science is the strongest tool for development and research, the pathway to human safety and prosperity,” Dr. Al-Awadhi said. He emphasized the country’s commitment to combating chronic diseases through comprehensive national policies that focus on prevention, early diagnosis, specialized care, and research, in line with Kuwait Vision 2035.

He lauded the recipients for their contributions: Dr. Al-Busaidi for excellence in diabetes control, and Dr. Mobarhan for pioneering work in cardiovascular disease. The minister encouraged continued dedication among researchers and innovators to serve humanity and improve regional health.

Expressing gratitude, Dr. Al-Awadhi thanked the WHO Regional Director, Dr. Hanan Balkhy, for her leadership and the WHO Regional Secretariat for fostering regional cooperation. He also extended appreciation to Kuwait’s leadership — His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, and His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Al-Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah—for their unwavering support of health and development initiatives.

Launched in 2003, the Kuwait Prize honors individuals and institutions advancing public health through scientific research and innovative programs targeting cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes.

The 72nd WHO Regional Committee session brings together health ministers and senior officials from 22 countries, alongside representatives from regional and international health organizations.