UAE Participates in G20 Health Ministers Meeting to Address Global Health Challenges

G20 Health Ministers

Abu Dhabi, The Gulf Observer: UAE, represented by the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP), actively participated in the G20 Health Ministers Meeting and the G20 Joint Finance and Health Ministers meeting in Brazil from October 29 to 31. The meetings focused on global health challenges, setting strategic priorities, and building resilient health systems to contribute to the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.

The UAE delegation was led by Minister of Health and Prevention Abdul Rahman bin Mohammad bin Nasser Al Owais and included key officials such as Dr. Yousif Mohammed Al Serkal, Director-General of Emirates Health Services (EHS), and Nasser Al Badour, Assistant Under-Secretary at MoHAP. UAE Ambassador to Brazil Saleh Ahmed Alsuwaidi was also present at the event.

The delegation engaged in high-level discussions on health equity, climate change impacts on health, antimicrobial resistance, the One Health approach, and strategies for epidemic preparedness. Emphasis was placed on cross-sector collaboration, investment in sustainable health infrastructure, and integrated health-finance sector efforts to tackle pressing global health issues.

Minister Al Owais highlighted the importance of resilient health systems, stressing the UAE’s proactive approach to mitigating climate change-related health risks through national adaptation plans, early warning systems, and cross-border cooperation. He underscored the UAE’s commitment to the One Health strategy and its role in preventing zoonotic and infectious diseases.

The minister also praised the World Health Organization’s efforts to promote global health equity and commended the G20’s emphasis on digital health and sustainable health policies. He expressed the UAE’s dedication to international collaboration, aligning with its Centennial 2071 goals to enhance global health and well-being.

Concluding his remarks, Al Owais lauded Brazil’s leadership in organizing the successful summit and emphasized the critical need for unified international action to address global health challenges. The UAE pledged continued support for collective efforts to build a healthier, more sustainable future.