Dr. Khaled Abdel Ghaffar, Egypt’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Health and Population, honored Amb. Haifa Abu Ghazaleh, Assistant Secretary-General and Head of the Social Affairs Sector at the League of Arab States, in recognition of her distinguished efforts during her tenure. The ceremony took place at the Ministry’s headquarters in Egypt’s New Administrative Capital.
Recognition of Tireless Dedication
In his remarks, Dr. Abdel Ghaffar expressed his deep appreciation for Amb. Abu Ghazaleh’s tireless dedication and impactful leadership, particularly in strengthening Arab social and health security frameworks. He highlighted her vital role in developing strategies, promoting collaborative initiatives, and advocating for resilient health systems across the Arab world.
“Ambassador Abu Ghazaleh’s legacy will continue to inspire, as her efforts have helped guide the Arab region through some of its most critical health and humanitarian challenges,” he stated.
Leadership Through Crisis and Recovery
Dr. Abdel Ghaffar noted that her tenure coincided with some of the most demanding periods for Arab health systems, including the gobal health pandemics, and the humanitarian crises caused by regional conflicts.
Despite these hardships, she played a pivotal role—alongside the support of Arab League Secretary-General Mr. Ahmed Aboul Gheit—in guiding regional cooperation efforts, enhancing crisis response capabilities, and ensuring continuity in public health initiatives.
Support for Palestine and Arab Unity
The Minister particularly commended her unwavering support for countries facing unprecedented humanitarian and health emergencies, including her strong advocacy for the people of Palestine. He emphasized her contributions to alleviating their suffering and ensuring access to essential healthcare.
Strengthening Arab Health Governance
Dr. Abdel Ghaffar also praised her efforts in bolstering the work of the Council of Arab Ministers of Health, ensuring the successful organization of its sessions and contributing to the development of forward-looking health strategies, initiatives, and pharmaceutical policies. These efforts have helped build the capacity of healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors throughout the Arab region.
Abu Ghazaleh: A Legacy of Catalyzing Health and Social Development
In her response, Amb. Haifa Abu Ghazaleh expressed her heartfelt gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing the spirit of partnership and mutual respect among Arab leaders. She praised Dr. Abdel Ghaffar’s pivotal role in transforming Egypt’s healthcare system and reaffirmed her support for joint Arab action in health and social development.
