The Sultanate, represented by the Ministry of Health, participated today (Thursday), through video conferencing, in the sixth Meeting of Ministers of Health Committee of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and Yemen. H.E. Dr. Ahmed Mohammad Al-Saidi, minister of Health headed the Sultanate’s delegation in meeting with the presence of a number of officials.

The meeting comes within the framework of joining the efforts of member states to achieve a unified health strategy and to strengthen and implement joint Gulf action.

The GCC Health Ministers in its sixth edition discussed issues of common concern including the updates in  the implementation of the decisions of the 40th session of the Supreme Council, held in Riyadh (December 2019), as well the contents of the final declaration, especially regarding the health field such as the conclusion of global competitiveness requirements and strengthening strategic partnership.

Non-tariff restrictions for the ministries of health in the Gulf States was also discussed, with following-up the implementation of the decisions of the Supreme Council in this field.

Moreover, the meeting presented the reports of the General Committee on the efforts made by the Gulf Cooperation Council countries to confront COVID-19 pandemic by means of countries health efforts or volunteer work. The General Secretariat’s vision on strengthening joint Gulf action in the post- COVID-19 pandemic was reviewed.

The meeting also discussed the work plan of the GCC Ministers of Health Committee, following up the implementation of the International Health Regulations, the Gulf guide for epidemic preparedness and response plans, and the public health plan for emergency preparedness and response, in addition to  developing general framework for the public health emergency plan at the GCC countries airports, as well the early health warning system.

In addition, the meeting discussed the need to unify a guide for healthy Cities in the GCC States that have obtained accreditation from the World Health Organization and develop a relevant strategy within the (2020-2030) plan. Medications, medical devices and supplies exempted from value-added tax (VAT) was further addressed.

It should be noted that the Health Council of the Cooperation Council States is an authority that works to achieve a comprehensive and unified health strategy among the Gulf States, strengthen integration and work for citizens of member states to obtain the highest standards of health.