Deputy Prime Minister, Dr. Khaled Abdel Ghaffar, held a meeting on Tuesday with Ricardo Isaza, Panama’s Ambassador to Egypt, and his accompanying delegation. The discussions focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation in public health, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and the export of medical supplies.
Strengthening Bilateral Health Relations
At the outset of the meeting, Dr. Abdel Ghaffar warmly welcomed Ambassador Isaza and expressed his appreciation for the growing bilateral relations between Egypt and Panama. He emphasized the importance of deepening healthcare cooperation and exploring new avenues for investment in the health sector.
According to Dr. Hossam Abdel Ghaffar, the meeting delved into the potential for exporting Egyptian pharmaceuticals and medical supplies to Panama. In addition, the two sides discussed exchanging expertise in the establishment of pharmaceutical factories and advancing various healthcare areas, including medical training, particularly in the nursing sector.
Key Areas of Collaboration
The discussion also covered proposals for cooperation agreements in public health initiatives, particularly in the fight against Hepatitis C, vaccination programs, and enhancing the capacity of health workers in child immunization. Moreover, both parties explored ways to collaborate on combating non-communicable diseases such as heart disease and cancer, with an emphasis on leveraging modern technology in the health sector.
Dr. Abdel Ghaffar further elaborated that the conversation extended to opportunities for collaboration in vaccine and serum research, utilizing Egypt’s advanced expertise in the field. Strategies for addressing health adaptation challenges posed by climate change, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly, were also explored. The meeting also discussed diagnostic and treatment strategies for infectious diseases, including HIV/AIDS and hepatitis viruses.
Focus on Technological Integration in Healthcare
One of the key highlights of the meeting was the exploration of incorporating modern technologies into healthcare systems, such as the development of electronic health records, expanding the use of telemedicine, and integrating artificial intelligence in healthcare practices.
The discussions underscored the importance of these advancements in improving the quality of healthcare services, enhancing diagnostic accuracy, and ensuring better patient outcomes in both countries.
High-Level Participation
Present at the meeting were Dr. Mohamed Hassany, Assistant Minister for Public Health Projects and Initiatives; Dr. Alaa Khairallah, Head of the Medical Professions Development Sector; Dr. Hatem Amer, Assistant Minister for International Relations; Dr. Suzanne Zanaty, Director of the General Administration of External Health Relations; and Dr. Hend Ashour, Director of the General Administration of Pharmaceutical Affairs.
The meeting concluded with both sides expressing a strong commitment to expanding healthcare partnerships and utilizing their collective expertise to improve public health systems, enhance pharmaceutical production, and utilize advanced technologies to address pressing healthcare challenges.
