Canberra: Minister of Health Fahad Al-Jalajel met today with Australian Minister for Health, Disability and Ageing Mark Butler to discuss ways to enhance bilateral cooperation in healthcare, digital innovation, and investment in the pharmaceutical industry.
According to Saudi Press Agency, during the meeting, both sides affirmed their commitment to strengthening health ties between the two countries and opening new horizons for cooperation. Al-Jalajel noted that the Kingdom's healthcare sector is undergoing a qualitative transformation under Vision 2030, with a focus on prevention, patient empowerment, and value-based care.
He pointed out that the Saudi pharmaceutical and biotechnology market, valued at more than $9 billion, represents a promising opportunity for strategic partnerships with Australia. Trade in healthcare products between the two countries accounted for 14 percent of the Kingdom's total imports from Australia in 2024.
He also highlighted the Kingdom's leadership in digital health, including the launch of the world's largest virtual hospital, which has provided over 50 million consultations. He stressed that cooperation with Australia contributes to accelerating the global adoption of virtual healthcare technologies and building a more efficient, high-quality, and sustainable healthcare future.
Al-Jalajel also held a meeting with Secretary of the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing and Chair of the World Health Organization Executive Board Blair Comley. They reviewed the council's priorities, including digital healthcare transformation and workforce sustainability. The minister emphasized that the Kingdom's appointment as Vice President of the WHO Executive Council for 2025-2028 reflects its commitment to supporting international efforts to strengthen global health systems, prepare for pandemics, and ensure equitable access to medical innovations.
The visit also included a roundtable discussion between the Kingdom's Ministry of Health and the Australian Department of Health, Disability and Ageing to explore cooperation in digital expertise exchange and the achievement of sustainable healthcare.