Saudi Arabia and Morocco Sign MoU to Strengthen Health Cooperation

Rabat, The Gulf Observer: Saudi Arabia and Morocco have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to enhance bilateral cooperation in the health sector, NHC reported. The agreement was formalized in Rabat on Friday by Saudi Health Minister Fahad Al-Jalajel and Moroccan Minister of Health and Social Protection Khalid Ait Taleb.

The MoU aims to support and develop health services in both countries by facilitating the exchange of expertise in various areas, including therapeutic and preventive medicine, digital health, and pandemic management. The accord underscores the commitment of both nations to improving health care quality, patient safety, and combating pandemics and epidemics through early detection and control measures, as well as scientific research in health and medicine.

According to a statement by Morocco’s health ministry, the agreement also emphasizes cooperation in telemedicine, allowing for the exchange of critical health information and expertise across borders. Additionally, the MoU will explore opportunities for collaboration in blood services, ensuring the availability of safe and sufficient blood supplies in both countries.

The provisions of the MoU will be implemented through various means, including the exchange of information and expertise, organizing expert visits, and hosting conferences, seminars, and training programs in the health sector. These initiatives are expected to foster a robust partnership between Saudi Arabia and Morocco in the realm of public health.

During the signing ceremony, Minister Ait Taleb briefed the Saudi delegation on Morocco’s ongoing health care reform initiatives. These reforms include efforts to expand social protection, achieve universal health coverage, and advance the pharmaceutical and vaccine industries in Morocco.

In a statement to the media following the meeting, Minister Al-Jalajel highlighted that his visit to Morocco was “part of the historical relations between the two brotherly countries within the framework of joint Arab action.” The meeting between the two health ministers was attended by Saudi Ambassador to Morocco, Sami bin Abdullah Alsaleh, and an official delegation from the Saudi Ministry of Health, including Assistant Deputy Health Minister Rakan Khalid bin Dohaish, who oversees international collaboration affairs.

As part of their visit, the Saudi delegation toured several governmental and private institutions in Morocco, including the National Institute of Health and a vaccine manufacturing plant. These visits provided opportunities to explore and discuss potential areas of cooperation between the two countries in the health sector.