Saudi Minister of Health Fahad Al-Jalajel met with the Chinese Minister of the National Health Commission (NHC) Lei Haichao during his official visit to the People’s Republic of China.
The two ministers discussed opportunities for collaboration in the healthcare sector, focusing on addressing health challenges and leveraging shared expertise to enhance the quality of healthcare services in Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Arabia and China have steadily expanded their health sector collaboration, particularly in areas like medical research, healthcare infrastructure, and the fight against infectious diseases. These relations are part of broader bilateral ties, which are rooted in trade, energy, and investment.
The meeting concluded with the two sides signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation across various health-related areas. This agreement builds upon the strong partnership forged during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in epidemic prevention, preparedness, and control.
The MoU supports international organizations and multilateral mechanisms in addressing global health challenges, in addition to establishing strategic healthcare partnerships to advance health transformation goals in both nations.
Chinese companies are increasing investments in Saudi Arabia’s healthcare sector, including partnerships with local health providers and the establishment of health-focused ventures in line with Saudi Vision 2030. There are joint ventures in pharmaceutical production, with Saudi companies collaborating with Chinese pharmaceutical giants to produce medicines and medical devices locally.
Further, Al-Jalajel expressed his gratitude for the invitation extended by the Chinese minister and praised the significant progress both countries have made in healthcare, technology, research, development, and innovation.
