Kuwait city: Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jasem Al-Budaiwi emphasized on Saturday that the pioneering health achievements within the GCC have promoted the bloc as an integrated system capable of translating the leaders' vision into tangible outcomes. Addressing the 11th meeting of the GCC Health Ministers' Committee in Kuwait, Al-Budaiwi highlighted the significant progress made in the Gulf health system, including advancements in disease prevention, medical services, and the training of medical teams.
According to Kuwait News Agency, Al-Budaiwi stated that the GCC member states are steadily moving towards regional integration by standardizing health criteria and protocols and forging strategic partnerships with international organizations. He emphasized the ongoing cooperation with the World Health Organization (WHO) concerning the adoption of the WHO's Health Cities Program. This initiative aims to enhance health and welfare in sustainable and community-friendly Gulf cities.
Further, Al-Budaiwi noted that Gulf leaders view health as a fundamental pillar of sustainable development and an essential aspect of human investment. He pointed to the fact that over 204,000 Gulf citizens have benefited from government medical services outside their home countries in 2023, as evidence of the region's integration. Additionally, he highlighted the growth in healthcare infrastructure, with the number of hospitals increasing to more than 863, reflecting an annual growth rate of 1.5 percent, and the expansion of health centers and complexes to over 3,400, marking a 2.5 percent annual increase.